That is exactly how you do it. Measure from the straight grain to the center and make the slit there so it is parallel with the straight grain.

First however decide how much fuller you want the skirt to be and divide that by 4--eg if you want it to be 2 inches bigger you would add 1/2 an inch to both fronts and both backs, so you have to alter the back and front pattern.

Cut the pattern completely in half to the top stitching line, Cutting through the center of the pattern. Spread it apart and add a piece to the desired width.

Oilpainter - thank you so much for your advice. I guess I wasn't as dumb as I felt I was. I am going to try this just as soon as I can get "snowed-out". The library did not have any material by Palmer-Pletsch as to sewing methods. I did get one by Sandra Betzina about fitting but it is old. I have one called Power Sewing by her that also helps. I appreciate your remarks.I am not even sure that the schools teach sewing any more. I know that the 4H club does, but it is not nearly as big as it used to be. Happy New Year and I hope that 2010 holds nothing but good for you. God Bless. Barb