DIY Shorts: Creating A Sewing Pattern From Scratch

Oct 29, 2025 by Admin 51 views

Hey everyone! Are you ready to dive into the world of DIY fashion and learn how to make a sewing pattern for shorts? Making your own shorts is a fantastic way to personalize your wardrobe, save some cash, and show off your unique style. Trust me, it's not as scary as it sounds! This guide will walk you through the entire process, from taking measurements to cutting and sewing your first pair of custom shorts. So, grab your materials, and let's get started.

Gathering Your Materials: What You'll Need

Before we jump into the fun stuff, let's gather all the essential materials. Having everything ready will make the process much smoother.

Fabric: Choose your fabric wisely! Cotton, linen, denim, and even some knit fabrics work great for shorts. Consider the drape and weight of the fabric based on the style of shorts you want to create. For beginners, a stable woven fabric like cotton or linen is usually the easiest to work with. Make sure you have enough fabric, considering the pattern layout and the size of your shorts. I usually buy a bit extra, just in case! Don’t forget to pre-wash your fabric to avoid shrinkage after you’ve sewn your shorts. I cannot stress this enough – it's a super important step!
Paper for Pattern Making: You'll need large sheets of paper to create your pattern. Brown paper, pattern paper, or even newspaper will work in a pinch. The paper needs to be large enough to accommodate the full pattern pieces for your shorts. A good rule of thumb is to have at least a meter of paper in both directions. When it comes to pattern making, a lot of people like to use pattern paper or kraft paper. However, it's totally okay to use other materials you have on hand, like the back of wrapping paper or even newspapers. Just make sure the paper is strong enough and large enough to draw your pattern pieces.
Ruler and Measuring Tape: A clear ruler, a hip curve or french curve and a flexible measuring tape are your best friends. These tools are crucial for accurate measurements and drawing smooth lines. Ensure your measuring tape is flexible and made of good material that won’t stretch or tear easily. These tools help you transfer your body measurements accurately to the paper, allowing you to create a perfect-fitting pattern. A flexible measuring tape is used for taking body measurements. Be sure to measure comfortably, not too tight, as this may result in an ill-fitting garment. A clear ruler or a hip curve is also essential for shaping the pattern, specifically when drawing curves, such as the crotch curve.
Pencil and Eraser: You'll need a sharp pencil for drawing your pattern and an eraser to correct any mistakes. A soft lead pencil is easier to erase than a hard lead pencil. Keep your pencil sharp for accurate lines. Erasing is a necessary part of the pattern-making process, so make sure you have a good eraser on hand to clean up lines and make corrections.
Scissors or Rotary Cutter: Sharp scissors or a rotary cutter with a cutting mat will be used for cutting out the pattern pieces and the fabric. If you’re using scissors, make sure they are fabric-only scissors to keep them sharp and accurate. A rotary cutter can be faster and more precise, especially for cutting straight lines. When using a rotary cutter, always use a cutting mat to protect your work surface. Ensure your scissors are designed specifically for fabric. This will prevent fraying, and give you much better precision when cutting. A rotary cutter can speed up the process. A cutting mat is essential to protect your work surface and to get clean, precise cuts.
Pins: Pins will hold your fabric and pattern pieces together while cutting and sewing. Use plenty of pins to keep everything in place. Pins are invaluable for holding fabric layers together when cutting or sewing. Use a sufficient number to keep the fabric from shifting, which can impact the accuracy of your cutting or sewing. Ensure you have plenty of pins on hand, and that they’re sharp and rust-free.
Sewing Machine and Thread: You’ll need a sewing machine and thread that matches your fabric. Choose a strong, color-coordinated thread for the best results. Make sure your sewing machine is in good working order and that you're familiar with its basic functions. Ensure that your thread is of good quality and matches the color of your fabric. This way, your seams will be strong and the final product will look polished.
Additional Notions: You might also need things like elastic, a zipper, buttons, or other embellishments, depending on the shorts design you choose. Elastic will be needed if you’re making shorts with an elastic waistband. If your design includes pockets or any other detail, gather the relevant notions beforehand to ensure everything goes smoothly during the sewing stage.

