I am so excited for this pattern! Kelly did such an amazing job and this is definitely a pattern I will be keeping in my stash! It includes both a shorts and a skirt version, in various lengths and in chino or jean style. There is also an awesome topstitching guide for the patch pockets! <3 So fun! Don’t be nervous with this pattern because the instructions are amazing!

You can find the pattern here! You can also get the pattern at a discount with a discount code in the Sew A Little Seam Facebook Group. It’s valid through September!

This is pattern is a relaxed fit. I’m right in between sizes so I was able to get away with sizing down in my stretch denim, but I did grade out my waist slightly, since the sized down waistband is far too snug. If you are using a non stretch woven in a version that doesn’t have a zipper, I would advise to not size down. At least for me, it’s a little harder to get it over my bum, ha.

It’s also always a good idea to make a muslin in a similar weight fabric before you cut into your pretty fabrics. That way you can make any necessary adjustments.

FABRIC!

Joann’s typically has some pretty cute stretch twill, which I think is perfect for these! And there usually is always a coupon of some sort. Hobby Lobby may have, but their selection will much smaller and will most likely depend on location.

So Sew English also has a small selection of denim and twill.

Raspberry Creek Fabrics has some denim as well.

NOTIONS!

Jean needle or a thicker stretch needle (90/14) if you are going to be sewing with thicker fabrics.

Top stitching thread or you can use 2 spools of the same color in the needle to give it the thicker topstitch look. (you can use a regular coordinating thread in the bobbin)

Jean button or a hook and eye closure.

Jean zipper

Rivets (optional but are a fun addition! Though I haven’t tried them yet. I have some, but I’m afraid of messing up and ruining my shorts!)

I think the best place to get notions at a good price is Wawak. They have a big selection and great prices. It’s just not as instant as driving to the store. But totally worth it! I just recently ordered a handful of jean zippers, a zipper for my next bomber jacket, and some hook and eye clasps.

Aside from the skirt and shorts versions, I also made a pair of elastic waist shorts in terry cloth! Perfect for the pool, beach and swim class! I cheated a tad with these. I didn’t want a lot of bulk in the pockets, so I used the pocket instructions for the knit version! (basically just topstitching the pocket in place.) And I just serged the pocket to the edge, so no turning and no bands. But I love them! These have the 5” inseam, except I still haven’t hemmed them.

I hope you love these as much as I do! Don’t forget to snag the pattern while the discount code is valid. If you run into any issues, you are welcome to let me know, as well as asking your questions on the FB group page. Lots of wonderful and smart sewists in there!

RESOURCES

The absolute best resource when making jeans (shorts or pants) is the Ginger Jeans sew-a-long from Closet Case Files. She goes pretty in depth on all sorts of fit issues and how to fix them on part 5. Definitely worth saving!