1. Cut the Fabric for the Ruffle. Prepare Your Needle and Thread

• Determine the length and width of your ruffle. The length should be at least twice the length of the edge you are attaching it to for a full ruffle. The width depends on how deep you want the ruffle to be, plus seam allowances.
• Cut the fabric strip to your desired dimensions. For example, if you need a 3-inch deep ruffle with a 1/2 inch seam allowance, cut the strip 7 inches wide (3 inches x 2 + 1 inch for seam allowances).

2. Finish the Edges

• To prevent fraying, finish the raw edges of your fabric strip. You can use a serger, zigzag stitch, or pinking shears.
• Alternatively, you can hem one long edge of the strip if it will be visible in the final garment. Fold the edge 1/4 inch, press, fold again 1/4 inch, and stitch close to the fold.

3.Mark the Ruffle Fabric

• Divide the length of the fabric strip into quarters or more segments and mark with pins or fabric chalk. This helps to evenly distribute the gathers.

4. Sew Gathering Stitches

• Set your sewing machine to a long straight stitch (basting stitch). The stitch length should be at its maximum setting.
• Sew two parallel rows of basting stitches along the long edge that will be gathered, within the seam allowance (e.g., 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch from the edge).
• Leave long thread tails at the beginning and end of your stitching.

5. Gather the Fabric

• Anchor one end of the threads by tying them together or holding them firmly.
• Gently pull the bobbin threads (the lower threads) from the opposite end, sliding the fabric along the threads to create gathers.
• Distribute the gathers evenly along the strip, adjusting as needed to match the length of the edge you are attaching the ruffle to.

6. Pin the Ruffle to the Garment

• Pin the gathered edge of the ruffle to the edge of your garment, right sides together, aligning raw edges.
• Match the quarter marks on the ruffle with the corresponding marks on the garment to ensure even distribution.

7. Sew the Ruffle to the Garment

• With the ruffle and garment pinned together, sew along the gathered edge using a regular stitch length, within the seam allowance.
• Sew between the two rows of basting stitches for a secure attachment.

8. Remove Basting Stitches

• Carefully remove the visible basting stitches. You can pull them out gently or use a seam ripper if necessary.

9. Finish the Seam

• Finish the seam allowance with a zigzag stitch, serger, or pinking shears to prevent fraying.
• Press the seam allowance towards the garment, ensuring the ruffle lies flat and even.