Step 1: Create the Waistband

• Start with a foundation single crochet chain (preferred over a regular chain for its elasticity). This ensures the skirt fits snugly around the waist and easily slides over the hips.
• Demonstrated with zoomed-in details, including instructions for slip knots and chaining.
• Create an appropriate length (e.g., 80 chains, depending on size), ensuring it stretches enough to slide over the hips while feeling snug around the waist.

Step 2: Double Crochet Mesh Layer

• Add a double crochet mesh stitch layer to the waistband. This layer creates a sturdy structure and adds elasticity and cinching properties.
• The tutor highlights the importance of using an even number of chains for a neat join.

Step 3: Lemon Peel Stitch Panel (First Skirt Tier)

• The first tier of the skirt is created using the lemon peel stitch by alternating single and double crochets.
• Start with an odd number of chains (e.g., 27 chains), working into the backs of stitches for a neat seam.
• The panel is joined to the waistband using slip stitches. Tension is kept tight to avoid gaps at the seams.

Step 4: Ruffled Tier

• The second tier adds ruffles to the bottom of the first panel to create a flared, flowy look.
• Work multiple rows of lemon peel stitch (2–3 rows for every row on the previous skirt tier) for added volume and flare.
• Ruffles are connected to the bottom tier using tight slip stitches to avoid gaps.

Step 5: Seaming the Skirt

• The side panels are joined using slip stitch seams. The seams are kept tight for clean edges.
• The tutor provides measurements, e.g., ~12 inches waist width (flat) and ~24 inches for ruffled width.

Step 6: Braided Chain Tie

• A braided chain is created (~52 inches long) to weave into the double crochet mesh waistband for added cinching to combat stretching from wear.
• The chain is woven manually into the mesh layer for a clean, secure finish.

Final Product and Styling

• The skirt can be worn with the matching top or styled separately. When worn together, it functions as a dress with cohesive stitch orientation.

Special Features

1. Elasticity of Waistband: The foundation single crochet chain ensures the waistband stretches comfortably while retaining shape.
2. Vertical Stitch Orientation: A unique design approach allows stitches to flow vertically, achieving the desired flared cut without horizontal rows.
3. Ruffled Effect: The integration of multiple rows per bottom stitch creates elegant ruffles for a fashionable silhouette.
4. Matching Set: Designed as part of a set with the "LRA Top", providing versatility.
5. Customizable Design: Adjust lengths and widths to tailor the skirt to individual preferences.

Level of Difficulty

• Beginner–Intermediate Friendly:
  While the tutorial uses relatively simple stitches (single, double crochet, lemon peel stitch), it involves techniques like the foundation single crochet and slip stitch joins, which might be new to beginners but are well-demonstrated. The project is approachable with careful attention to measurements and stitch patterns.

Tutor’s Suggestions

• Elasticity Matters: Use the foundation single crochet chain instead of a regular chain for the waistband’s elasticity.
• Count Carefully: Use an even number of stitches for the double crochet mesh and odd chains for the lemon peel stitch to maintain neat edges.
• Test Fit Often: Try the skirt on at multiple stages to ensure a snug fit.
• Tighter Seams: Keep tension tight for slip stitches to avoid noticeable gaps.

Final Tip

To avoid miscounting stitches (especially for beginners), always pause to read your work. For example, a clumpy stitch indicates a double crochet, and a smoother one signals a single crochet. This can help maintain the lemon peel stitch sequence and consistent rows.

This tutorial not only teaches crocheting but focuses on making a beautifully tailored skirt that combines creativity and practical design features.