How to Make Pattern for Shorts: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating a pattern for shorts is a great way to customize your clothing and save money. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewist, following a step-by-step guide can help you achieve the perfect fit and style. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making a pattern for shorts, from gathering the necessary materials to cutting and sewing the final product.
Materials and Tools
Before you start, gather the following materials and tools:
– Fabric: Choose a durable and comfortable fabric, such as cotton or denim.
– Pattern paper: Use a large sheet of paper or a pattern-making roll.
– Fabric scissors: Ensure you have sharp scissors for clean cuts.
– Ruler: A large ruler will help you measure and draw accurate lines.
– Pencil: A fine-point, permanent pencil is best for drawing the pattern.
– Pattern weights: These will help keep your pattern paper in place while cutting.
– Seam ripper: This tool is useful for making adjustments or fixing mistakes.
– Pins: Use pins to hold the pattern to the fabric and mark notches.
Step 1: Measure Your Body
To create a pattern that fits you perfectly, it’s essential to measure your body. Here are the measurements you’ll need:
– Hip circumference: Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
– Waist circumference: Measure around your natural waist, where you bend.
– Inseam: Measure from the top of your crotch to the desired hem length of your shorts.
– Outseam: Measure from the side seam of your shorts to the hem.
Step 2: Draft the Basic Pattern
Now that you have your measurements, it’s time to draft the basic pattern. Follow these steps:
1. Draw a horizontal line on your pattern paper, representing the waistline. Mark the midpoint as the center back.
2. From the center back, measure and mark the waist circumference, dividing it in half to find the center front.
3. Draw a vertical line from the center front to the bottom of the waistline, representing the side seam.
4. Measure and mark the hip circumference, dividing it in half to find the center front hip.
5. Connect the center front hip to the bottom of the waistline, creating a curved line to represent the front leg seam.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for the back leg seam, starting from the center back hip.
7. Draw a straight line from the bottom of the waistline to the desired hem length, representing the inseam.
Step 3: Add Seam Allowances and Notches
To account for seam allowances, add 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) to all sides of the pattern. Also, add notches at the points where the pattern curves, such as the hip and inseam, to indicate where the fabric needs to be cut on the bias.
Step 4: Cut the Pattern
Place the pattern on your fabric, making sure the grainline is aligned with the selvage. Use pattern weights to hold the pattern in place and cut along the lines with fabric scissors.
Step 5: Make Adjustments and Sew Your Shorts
After cutting the pattern, try on the shorts to see if they fit. Make any necessary adjustments to the pattern and then cut and sew your shorts according to your chosen pattern or instructions.
By following this guide, you’ll be able to create a custom pattern for shorts that fit your body perfectly. Happy sewing!
