DIY: Make Your Own Custom Sweatshorts – A Beginner’s Guide

Sweatshorts are the ultimate in comfortable, casual wear. Perfect for lounging, working out, or running errands, they’re a wardrobe staple. But why buy them when you can easily make your own, customized to your exact size, style, and fabric preferences? This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of creating your own pair of sweatshorts, even if you’re a beginner sewer. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right fabric to adding personalized touches.

## Why Make Your Own Sweatshorts?

Before we dive in, let’s consider the advantages of DIY sweatshorts:

* **Custom Fit:** Store-bought shorts often don’t fit perfectly. Making your own allows you to tailor them to your exact measurements, ensuring a comfortable and flattering fit.
* **Fabric Choice:** You have complete control over the fabric you use. Choose a soft, breathable material that feels great against your skin.
* **Style Customization:** Add pockets, adjust the length, or incorporate unique design elements to create sweatshorts that reflect your personal style.
* **Cost-Effective:** Depending on the fabric you choose, making your own sweatshorts can be cheaper than buying a high-quality pair.
* **Sustainable:** Using repurposed fabric or choosing eco-friendly materials reduces waste and promotes sustainable fashion.
* **Creative Outlet:** Sewing is a rewarding hobby that allows you to express your creativity and learn new skills.

## What You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the materials and tools you’ll need to get started:

* **Fabric:** The most common fabric for sweatshorts is sweatshirt fleece (also known as French terry). It’s soft, absorbent, and easy to work with. Other suitable options include cotton knit, double knit, and even lightweight jersey. Consider the weight and stretch of the fabric based on the desired drape and comfort level. You’ll need approximately 1-1.5 yards of fabric, depending on your size and the length of shorts you want. Always pre-wash your fabric before cutting to prevent shrinkage later.
* **Sewing Machine:** A basic sewing machine is essential. Ensure it’s in good working order and threaded correctly.
* **Serger (Optional):** A serger is not required but it will give your sweatshorts a more professional finish by overlocking the raw edges of the fabric. This prevents fraying and adds durability.
* **Scissors or Rotary Cutter:** Sharp fabric scissors or a rotary cutter and mat are needed for accurate cutting.
* **Measuring Tape:** Essential for taking accurate measurements and marking pattern pieces.
* **Ruler or Yardstick:** For drawing straight lines and measuring longer distances.
* **Pins:** To hold fabric pieces together before sewing.
* **Seam Ripper:** For correcting mistakes (we all make them!).
* **Iron and Ironing Board:** For pressing seams and creating a clean, professional finish.
* **Drawstring (Optional):** For the waistband. You can use twill tape, ribbon, paracord, or create your own drawstring from the same fabric.
* **Elastic (Optional):** For the waistband. If you prefer an elastic waistband, you’ll need elastic that is the appropriate width (usually 1-2 inches).
* **Safety Pin:** To help thread the drawstring or elastic through the waistband casing.
* **Paper for Pattern (Optional):** If you are drafting your own pattern, you will need paper (pattern paper, newspaper, or even parchment paper will work).
* **Pencil or Fabric Marker:** For marking fabric.
* **Sweatshort Pattern (Highly Recommended for Beginners):** You can find free or paid sweatshort patterns online. Search for “sweatshort sewing pattern” or “DIY sweatshort pattern.” Choose a pattern that is designed for knit fabrics and that includes your size.

## Choosing Your Fabric

The fabric you choose will significantly impact the look and feel of your sweatshorts. Here’s a closer look at some popular options:

* **Sweatshirt Fleece (French Terry):** This is the classic choice for sweatshorts. It’s soft, absorbent, and has a looped back that adds warmth and comfort. Look for a medium-weight fleece for best results.
* **Cotton Knit:** Cotton knit is a lightweight and breathable option that’s perfect for warmer weather. It’s also easy to sew and comes in a wide variety of colors and prints.
* **Double Knit:** Double knit fabrics are thicker and more stable than single knit fabrics. They have good drape and are less likely to stretch out of shape.
* **Jersey Knit:** Jersey knit is a very lightweight and stretchy fabric that’s often used for t-shirts. It’s comfortable to wear but can be more challenging to sew than other knits.
* **Repurposed Fabrics:** Consider upcycling old t-shirts, sweatshirts, or other knit garments into sweatshorts. This is a great way to reduce waste and create unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.

