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Custom Fit:

Tips for Adjusting Pants & Shorts Patterns to Fit Your Body

In the world of sewing, one of the most appealing aspects is the ability to adjust patterns to our individual measurements, resulting in clothing that fits flawlessly.  

Whether it's making a pair of dress pants or comfy shorts, the process of customization empowers us to achieve garments that not only look great but also feel comfortable and make us feel confident. In this blog post we'll talk about several adjustments that can be made to pants or shorts sewing patterns. By mastering these techniques, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and skills to fine-tune your creations, ensuring they cater precisely to your unique body shape and fit preferences.

By understanding how to adjust patterns effectively, you'll unlock a world of possibilities in creating garments that exude both style and comfort. Let's check out some common adjustments!

Flat Seat Adjustment

Problem: Diagonal drag lines pointed up towards the hip. 

Solution: Remove length and width through the seat by cutting a diagonal line from the center back seam to the hip. Leave a hinge at the hip (represented by the green circle). You’ll then shift the cut piece down so that it removes the length and width needed.  

Full Seat Adjustment

Problem: Drag lines pointing to the center back seam. 

Solution: Add length to the seat. Cut a diagonal line from the center back seam to the hip. Leave a hinge at the hip (represented by the green circle). You’ll then shift the cut piece up so that it adds the length and width needed.

Low Seat Adjustment

Problem: Horizontal drag lines below the seat.

Solution: Scoop the back crotch curve.

Round Pubis Adjustment

Problem: Vertical drag lines along the front crotch.

Solution: Scoop the front crotch curve.

Flat Pubis Adjustment

Problem: Horizontal lines across the front crotch.

Solution: Make your front crotch curve more shallow.

Thin Thigh Adjustment

Problem: Vertical drag lines starting at the back crotch.

Solution: Bring in the back crotch point.

Full Thigh Adjustment

Problem: Diagonal lines radiating from the back crotch to the outer thigh.

Solution: Extend the back crotch point out.

Full Belly Adjustment

Problem: Drag lines across the belly.

Solution: Raise the center front the amount needed and blend it down to the side seam. Unfortunately this is trial and error, as there is no formula for a full belly adjusment.

Remember, when making adjustments to your sewing patterns, a little bit goes a long way. We recommend working no more than a 1/4" at a time. The amount you add or remove adds up real quick. If you don't get it the first time, try again. And if you don't get it the second time, try again. Keep adjusting until you are happy with your fit. Most of all, have fun with it, this shouldn't be stressful, this should be about you finding out what adjustments you need for the perfect most comfortable fit! Happy sewing!

Check out our shorts & pants patterns here! Use code PERFECTFIT at checkout to get 50% off your order!