How to Make a Pattern for Pants
Creating a pattern for pants is an essential skill for anyone interested in custom clothing or fashion design. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewist, understanding how to draft a pattern for pants can help you create a garment that fits perfectly and meets your specific style requirements. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a pattern for pants, from gathering the necessary materials to cutting and sewing the final product.
Materials and Tools
Before you start, gather the following materials and tools:
– Pattern paper: This can be purchased at a fabric store or you can use a large roll of newsprint or kraft paper.
– Fabric scissors: Use sharp, fabric-cutting scissors to ensure clean cuts.
– Ruler: A large, clear ruler is essential for precise measurements.
– Pattern chalk or a fabric pen: These tools allow you to mark your pattern paper without damaging it.
– Measuring tape: To take accurate body measurements.
– Pins: To hold your pattern in place while cutting and sewing.
Body Measurements
To create a pattern that fits well, you’ll need to take several body measurements. These include:
– Waist circumference: Measure around the narrowest part of your waist.
– Hip circumference: Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
– Thigh circumference: Measure around the fullest part of your thigh.
– inseam: Measure from the crotch to the desired hem length.
– rise: Measure from the waist to the crotch.
Write down these measurements to use when drafting your pattern.
Drafting the Pattern
Now that you have your measurements, you can start drafting the pattern. Follow these steps:
1. Draw a vertical line on your pattern paper to represent the center back line.
2. Measure and mark the waist, hip, and thigh circumference points on the center back line.
3. Draw a horizontal line across the center back line to represent the waistline.
4. Measure and mark the rise and inseam lengths on the waistline.
5. Connect the waist, hip, and thigh circumference points with curved lines to create the side seam.
6. Add darts or pleats as needed to adjust the fit.
Cutting and Sewing
Once you have your pattern, you can cut it out and use it to cut your fabric. Follow these steps:
1. Lay your fabric flat and place the pattern on top.
2. Align the pattern with the selvages and grainline, if applicable.
3. Cut out the pattern pieces, adding seam allowances as needed.
4. Pin the pattern pieces together and sew them according to the instructions.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a custom pattern for pants that fits perfectly and showcases your unique style. Happy sewing!
