Are you ready to create the most comfortable pair of pants you’ll ever own? Welcome to our guide on making DIY sweatpants using a simple sewing pattern. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewer, this article will walk you through the process of crafting your very own custom-fit, stylish sweatpants with pockets and an elastic waistband.
Why Make Your Own Sweatpants?
Store-bought sweatpants are great, but nothing beats the comfort and satisfaction of wearing pants you’ve made yourself. With our easy-to-follow sewing pattern, you can create sweatpants that fit you perfectly and match your personal style. Plus, you’ll save money and have a fun project to boot!
Materials You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create your DIY sweatpants:
| Material | Amount |
|---|---|
| Medium-weight knit fabric | 2.5 meters (3 yards) |
| Interfacing strip (1.2 cm wide) | 40 cm |
| Elastic (4 cm wide) | 1 meter |
| Stretch fabric needle | 1 |
| Matching thread | 1 spool |
| Scissors | 1 pair |
| Pins | As needed |
You’ll also need a sewing machine and our Luna sweatpants pattern, which you can find in the link provided in the description.
Choosing the Right Fabric
The key to comfy sweatpants is choosing the right fabric. For this project, we recommend using a medium-weight knit fabric like sweater fleece or French terry. These fabrics offer the perfect balance of comfort, stretch, and durability.
Sweater fleece is ideal for cooler weather, while French terry works well for lighter, year-round wear. Remember to pre-wash your fabric to account for any shrinkage before you start sewing.
Preparing Your Pattern and Fabric
Once you have your materials ready, it’s time to prepare your pattern and fabric. Steam and press your fabric to ensure it’s smooth and ready for cutting. Lay out your pattern pieces and cut your fabric according to the instructions provided with the Luna sweatpants pattern.
Creating the Pockets
Let’s start with the pockets – after all, what’s a great pair of sweatpants without pockets? Here’s how to create them:
- Apply fusible interfacing to the pocket opening on the wrong side of the front piece.
- Place the pocket lining and pants right sides together, matching the pocket opening edges.
- Sew along the pocket opening, then trim the edge, leaving a 4mm seam allowance.
- Turn the pocket lining to the wrong side, overlapping the edge by 2-3mm.
- Press and cool with a clapper for a professional finish.
- For extra durability, add a topstitch around 4-5mm from the edge.
Assembling the Pants
Now that your pockets are ready, it’s time to put the pants together:
- Pin and sew the side seams and inseams.
- Press the seams, folding the allowances to the back of the leg.
- Turn one pant leg right side out and place it inside the other leg.
- Pin and sew the crotch seam, matching all marks.
Creating the Waistband
The waistband is what gives sweatpants their signature comfort. Here’s how to create it:
- Fold the waistband wrong sides together and sew the center seam, leaving an opening for the elastic.
- Fold in half lengthwise and press.
- Pin the waistband inside the pants, right sides together, matching the quarter marks.
- Sew and serge (if you have a serger) the waistband to the pants.
- Thread the elastic through the waistband opening.
- Sew the ends of the elastic and distribute the gathering evenly.
- Close the elastic opening by hand.
- Add two rows of stitching on the waistband for a professional look.
Adding the Cuffs
Cuffs give your sweatpants a polished finish. Here’s how to add them:
- Fold the cuff right sides together and sew the short side.
- Press the seam, then fold the cuff in half wrong sides together.
- Pin the cuff inside the leg opening, matching seams.
- Sew, stretching the cuff slightly but not the leg opening.
Final Touches
Give your sweatpants a final press, paying special attention to the seams. Use a clapper to cool and flatten the seams for a professional look.
FAQs
What stitch should I use for sweatpants?
For sweatpants, use stitches that stretch. A zigzag stitch works well for most seams. If you have a serger, an overlock stitch is great. Many machines have a stretch stitch option. For hems and topstitching, try a twin needle stitch. Always test on scrap fabric first.
How to sew elastic waistband on sweatpants?
First, create a casing by folding over the top edge. Sew the casing, leaving a small opening. Cut elastic to your waist size plus an inch. Thread it through using a safety pin. Overlap and sew the ends. Distribute gathers evenly. Close the opening. Stitch through all layers at side seams to prevent twisting.
How to sew pockets into sweatpants?
Cut pocket pieces from your fabric. Mark pocket placement on pants. Pin pocket pieces to the right side. Sew around the curved edge, leaving the top open. Flip the pocket inside and press. Topstitch around the opening for durability. This adds functionality to your DIY sweatpants.
How do you run string through sweatpants?
To add a drawstring, make buttonholes on the waistband front. Sew the waistband casing, leaving ends open. Cut drawstring to waist length plus 20 inches. Use a safety pin to thread it through. Tie knots at the ends to prevent fraying. This method allows for adjustable fit.
Enjoy Your New DIY Sweatpants!
Congratulations! You’ve just created your very own pair of custom, comfortable sweatpants. Not only will they fit you perfectly, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of wearing something you made yourself.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Don’t be discouraged if your first pair isn’t flawless – each pair you make will be better than the last. So why stop at one? Create a whole wardrobe of comfy, stylish sweatpants in different colors and fabrics.
Ready to start your DIY sweatpants journey? Grab your sewing machine, download our Luna sweatpants pattern, and get ready to enjoy the most comfortable pants you’ve ever worn. Happy sewing!
