How to Sew Shorts

Shorts are indispensable pieces of clothing during the sweltering summer months, providing unmatched comfort and breathability. Whether you’re embarking on outdoor adventures, basking in the sunshine, or simply lounging around the house, a well-crafted pair of shorts can elevate your wardrobe. While purchasing ready-made shorts is convenient, there’s a distinct satisfaction and personalized touch that comes with sewing your own. It allows you to customize the design, fit, and fabric to your exact specifications, ensuring a perfect fit and a garment that truly reflects your style.

The process of sewing shorts is surprisingly straightforward, even for beginners. With a few basic materials, a sewing machine, and a bit of patience, you can create professional-quality shorts that will become staples of your summer wardrobe. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the entire process step by step, providing clear instructions and helpful tips to ensure a seamless sewing experience. From selecting the right fabric to finishing the seams, we’ve got you covered. So, gather your materials and prepare to embark on a fulfilling sewing journey that will empower you to create stylish, comfortable, and perfectly fitting summer shorts.

Before you start, it’s crucial to choose the right fabric for your shorts. Consider the purpose and environment in which you’ll be wearing them. If you’re planning on engaging in active pursuits, opt for a lightweight, breathable fabric like cotton or linen. For casual wear, a softer and more drapey fabric like rayon or jersey may be more appropriate. Once you’ve selected your fabric, it’s time to measure and cut out the pattern pieces. Follow the instructions provided in the pattern carefully to ensure accurate cutting. Remember, patience and attention to detail will pay dividends in the end.

Selecting the Right Fabric

Choosing the appropriate fabric is crucial for creating shorts that are both comfortable and stylish. Consider the following factors when selecting your fabric:

1. Fiber Content

Fiber	Characteristics
Cotton	Breathable, soft, comfortable, but can wrinkle easily
Linen	Lightweight, breathable, wrinkle-prone, can become stiff when washed
Denim	Durable, hard-wearing, can be stiff and uncomfortable
Khaki	Wrinkle-resistant, breathable, often made from cotton or linen
Corduroy	Warm, durable, can be bulky and less breathable
Stretch Fabrics	Comfortable, allows for movement, can be slippery

2. Weight

Choose a fabric weight appropriate for the season and intended use. Heavier fabrics are more suitable for cold weather or durable shorts, while lighter fabrics are ideal for summer or casual wear.

3. Weave

Weave refers to how the threads are interlaced to create the fabric. Different weaves affect the fabric’s texture, drape, and breathability. Consider the following weaves:

Plain weave
Twill weave
Sateen weave

Gathering the Essential Materials

1. Fabric

For summer shorts, lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or chambray are ideal. If you’re going for a more casual, sporty look, consider moisture-wicking fabrics such as polyester or spandex.

2. Thread

Choose a thread that matches the color and weight of your fabric. For general-purpose sewing, an all-purpose thread in cotton or polyester is a good choice. If you’re using a particularly delicate fabric, opt for a fine thread like silk or rayon. Here’s a table summarizing thread types based on fabric weight:

Fabric Weight	Thread Type
Light (chiffon, silk)	Silk thread (50 wt)
Medium (cotton, linen)	All-purpose thread (30-40 wt)
Heavy (denim, canvas)	Heavy-duty thread (20-30 wt)

3. Sewing Machine

A basic sewing machine is all you need for this project. If you don’t have one, you can rent or borrow one from a friend or family member.

Measuring and Cutting the Fabric

1. Measuring Your Body

To ensure a perfect fit, take accurate measurements of your waist, hips, and thigh circumference. Use a flexible measuring tape and measure snugly, not too tightly or loosely. Record your measurements in inches or centimeters.

2. Selecting the Right Fabric

Choose a lightweight, breathable fabric that is suitable for the intended purpose of your shorts. Consider the season, activity level, and desired drape. Some popular options include cotton, linen, chambray, and denim.

3. Cutting the Fabric

Lay the fabric flat on a large cutting surface. The main fabric piece will be twice the waist measurement plus the desired length of the shorts. For example, if your waist measures 30 inches and you want 10-inch shorts, cut a piece of fabric that is 70 inches long (30 x 2 = 60 + 10 = 70). Also cut two pockets for the front of the shorts, each measuring 6 inches wide by 7 inches long.

Measurement	Description
Waist measurement	Circumference of your waist
Hip measurement	Circumference of your hips
Thigh circumference	Circumference of your thigh at the widest point
Length	Desired length of the shorts

Creating the Waistband

1. Cut two rectangles of fabric for the waistband, each measuring the desired waistband width plus 1 inch for seam allowance. The length of the rectangles will depend on the circumference of the waist plus an additional 2 inches for overlapping.

2. Fold one short end of each rectangle over by 1/2 inch and press. Fold it over again by 1/2 inch and press again to create a double-folded hem.

3. Align the raw edges of the waistband rectangles and sew them together using a ½ inch seam allowance. Press open the seam.

4. **Attaching the Waistband to the Shorts Front and Back**

**Preparing the shorts front and back:**

Front	Back
Unfold the top edge of the shorts front by 1 inch and press.	Fold the top edge of the shorts back by 1 inch and press.