Taking Accurate Measurements for Your Shorts

Okay, before you make a sewing pattern for shorts, the most crucial step is taking accurate body measurements. This is the foundation of a well-fitting garment. Grab your measuring tape and follow these steps:

Waist Measurement: Measure around your natural waistline. This is usually the narrowest part of your torso, and it’s where your shorts' waistband will sit. Keep the tape measure level and snug, but not too tight. Make sure to keep the measuring tape parallel to the floor for an accurate measurement.
Hip Measurement: Measure around the fullest part of your hips. This is usually around your glutes. Ensure the tape measure is level and parallel to the floor. The hip measurement is particularly important for the fit and the ease of movement in the shorts.
Crotch Depth: Sit on a flat surface and measure from your waist to the surface you are sitting on. This measurement determines the length of the crotch seam. This measurement determines how deep the crotch is, which is a key factor in the fit of your shorts. It’s important to sit on a flat surface when taking this measurement to get the most accurate result.
Thigh Circumference: Measure around your thigh at the point where you want the shorts to fit. This measurement will help determine the width of the shorts at the leg opening. Use this measurement to ensure the shorts leg openings will be comfortable and not too tight.
Inseam: Measure from your crotch to the desired length of your shorts. This is the distance along the inside of your leg. Make sure you decide the length you like so you can use this as your guide when cutting the fabric. You can measure from an existing pair of shorts for this. Your inseam measurement is the length of the shorts from the crotch to the hem. Decide where you would like the shorts to end and measure accordingly.
Outseam: Measure from your waist to the desired length of your shorts on the outside of your leg. This measurement can be used as a guide to ensure your shorts have the length you’re looking for. This is another measurement that will allow you to determine the overall length of your shorts. Use this to ensure the shorts have the length you’re looking for. Make sure your tape measure is straight and not tilted.

Record all your measurements in a notebook or on a piece of paper. Double-check them to ensure accuracy. If you’re making shorts for someone else, always have them assist with the measuring process for the most accurate results.

Creating the Basic Shorts Pattern

Now, let's get into the core of how to make a sewing pattern for shorts! We’ll create a basic pattern that you can customize later. We'll start with the front and back pattern pieces separately, and then you can modify them according to your preferences.

Drafting the Front Pattern Piece

Draw a Rectangle: Start by drawing a rectangle. The width of the rectangle is equal to your hip measurement divided by 2, plus ease (usually 1-2 inches). The height of the rectangle is equal to your crotch depth measurement, plus the desired length of your shorts, plus seam allowance (usually 1 inch). For a more relaxed fit, increase the ease. The ease you include will directly affect the fit of your shorts. For beginners, a bit more ease is always recommended.
Mark the Waist and Hip Lines: On the side seam of the rectangle, measure down from the top edge to your waist measurement. Mark this point and draw a horizontal line across the rectangle – this is your waistline. Then, from the waistline, measure down to your hip measurement, and draw another horizontal line – this is your hipline.
Shape the Crotch Curve: At the top of the rectangle, measure in from the side seam a distance equal to your waist measurement divided by 4, plus 1 inch. Connect this point to the bottom corner of the rectangle on the side seam using a gentle curve. This creates the crotch curve. Use a hip curve or freehand to round out the crotch curve. This is a crucial step in giving the shorts a comfortable fit around the crotch area.
Shape the Leg Opening: Measure in from the bottom corner of the rectangle on the side seam a distance equal to your thigh circumference divided by 2, plus ease (again, usually 1-2 inches). Connect this point to the crotch curve with a smooth line. Use a ruler or a hip curve to create a slightly curved leg opening.
Add the Waistband: Decide how wide you want your waistband to be, and add that amount to the top of your pattern piece. This additional width is added to the top of the pattern to accommodate the waistband, which could be anything from a simple folded band to a more elaborate design.
Add Seam Allowance: Add seam allowance (usually 1 inch) around all edges of the pattern piece. Add seam allowance for all the edges of the pattern piece to allow for the seams.

Drafting the Back Pattern Piece

The back pattern piece is very similar to the front, but with a few key differences:

Draw a Rectangle: Draw a rectangle that is the same width as your front pattern piece, and the same height (crotch depth + desired length + seam allowance). Ensure the width of your rectangle matches the front pattern piece. This will ensure both the front and back pieces are the same width, which will enable you to sew your shorts more easily.
Mark the Waist and Hip Lines: Mark your waist and hip lines, just as you did on the front pattern piece. These lines help define the shape of your shorts. Use the same measurements as the front pattern piece for consistency.
Shape the Crotch Curve: The back crotch curve is deeper than the front. At the top of the rectangle, measure in from the side seam a distance equal to your waist measurement divided by 4, plus 2 inches (or more, depending on your desired fit). Connect this point to the bottom corner of the rectangle on the side seam using a gentle curve. Shape the back crotch curve more generously than the front to accommodate the wearer's backside. Use a hip curve to smooth out this curve.
Shape the Leg Opening: The leg opening can be the same as the front or slightly wider. Measure in from the bottom corner of the rectangle on the side seam a distance equal to your thigh circumference divided by 2, plus ease (usually 1-2 inches). Connect this point to the crotch curve with a smooth line. Make sure to keep the leg opening similar to the front pattern piece, or adjust as desired. Using a ruler or a hip curve will make this easier.
Add the Waistband: Add your desired waistband height to the top of your pattern piece. Determine the desired waistband height before adding it to the top. This will need to match the size you chose for your front pattern piece.
Add Seam Allowance: Add seam allowance around all edges, just like the front piece. Add the same amount of seam allowance to the back pattern piece for the seams.

