How to Cut Shorts Pattern: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating your own shorts pattern can be a fun and rewarding project. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewer, knowing how to cut shorts pattern is essential for crafting your own custom shorts. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of creating a shorts pattern from scratch, ensuring that you end up with a perfect fit and style that suits your preferences.
1. Gather Your Materials
Before you start, gather all the necessary materials for creating your shorts pattern. You’ll need:
– A pair of well-fitting shorts to use as a template
– A ruler or measuring tape
– Fabric pencil or chalk
– Pattern paper or a large piece of paper
– Scissors
– A sewing machine (optional)
2. Measure and Trace the Template
Begin by measuring the length and width of the front and back of the shorts you’re using as a template. Place the shorts on the pattern paper and trace around them, leaving enough room for seam allowances. The standard seam allowance for shorts is typically 1/2 inch (1.27 cm), but you can adjust this according to your preference.
3. Create the Waistband Pattern
To create the waistband pattern, measure the circumference of the waistband on your template shorts. Add 1 inch (2.54 cm) for seam allowances and 1 inch (2.54 cm) for a casing. Divide the total circumference by 4 to find the width of the waistband pattern. Trace the waistband pattern on the pattern paper, ensuring that it’s long enough to cover the waist measurement.
4. Add the Crotch Curve
The crotch curve is an essential part of the shorts pattern, providing a comfortable fit. Measure the distance from the waist to the inseam on your template shorts. Draw a straight line from the waist to the inseam, then curve the line inward to create the crotch curve. Make sure the curve is smooth and even.
5. Cut Out the Pattern
Using scissors, carefully cut out the pattern pieces, including the front and back shorts, waistband, and crotch curve. Make sure to cut along the traced lines and include the seam allowances.
6. Assemble the Shorts
Now that you have your pattern pieces, it’s time to assemble the shorts. Lay out the fabric on a flat surface, and place the pattern pieces on top. Pin the pieces in place, ensuring that the edges align. Sew the pieces together, following the traced lines and seam allowances.
7. Hem the Shorts
Finally, hem the shorts by folding the bottom edge up by 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) and pressing. Then, fold it up again by another 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) and sew the hem in place. Repeat this process for both the front and back of the shorts.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully created your own shorts pattern and sewn a pair of custom shorts. Enjoy your new, perfectly fitting shorts and the satisfaction of making them yourself.
