How to Make Pants With Jersey Knit
Jersey knit fabric is a soft, stretchy material made of a blend of wool or cotton and synthetic materials. Jersey knit is often used to make T-shirts or draped garments such as dresses, and it can also be used to make soft pants such as gauchos or pajama pants. The stretchiness of jersey knit is ideal for these kinds of pants, because they are looser and more flowing than tight-fitting jeans or pants.
Instructions
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1
Measure the fullest part of your hips and waist. Take note of the measurements.
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2
Choose a sewing pattern for pants based on your waistline measurements. Check the pattern to make sure it will fit your size; if you are between two sizes, go for the larger size, because you can adjust the pattern as needed.
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Purchase jersey knit fabric. Look on the pattern envelope to see how much fabric is required to make your pants.
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4
Buy the thread, elastic, buttons and other accessories you need for your pair of pants. Pajama pants or gauchos will have an elastic or tied waist, so purchase a string tie if your pattern calls for it.
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5
Cut out each of the pattern pieces, cutting them along the dotted lines provided. If you need to, cut along the lengthening and shortening lines to make the pants longer or shorter, depending on your body size. Make sure you leave a few extra inches on the pattern so you can hem the pants.
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Make any adjustments to the pattern pieces, including widening the pant legs if you so desire.
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Pin the pattern pieces to the jersey knit fabric with straight pins, and cut out the fabric.
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Sew the pieces of the pants together, following the instructions provided in the pattern and using a sewing machine. Place an elastic band or a string tie along the waist of the pants before you sew the waistline shut.
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Try the pants on to make sure they fit correctly around the waist.
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10
Hem the pants to the correct length.
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References
Resources
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