Cutting and Sewing Your Shorts

Once your pattern pieces are ready, it's time to cut the fabric and start sewing. This is where your sewing pattern for shorts comes to life!

Cutting the Fabric

Pin the Pattern to the Fabric: Lay your fabric flat, and place the pattern pieces on top. Pin the pattern pieces securely to the fabric, making sure the grainline of the pattern is aligned with the grainline of the fabric. Use plenty of pins to hold the pattern pieces in place. Be very careful to align the grainline of your pattern with the grain of the fabric. This is crucial for the drape and fit of your shorts. Ensure that the fabric is smooth and free from any wrinkles. Pin the pattern pieces down securely so they won't shift while cutting.
Cut Out the Fabric Pieces: Carefully cut out the fabric pieces along the edges of the pattern, following the seam allowance. Use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter. Cut along the edges of the pattern pieces with precision. Use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter to ensure clean cuts. Double-check that you've cut out all the necessary pattern pieces. Ensure you cut accurately along the pattern lines. Make sure you cut around the pattern pieces, following the pattern lines, and the seam allowances. You will need one pair of the front piece and two pairs of the back piece if you are using a two-piece back pattern.
Transfer Markings: Transfer any notches or markings from the pattern pieces to the fabric using tailor's chalk, pins, or a fabric marker. Make sure the markings are clear so you can use them as a guide during sewing. Transfer any notches and markings from the pattern to the fabric. These markings are essential for aligning the fabric pieces correctly when you start to sew.

Sewing the Shorts

Sew the Front and Back Pieces Together: With right sides together, sew the front and back pieces together along the side seams and the crotch seam. This creates the basic shape of your shorts. Match the notches and pin the fabric together before sewing. Pin the pieces together with the right sides facing. Make sure all the edges are lined up properly. Pinning carefully will ensure that your seams are aligned correctly. Sew the front and back pieces together along the side seams and the inseam, right sides together. Use a straight stitch. Use a straight stitch with a matching thread color.
Sew the Waistband: Attach the waistband according to your chosen design. You can use elastic, a zipper, or other closures. If using elastic, measure your waist and cut the elastic to the correct length. Attach the elastic to the shorts. Sew the waistband to the shorts, ensuring it's evenly distributed. If you’re using a traditional waistband, attach the waistband pieces to the shorts. Fold and sew the waistband to enclose the raw edge.
Hem the Leg Openings: Finish the leg openings with a hem. You can fold the fabric over and sew it, or use a rolled hem technique for a clean finish. Finish the leg openings with a hem for a polished look. Iron the hem, then fold the fabric over to the inside and sew it in place. Fold the hem and press with an iron. Secure with pins. Then sew a straight stitch to finish. This gives your shorts a neat, professional finish. You could also do a rolled hem for a more professional finish.
Add Finishing Touches: Add any pockets, belt loops, or other details as desired. Iron your finished shorts, and admire your hard work! Add pockets, belt loops, and other details. Use a good iron and ironing board to give the shorts a crisp, neat look. Ironing your shorts will help them look their best. Give your shorts a final press to get rid of any wrinkles. Check the fit of your shorts to be sure they fit just the way you want them to. Take a look at your creation – you should be so proud of what you've created! If you're happy with the results, celebrate!

Tips and Tricks for Success

Here are some extra tips and tricks to ensure your DIY shorts project is a success:

Start Simple: If you're a beginner, start with a basic shorts design. Once you get the hang of it, you can move on to more complex styles.
Use the Right Tools: Using the right tools will make the process easier and more enjoyable. Make sure you have good quality tools.
Take Your Time: Sewing takes patience. Don't rush the process, and enjoy the journey.
Make a Mock-Up: Before cutting into your final fabric, consider making a mock-up of your shorts from inexpensive fabric to check the fit and make any necessary adjustments.
Read the Instructions: Always read the instructions carefully before starting, and refer to them throughout the process.
Ask for Help: Don't hesitate to ask for help from friends, family, or online resources if you get stuck.

Conclusion: You Can Do It!

Learning how to make a sewing pattern for shorts might seem intimidating at first, but with patience and practice, anyone can do it! Embrace the learning process, don't be afraid to make mistakes, and most importantly, have fun! Sewing your own shorts is a rewarding experience. It gives you the chance to express your creativity. Enjoy the process. Now go out there and create the perfect pair of shorts!