**Attaching the waistband:**

Front	Back
Align the waistband with the unfolded edge of the shorts front, matching the center of the waistband with the center of the shorts front.	Align the waistband with the folded edge of the shorts back, matching the center of the waistband with the center of the shorts back.
Pin the waistband in place along the entire top edge of the shorts front.	Pin the waistband in place along the entire top edge of the shorts back.
Sew the waistband to the shorts front using a ½ inch seam allowance.	Sew the waistband to the shorts back using a ½ inch seam allowance.
Press the seam allowance towards the waistband.	Press the seam allowance towards the waistband.

5. Fold the waistband down and overlap the ends by about 1 inch. Pin in place and sew across the overlap using a topstitch or other decorative stitch.

Sewing the Side Seams

With right sides together, align the side seams of the front and back shorts pieces. Pin and sew the side seams using a 5/8-inch seam allowance. Press the seams open.

Step 1: Identifying the Side Seams

Locate the side seams on both the front and back shorts pieces. These seams will typically run from the waistband to the hem along the outer edge of the leg.

Step 2: Pinning the Seams

Align the raw edges of the side seams on the front and back pieces. Use plenty of pins to hold the seams in place, making sure to insert the pins perpendicular to the seam line.

Step 3: Machine Stitching

Set your sewing machine to a straight stitch with a 5/8-inch seam allowance. Starting at the waistband, stitch the side seams together, following the pinned line.

Step 4: Edge Finishing

After sewing the side seams, finish the raw edges to prevent fraying. You can do this by zigzag stitching or serging the edges, or by using a seam finish tape.

Step 5: Pressing the Seams

Press the side seams open using a hot iron. This will help to flatten the seams and give the shorts a professional finish. Use a pressing cloth or parchment paper to protect the fabric from heat damage.

Seam Type	Stitch	Seam Allowance
Side seams	Straight stitch	5/8 inch

Adding the Leg Openings

With the inseams sewn, it’s time to add the leg openings. You can do this by folding up the hem of the leg and sewing it down. The width of the hem will depend on the desired look of the shorts. A wider hem will give a more relaxed and casual look, while a narrower hem will create a more tailored appearance.

To fold the hem, start by turning up the bottom edge of the leg by about 1/2 inch. Press the fold with an iron to create a crease. Then, fold up the hem again by the desired width and press again. Pin the hem in place and sew it down using a straight stitch.

Once the hem is sewn, the leg openings are complete. You can now try on the shorts to ensure they fit properly.

Tips for Adding the Leg Openings

Here are a few tips for adding the leg openings:

Use a wide hem for a relaxed look and a narrow hem for a tailored look.
Press the hem with an iron to create a crisp crease.
Pin the hem in place before sewing to ensure it is even.
Use a straight stitch to sew the hem down.
Try on the shorts to ensure they fit properly.

Table of Hem Widths

The following table provides a guide to help you choose the right hem width for your shorts:

Hem Width	Look
1/2 inch	Relaxed and casual
1 inch	Tailored

Attaching the Pockets

Time for the fun part! Let’s give your shorts some pockets to keep your essentials safe. Here’s a detailed walkthrough of how to attach pockets:

Materials you’ll need:

Fabric for pockets (we recommend something lightweight and durable, like cotton or canvas)
Thread
Needle

Steps:

1. Cut out the pocket fabric: Measure and cut out the desired size and shape of the pockets from your chosen fabric.

2. Fold and press the edges: Fold over the edges of the pockets by about 1/4 inch and press them with an iron to create a clean finished edge.

3. Sew the side and bottom seams: Stitch the side and bottom seams of the pockets using a straight stitch to enclose the raw edges. Leave the top edge open.

4. Turn the pockets right side out: Once you’ve sewn the seams, pull the pockets right side out to reveal the finished edges.

5. Tuck the raw edge: Tuck the raw edge of the top opening of the pockets inward by about 1/4 inch and press it with an iron to prepare for attaching to the shorts.

6. Pin the pockets to the shorts: Place the finished pockets on the front or back of the shorts, aligning the raw edges with the side seams and waistband.

7. Sew the pockets into place: Use a topstitch or hand stitch to sew the pockets securely onto the shorts, close to the edge of the pockets. For a stronger attachment, consider using a zigzag stitch around the edges.

Hemming the Shorts

1. Choose a Sewing Machine

Select a sewing machine that is in good working order and suitable for lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen.

2. Prepare the Fabric

Fold the fabric in half lengthwise and press the crease. Align the cut edges of the fabric leg and pin them together.

3. Pin the Hem

Fold the bottom edge of the fabric up by 1-2 inches. This will be the width of your hem. Pin the folded edge to the inside of the shorts leg, making sure the pins are evenly spaced.

4. Sew the Hem

Use a straight stitch to sew the hem, about 1/4 inch from the folded edge. Start and end your stitching by backstitching for reinforcement.

5. Iron the Hem

Once you have sewn the hem, iron it to press it flat and create a professional finish.