When choosing your fabric, consider the following:

* **Weight:** Lighter fabrics are better for warmer weather, while heavier fabrics provide more warmth.
* **Stretch:** Knit fabrics have varying degrees of stretch. Choose a fabric with good stretch for comfort and ease of movement.
* **Color and Print:** Select a color or print that you love and that complements your existing wardrobe.
* **Care Instructions:** Make sure you understand the care instructions for your chosen fabric before you start sewing.

## Taking Your Measurements

Accurate measurements are crucial for creating sweatshorts that fit well. Here’s how to take the necessary measurements:

* **Waist:** Measure around your natural waistline, which is usually the narrowest part of your torso. Keep the measuring tape parallel to the floor and don’t pull it too tight.
* **Hips:** Measure around the fullest part of your hips, keeping the measuring tape parallel to the floor.
* **Inseam:** Measure from your crotch down to where you want the shorts to end. This is the most important measurement for determining the length of your sweatshorts.

Compare your measurements to the size chart provided with your chosen pattern. If your measurements fall between sizes, it’s generally best to choose the larger size. You can always take the shorts in later if needed.

## Preparing Your Pattern

If you’re using a commercial pattern, carefully cut out the pattern pieces in your size. If you’re drafting your own pattern, follow these steps:

1. **Draw a rectangle:** The width of the rectangle should be half of your hip measurement plus seam allowance (usually 1/2 inch on each side). The length of the rectangle should be your desired inseam plus the waistband height plus hem allowance (usually 1-2 inches).
2. **Shape the crotch:** On one of the long sides of the rectangle, mark the crotch depth. This is usually about 1/4 of your hip measurement. Draw a curved line from the crotch depth mark to the opposite corner of the rectangle to create the crotch curve.
3. **Shape the leg:** Taper the leg slightly towards the hem. This will give the shorts a more flattering shape.
4. **Add seam allowance:** Add seam allowance (usually 1/2 inch) to all edges of the pattern piece.
5. **Cut out the pattern piece:** Carefully cut out the pattern piece along the marked lines.

Remember to label your pattern pieces clearly (e.g., “Front,” “Back,” “Waistband”).

## Cutting Your Fabric

1. **Pre-wash your fabric:** This is important to prevent shrinkage after the shorts are sewn.
2. **Fold your fabric:** Fold the fabric lengthwise, with the right sides together (unless the pattern instructions specify otherwise).
3. **Place the pattern pieces:** Place the pattern pieces on the fabric, following the grainline indicated on the pattern. The grainline should be parallel to the selvage edge of the fabric.
4. **Pin the pattern pieces:** Secure the pattern pieces to the fabric with pins, making sure the fabric lies flat and smooth.
5. **Cut out the fabric:** Carefully cut out the fabric along the edges of the pattern pieces. Use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter for accurate cutting.
6. **Mark notches:** Transfer any notches or markings from the pattern to the fabric using a fabric marker or tailor’s chalk. These markings will help you align the fabric pieces correctly during sewing.

## Sewing the Sweatshorts

Here’s a step-by-step guide to sewing your sweatshorts:

