Last Updated on August 21, 2023
Sewing Patterns for Sweatpants: Welcome to another sewing tutorial! Here in this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through creating your very own sweatpants with a drawstring elastic waistband and side pockets. Whether you’re a sewing enthusiast or a beginner looking to craft cozy loungewear, this tutorial has got you covered.
DIY Sewing patterns for sweatpants
Let’s dive in and learn how to make stylish and comfortable sweatpants from scratch.
Materials Needed
- Heathered gray sweatshirt fleece (medium weight)
- Craft paper
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Elastic for waistband
- Interfacing
- Safety pins or Bodkin
- Seam ripper
- Drawstring material (cotton cord or ribbon)
Pattern Creation
Prepare Your Fabric
Lay out your fabric on a flat surface. Make sure the brushed, soft side is facing up, as this will be the interior of the sweatpants.
Creating the Pattern
If you don’t have a pre-made sweatpants pattern, you can clone an existing pair that you like the shape of. Adjust it for fit if necessary, and cut out two front pieces and two back pieces from the fabric.
Pockets
Cut out two sets of pocket pieces. Each pocket should be about seven inches long on the non-curved side, big enough to fit your hand comfortably. Sew the pocket pieces onto the front side of the fabric, aligning them about 2.5 inches down from the waistband.
Stitching the Outer Leg
Sew down the outer leg of each pattern piece, making sure to sew over the pocket area. Fold the pockets over to the wrong side of the fabric and do a top stitch to secure them in place.
Sewing the Pants Together
Pin the two front pieces together and the two back pieces together. Sew down the crotch seam lines to join the front and back pieces together.
Inner Leg Seam
Open up the fabric and pin the crotch seam lines inside the leg. Sew the inner leg seam right sides together.
Creating the Waistband
- Cutting the Waistband: Cut a waistband that matches the length of the pants and has a width suitable for the elastic you plan to use.
- Marking Elastic Placement: Find the middle of the waistband and mark it on the outside. Using the elastic width as a guide, mark where you’ll place the drawstring holes. Add interfacing to reinforce this area and create two small holes for the drawstring.
- Sewing the Waistband: Fold the waistband in half and sew it down the side. Open it up and iron it to reduce bulk.
- Attaching the Elastic: Attach the elastic to one end of the waistband and thread it through the waistband casing using a Bodkin or safety pin. Sew the ends of the elastic together securely.
- Top Stitching for Drawstring: Sew two parallel rows of stitches along the waistband, creating a channel for the drawstring. Pull the elastic slightly as you sew to keep the fabric smooth.
- Attaching the Waistband: Match up the waistband’s front, back, and side points with the pants’ corresponding points. Attach the waistband to the pants, stretching the elastic slightly while sewing to ensure a snug fit.
Finishing Touches
- Adding the Drawstring: Thread the drawstring through the holes you created in the waistband. Burn the ends slightly to prevent fraying.
- Hemming the Bottom: Finish the pants by hemming the bottom. Serge, the edge, fold it over, and then sew it in place using a twin needle or two rows of stitches.
- Final Fit and Enjoy: Your homemade sweatpants are now complete! Try them on and adjust the drawstring for the perfect fit. Enjoy your cozy, stylish creation!
Conclusion
Congratulations on making your own pair of sweatpants with a drawstring elastic waistband and side pockets! This tutorial guided you through the step-by-step process, helping you create comfortable loungewear uniquely yours. Experiment with different fabrics and colors to craft a variety of sweatpants to suit your style. Happy sewing!
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