Creating a sewing pattern for athletic shorts is a great way to customize your sportswear. Here's a simple guide to help you get started:
Materials needed:
- Fabric of your choice (preferably a stretchy and breathable fabric like athletic knit or performance fabric)
- Elastic band
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Iron
Step 1: Taking measurements
- Measure your waist circumference and write down this measurement as "A."
- Measure the desired length of the shorts from your waist to the desired hemline and write down this measurement as "B."
- Measure the desired width of the shorts at the hip level and write down this measurement as "C."
- Measure the desired inseam length, which is the length from the crotch to the desired hemline, and write down this measurement as "D."
Step 2: Cutting the fabric
- Fold your fabric in half with the right sides together.
- Using your measurements, mark and cut out two rectangles of fabric with the following dimensions:
- Width: (C/2) + 2 inches (for seam allowance)
- Length: (B + D) + 2 inches (for seam allowance)
- For example, if your hip width is 20 inches, you would cut two rectangles that are 12 inches wide (10 + 2 inches) and the desired length plus inseam length plus 2 inches.
Step 3: Sewing the shorts
- With the right sides of the fabric together, pin the sides of the fabric rectangles together.
- Using a sewing machine, stitch along the pinned edges, leaving a ½ inch seam allowance.
- Backstitch at the beginning and end of the seams to secure them.
- Press open the seams with an iron to give them a neat finish.
- Fold the top edge of the shorts down by 1 inch and press with an iron. Then fold it down by another 1 inch and press again to create a casing for the elastic band.
- Sew along the folded edge, leaving a small opening to insert the elastic band.
- Measure and cut the elastic band to fit your waist measurement (A), adding an extra inch for overlap.
- Insert the elastic band into the casing using a safety pin, and sew the ends of the elastic band together.
- Close the opening in the casing by sewing it shut.
- Hem the bottom edge of the shorts by folding the fabric under ½ inch and then another ½ inch. Pin in place and sew along the folded edge.
Step 4: Finishing touches
- Try on the shorts and make any necessary adjustments to the length or fit.
- You can customize your athletic shorts further by adding pockets, contrasting side panels, or decorative topstitching.
Remember, this is a basic guide to creating an athletic shorts sewing pattern. Feel free to modify the measurements and design to suit your preferences and style. Enjoy sewing your own personalized athletic shorts!
