A Bunch of Tips to Sew Better Pants

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00:00 — Curved Waistbands
02:35 — Belly Comfort
04:35 — Stronger Stitches
07:55 — Bigger Butts & Thighs
09:43 — Twisted Legs
11:32 — Belt Loops
12:51 — Better Pockets
14:22 — Bar Tacks
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If you’re ready to up your pants-making game, this video has you covered! I’m sharing my top tips for tackling common pant-fitting challenges and making adjustments like a pro. From creating perfectly curved waistbands for a better fit to adjusting patterns for a bit of belly, these tricks will make your pants not only look amazing but also feel incredible. Whether you’re working with denim, twill, or even something stretchy, these techniques are a must-know for any sewist.

In this video, I’ll show you how to fix twisted legs, achieve stronger stitches, and adjust for a big seat and thighs—because fit is everything! I’ll also talk about adding as many belt loops as you want for both style and functionality. And if you’ve ever struggled with that pesky divot at the bottom fold of your pocket, don’t worry—I’ve got a simple solution that’ll make it disappear like magic.

These are the tips I rely on every time I make pants, and they’ve been total game-changers in my sewing projects. So, whether you’re new to sewing or just looking to refine your skills, stick around for some helpful insights that’ll take your pants-making to the next level. Let’s dive in and create some pants you’ll absolutely love!
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[Celestyal]

I tore apart a pair of pants that actually fit me after they wore out and plan on using them as pattern pieces to make more. :)

[ua]

For me a gamechanger in making better quality sewing was doing understitching where necessary (especially with pockets). Also, staystitching, but it is more useful with flowy, light fabrics. And the key is always good pressing, you cannot skip it. Also, in harder spaces: hand baste it in place- it is worth the time and effort.

[ireneparker]

As always, your explanations are excellent. I love your videos. The cover photo is intriguing enough to be considered click bait. 🤩I would hang that picture in my sewing room.

[Malawax]

The lighting in this video is exquisite (so is the content)! Wishing you a healthy and productive new year.

[cliftonmcnalley]

For a stronger stitch in the back seam of trousers, I started using the straight stretch stitch on my machine. I also use the stretch stitch in the lower portion of the armscye in my jackets.

[MicheleS-te]

Amen to the extra belt loops. And thanks for the explanation to cover the extra junk in the trunk.

[Mrs.Patriot]

I check every item of clothing I purchase for straight grain. I'm working on being able to sew my own clothes. You're such a character! 😆

[lindap]

Thiese are the most informative and easy to understand pant fitting instructions I have come across (be it patterns, books or videos) Thank you. I will be making myself some new pants soon.

[lakcurious]

Thank you for this one! It's always a pleasure to watch your videos, regardless of whether I need a solution to a problem or not. I like your humor and your friendly and kind manner.

[christinadarque]

Thanks for the Skillshare link! Been sewing & designing clothes since I was 8, self taught. That’s about 45 years 😮 but I really like your videos. Helpful when I’ve forgotten a few things from design school (finally went to get that 4 yr piece of paper already!) 😉 Love the rooster’s new hat 💜

[wilhelmseleorningcniht]

having two belt loops rather that one in the back, or more specifically not having a belt loop in line with that central seam in the back, is also good in case you need to adjust the pants later, since then you don't need to take that loop off when taking them in or letting them out again

[Stacy_Sunshine]

The ONLY time my pockets don't lay flat is if the pants are too tight and it's pulling across my hip area... i do love this reinforcement idea, none the less!! As far as better pockets: I ALWAYS put pockets in my pants. Women's clothing often comes with NO or very small pockets (pattern pieces). I have some large ones I use instead, and I incorporate EXTRA pockets. sometimes pockets within pockets. In addition to additional and re-positioned beltloops!

[MissPlaced]

What you call a flat felled seam is what I'd call a welt seam. What I've been taught for a flat felled seam is to sew a normal seam, trim one side of the seam allowance in half, and then fold the other seam allowance over it and stitch it down. Still not great on curves, but better and a bit less bulky.

For full thighs, especially for folks with athletic builds, we tend to wind up with a lot of awkward pulling and a V shaped bunching around the front crotch. Simplest way to adjust is to lengthen the crotch extension, and widen the thigh portion of the pants by the same amount, tapering down toward the bottom of the thigh.

For the front pockets, I extend the pocket bag across the front so it can be sewn to the fly facing this way they can't bunch up inside.

[marymorris]

this video couldn't have come at a better time. I am about to start altering my first draft/mock up of this pair of pants i am making using your drafting videos!! thank you for being amazing!!! 💖💖💖

[karljiks]

this video is so perfectly timed as im trying to sew my own linen pants right now :)

[AnnaStinziano]

I have plans to sew my first pair of trousers in the new year, and am completely terrified! Thanks for these great tips.

[ua]

I would love some fitting tips for different silluettes. My brother has quite wide hips and tighs(and he gets narrower in the waist), not "typical" male silluete (I laugh that he has our grandma's hips). He loves to wear smart clothes, but he struggles with finding something that fits him well. I would love to sew him some nice pants, but I do not know how do you solve pattern issues with male fit (well, I am still struggling with female fit too). So it would be a great series where you explain how to fit existing clothing or how to fix pattern issues for different body types. I would love my brother to feel more confident in his body type (I hate to see him crushed anytime he goes to shop for suit, even though he generally loves expressing himself though clothing- in classic style)

[HarveyDangerLurker]

I'm drafting a skirt for my wife, and I'm going to alter the pattern because of this lesson.

[barbarawarner]

You just covered all my pant making issues. Thank you!

[OldMotherLogo]

I am loving your videos! You are addressing some challenges that I am facing that are not even specifically about making pants. I want to make an Edwardian style belt and wondered about how to get that curve right besides just guessing. This is going to be so helpful! Thank you!