6. Facing the Waistband

If your shorts have a waistband, you need to face it. Fold a piece of fabric in half lengthwise and press the crease. Align the cut edges of the waistband and the folded edge of the facing, and pin them together.

7. Sew the Facing

Sew the facing to the waistband using a straight stitch, 1/4 inch from the edge. Start and end your stitching by backstitching.

8. Press the Waistband

Fold the facing around the edge of the waistband and press it to create a clean finish. You can topstitch around the waistband for added reinforcement, if desired.

9. Finishing Touches

Once you have completed the hem and waistband, remove the pins and give your shorts a final press. Check for any loose threads and trim them as necessary.

Finishing Touches

1. Hem the Bottom

Fold the bottom edge of the shorts up twice by 1/2 inch, then topstitch it in place.

2. Finish the Waistband

If you used a casing for the waistband, insert the elastic and stitch the ends together. If you used a ribbon or bias tape, sew it around the waistband.

3. Add Pockets (Optional)

If you want to add pockets, sew them on now.

4. Add a Drawstring (Optional)

If you want to add a drawstring, thread it through the waistband and tie it in a knot.

5. Add a Belt Loop (Optional)

If you want to add a belt loop, sew it on now.

6. Add Studs or Other Embellishments (Optional)

If you want to add studs or other embellishments, do it now.

7. Give Them a Final Press

Press the shorts to remove any wrinkles.

8. Wash and Dry Them

Wash and dry the shorts before wearing them.

9. Quick Reference Guide for Finishing Touches

Task	Method
Hem the bottom	Fold the bottom edge up twice by 1/2 inch, then topstitch it in place.
Finish the waistband	Insert the elastic into the casing and stitch the ends together, or sew a ribbon or bias tape around the waistband.
Add pockets	Sew the pockets on now.
Add a drawstring	Thread the drawstring through the waistband and tie it in a knot.
Add a belt loop	Sew the belt loop on now.
Add studs or other embellishments	If you want to add studs or other embellishments, do it now.
Give them a final press	Press the shorts to remove any wrinkles.
Wash and dry them	Wash and dry the shorts before wearing them.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue 1: Shorts are Too Loose

Tighten the elastic in the waistband or add a belt to cinch in the waist.

Issue 2: Shorts are Too Tight

Loosen the elastic in the waistband or try a larger size of shorts.

Issue 3: Fabric Ripping at Seams

Reinforce the seams with additional stitching or use a stronger thread.

Issue 4: Zipper Not Functioning

Check if the zipper is aligned correctly and try lubricating it with a zipper lubricant.

Issue 5: Shorts Too Short

Extend the length of the shorts by adding a band of fabric to the bottom.

Issue 6: Shorts Too Long

Hem or cuff the shorts to shorten the length.

Issue 7: Fabric Puckering or Gathering

Adjust the tension of your sewing machine or hand-stitch the seams to prevent puckering.

Issue 8: Fabric Fraying

Use a serger or zig-zag stitch to finish the edges of the fabric to prevent fraying.

Issue 9: Fabric Fading or Discoloring

Follow the care instructions on the fabric label to prevent fading or discoloration.

Issue 10: Shorts Not Fitting Properly

Remeasure your body and adjust the pattern or choose a different size of shorts. Check the following aspects:

Issue	Possible Cause
Waistband too tight	Incorrect measurements or using the wrong elastic
Seat is too baggy	Insufficient fabric or improper fitting
Leg opening too narrow	Not allowing enough seam allowance or using the wrong seam type
Shorts too short	Mistake in measuring the length or adding the wrong hem
Shorts too long	Incorrectly estimating the desired length or not rolling up the hem enough

Sewing shorts is a great way to make a custom pair that fits you perfectly. You can choose the fabric, the style, and the length. Plus, it’s a relatively easy project that can be completed in a few hours.

To get started, you’ll need a few supplies:

Fabric: Choose a lightweight woven fabric such as cotton, linen, or chambray.
Thread
Scissors
Measuring tape
Ruler or yard stick
Chalk or fabric marker
Elastic waistband
Drawstring (optional)

Once you have your supplies, you can follow these steps to sew your shorts:

1. Cut out the fabric pieces. You’ll need two pieces for the front and two pieces for the back. The front pieces should be the same size, and the back pieces should be slightly larger.
2. Sew the side seams. Pin the side seams of the front and back pieces together, right sides facing. Sew the seams using a 5/8-inch seam allowance.
3. Hem the bottom of the shorts. Fold the bottom edge of the shorts up by 1 inch and press. Fold it up again by 1 inch and press again. Sew the hem in place using a blind stitch.
4. Create the waistband. Cut a piece of elastic that is the same length as your waist plus 2 inches. Fold the elastic in half and sew the ends together to form a loop. Insert the elastic into the waistband of the shorts and sew it in place.
5. Add a drawstring (optional). If you want to add a drawstring to your shorts, cut a piece of cord or ribbon that is twice the length of your waist. Thread the drawstring through the waistband and tie it in a knot.

Your shorts are now complete!