Pants for Work or Play

MatchyMatchySewingClub.com

Skill level

There were no surprises when sewing these pants. The pattern is easy for an advanced beginner sewer when using a non-directional fabric. We used an irregular striped corduroy, which added complexity and time for matching the pattern pieces.

Size range and fitting

Sized XXS to 6XL for waists 24 inches to 57 inches and hips 34 inches to 67 inches. Pull-on pants that sit at the natural waist are relaxed, fitting in the hip area and roomier through the legs. Not considering the elastic, there is 11 inches of ease at the waist and 4-1/2 inches at the hips, which is appropriate for this style.

Fabrics

Lightweight to medium-weight wovens are recommended. Try denim, twill, suiting, lightweight wool blend, or rayon. Play up the inseam gusset with a contrasting fabric.

Style and sewing details

These barrel-shaped, ankle-grazing pants have a 2-inch-wide elastic waist casing, oversized askew front patch pockets, traditional back patch pockets, and a wide inseam gusset. The darts at knee level and on the back hemline give the pants a distinctive shape. The design is practical, comfortable, and contemporary.

• The instructions provide enough details to make the pattern easy to follow.
• Corresponding seams are the same length. The notches on the pattern match, however, there are none on the gusset to align to the inseams nor the crotch point.
• Label all pattern pieces once they have been cut out.
• Try topstitching 1/4 inch from the edge of the fabric in place of the listed 1/8 inch.
• As a hack, try adding zippers at the ankles at the darts. Also attach a belt loop at each side seam to support a scarf around the waist.

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Pattern tested and sewn by Lois Atkins, Troutville, Virginia.

Fabric: stretch cotton corduroy, MoodFabrics.com.

Illustrations: Steven Fleck.

Photo: Mike Yamin.