Creating boyshorts is a fun and relatively simple sewing project. Here's a basic sewing pattern to make boyshorts:
Materials:
- Stretchy knit fabric (e.g., cotton jersey, spandex) - about 1/2 to 1 yard, depending on size
- Matching thread
- Sewing machine
- Scissors
- Pins
- Elastic (3/8 to 1/2 inch wide)
- Safety pin
Instructions:
- Take Measurements:
- Measure the circumference of your hips where the boyshorts will sit, as well as the length from your waist to where you want the boyshorts to end.
- Draft the Pattern:
- To create a pattern for your boyshorts, you'll need two main pieces: the front and back.
- For the front piece, draw a rectangle with a width equal to half your hip circumference plus seam allowance and a length equal to your desired length plus seam allowance.
- For the back piece, draw another rectangle with the same width as the front piece and a length that's longer by a few inches to accommodate the seat area. The extra length will create a slight curve.
- Cut the Fabric:
- Fold your stretchy knit fabric in half with the right sides facing each other.
- Place your pattern pieces on the fabric and pin them in place.
- Cut around the pattern pieces, allowing for seam allowances (usually 1/4 inch).
- Sew the Crotch Seam:
- With the right sides facing each other, sew the crotch seam of both the front and back pieces.
- Attach the Front and Back:
- With the right sides facing each other, sew the side seams to join the front and back pieces.
- Hem the Leg Openings:
- Fold the leg openings inward by about 1/2 inch and sew to create a clean edge.
- Sew the Elastic Waistband:
- Measure a piece of elastic to fit comfortably around your waist. Overlap the ends by about 1 inch and sew them together to form a loop.
- Divide the elastic and the top of the boyshorts into quarters and mark these points.
- With the boyshorts right side out, pin the elastic to the waistband of the boyshorts at these quarter points.
- Sew the elastic to the boyshorts with a zigzag stitch, stretching the elastic to fit as you sew.
- Finish the Waistband:
- Fold the elastic and the waistband over to the inside of the boyshorts. Topstitch the waistband in place.
- Try Them On:
- Try on your new boyshorts to ensure they fit comfortably.
This basic boyshort pattern can be customized with different fabrics, colors, and embellishments. It's important to choose a stretchy knit fabric for comfort and flexibility. Feel free to adjust measurements based on your body size and personal preferences.
