In this tutorial, I will guide you through the process of making your own pants from scratch. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewist, this step-by-step guide will help you create a custom pair of pants that fit you perfectly. Let's get started!
Materials Needed:
Fabric of your choice (denim, cotton, linen, etc.)
Sewing machine
Thread
Scissors
Pins
Measuring tape
Marking tool (chalk or fabric pen)
Iron
Button or snap fasteners
Zipper (optional)
Pants pattern (commercial pattern or self-drafted)
Step 1: Take Accurate Measurements
Measure your waist, hips, inseam, and desired length for the pants. Refer to a measurement guide on your pattern if needed. These measurements will ensure a well-fitted pair of pants.
Step 2: Create a Pattern
You can either use a commercial pants pattern or draft your own using your measurements. If using a commercial pattern, follow the instructions included. If drafting your own pattern, use the method of cloning your clothes. If you don't have a pattern find a pair of pants that fit you perfectly and that are not stretchy.
Step 3: Prepare the Fabric
Lay your fabric flat on a clean flat surface. Make sure the fabric is wrinkle-free. Fold it in half with the right sides facing each other, aligning the selvages. Place your pattern pieces on top and pin them or add whaits to the fabric. If using a pair of pants fold them in half wrinkle free and and place them on the fabric. Make the pants folded so they look like there's only one leg.
Step 4: Cut Out the Fabric
Using sharp fabric scissors, carefully cut along the outline of the pattern pieces. Take your time to ensure precise cutting, especially at curves and corners. If you're more experienced I recommend using a rotary cutter.
Step 5: Sew the Pants Together
Start by sewing the front and back pant pieces together at the inseam. With the right sides facing, align the edges and pin them in place. Stitch along the pinned edge using a straight stitch and finish the seam using a serger or a zigzag stitch. The inseam is is the inside seam from the crotch to the ankle.
Step 6: Lineup both legs together and sew the crotch seem from the front to the back. Show it in the same way you did step 5.
Step 7: Sew the Side Seams
Fold the pants in half, aligning the side seams, and pin them together. Sew the side seams from the waist to the ankel, making sure to match the raw edges. Finish the seam allowances as before.
Step 8: Create a Waistband
Fold the top edge of the pants over by about 1 inch (2.5 cm) towards the wrong side and press it with an iron. Fold it again by the same amount, enclosing the raw edge, and press it again. Pin the waistband in place, leaving a small opening for inserting the elastic or drawstring. After inserting them sew the opening closed. With the elastic make sure to sew both ends together so that it'll be stretchy the whole way around. With the draw string hand stitch around the opening so that way the fabric will not for a later. Another easy way to do this is to create two button holes where the draw strings will poke through the fabric. Do this before folding and creating the wasteband.
Step 9: Hem the Pants
Try on the pants and determine the desired length. Fold the bottom edge of each pant leg twice towards the wrong side, creating a neat hem. Pin it in place and sew along the folded edge.
Step 10: Add Closures (Optional)
To add a zipper to a pair of pants, you'll need a few essential materials: a zipper, a seam ripper, pins, a sewing machine, thread, and a needle. Start by carefully removing the old seam around the zipper area with the seam ripper. Then, align the zipper face down with the opening and pin it securely in place. Using a zipper foot on your sewing machine, sew one side, and then the other, ensuring a snug fit. Secure the bottom stop of the zipper with a few stitches. Fold the fabric over the zipper and sew the top end neatly. Hand-stitch any remaining gaps for a polished look. Trim excess fabric and thread, and test the zipper to ensure it functions smoothly. Finally, press the seams to complete the process, and you'll have successfully added a zipper to your pants.
Step 11: Finishing Touches
Remove any visible basting stitches or loose threads. Give your pants a final press with an iron, ensuring all seams lie flat and the hems are crisp. Congratulations! You've successfully made your own pants. Try them on, make adjustments if necessary, and enjoy wearing your custom-made creation. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect. With time and experience, you'll refine your skills and create pants that fit you flawlessly. Happy sewing!