1. **Sew the side seams:** With right sides together, pin the front and back pieces together along the side seams. Sew the side seams using a straight stitch or a serger, using the seam allowance indicated on your pattern.
2. **Sew the inseam:** With right sides together, pin the front and back pieces together along the inseam. Sew the inseam using a straight stitch or a serger, using the seam allowance indicated on your pattern.
3. **Finish the edges (Optional):** If you don’t have a serger, you can finish the raw edges of the seams with a zigzag stitch or by using bias tape. This will prevent fraying and add durability.
4. **Prepare the waistband:**
* **Elastic Waistband:** Cut a piece of elastic that is slightly shorter than your waist measurement (usually 2-3 inches shorter). Overlap the ends of the elastic by about 1 inch and sew them together securely to form a loop.
* **Drawstring Waistband:** Cut a strip of fabric that is the width of your desired waistband height plus seam allowance (usually 1-2 inches). The length of the strip should be your waist measurement plus seam allowance.
5. **Attach the waistband:**
* **Elastic Waistband:** Fold the top edge of the shorts down to create a casing for the elastic, leaving an opening of about 2 inches. Sew around the casing, leaving the opening unsewn. Insert the elastic into the casing using a safety pin. Overlap the ends of the elastic and sew them together securely. Close the opening in the casing.
* **Drawstring Waistband:** Fold the waistband strip in half lengthwise, with wrong sides together, and press. With right sides together, pin the waistband to the top edge of the shorts, aligning the raw edges. Sew the waistband to the shorts, leaving an opening of about 2 inches. Fold the waistband up and over the seam allowance, and press. Topstitch the waistband in place, closing the opening.
6. **Create Buttonholes or Eyelets (For Drawstring):** Create two buttonholes or eyelets on the front of the waistband, spaced evenly apart. These will be for the drawstring.
7. **Thread the drawstring:** Thread the drawstring through the buttonholes or eyelets using a safety pin. Tie knots at the ends of the drawstring to prevent them from fraying.
8. **Hem the shorts:** Fold the bottom edge of the shorts up twice to create a hem. Press the hem in place and sew it using a straight stitch or a coverstitch machine.
9. **Add Pockets (Optional):** If you want to add pockets to your sweatshorts, now is the time to do it. There are many different types of pockets you can add, such as side seam pockets, patch pockets, or cargo pockets. Find a pocket pattern that you like and follow the instructions for attaching it to your shorts.

## Adding Personalized Touches

Once your sweatshorts are sewn, you can add personalized touches to make them truly your own. Here are a few ideas:

* **Embroidery:** Add embroidery to the waistband, pockets, or leg of the shorts. You can use a sewing machine or hand embroidery to create your design.
* **Appliqué:** Add appliqué to the shorts using fabric scraps, felt, or other embellishments. This is a great way to add color and texture to your project.
* **Fabric Paint:** Use fabric paint to create custom designs on the shorts. You can use stencils or freehand paint your designs.
* **Tie-Dye:** Tie-dye the shorts for a fun and colorful look. There are many different tie-dye techniques you can try.
* **Patches:** Sew patches onto the shorts to add personality and style. You can use store-bought patches or create your own.
* **Drawstring Alternatives:** Use interesting materials for the drawstring. Leather cord, braided yarn, or even old shoelaces can add a unique touch.

## Tips for Success

* **Choose the right needle:** Use a ballpoint needle when sewing knit fabrics. This type of needle is designed to prevent skipped stitches and fabric damage.
* **Use a walking foot:** A walking foot can help to feed knit fabrics evenly through the sewing machine, preventing stretching and puckering.
* **Adjust the stitch length:** Use a slightly longer stitch length when sewing knit fabrics. This will allow the fabric to stretch without breaking the thread.
* **Test your stitches:** Before you start sewing your sweatshorts, test your stitches on a scrap of fabric to make sure they look good and are strong.
* **Press as you go:** Pressing seams as you sew will help to create a professional-looking finish.
* **Take your time:** Don’t rush the sewing process. Take your time and pay attention to detail. The more time you invest in your project, the better the results will be.
* **Don’t be afraid to experiment:** Sewing is a creative process. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fabrics, techniques, and embellishments to create sweatshorts that are uniquely your own.

## Troubleshooting

Even with careful planning and execution, you might encounter some challenges while sewing your sweatshorts. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

* **Skipped Stitches:** This is a common problem when sewing knit fabrics. Try using a ballpoint needle, adjusting the stitch length, or using a walking foot.
* **Stretching and Puckering:** This can happen if the fabric is not fed evenly through the sewing machine. Try using a walking foot or adjusting the presser foot pressure.
* **Seams Coming Undone:** This can happen if the seams are not sewn securely enough. Try using a stronger thread or reinforcing the seams with a zigzag stitch.
* **Uneven Hem:** This can happen if the hem is not folded evenly. Use an iron to press the hem in place before sewing.

## Conclusion

Making your own sweatshorts is a fun and rewarding project that allows you to create custom-fit, stylish, and comfortable garments. By following these steps and tips, you can sew a pair of sweatshorts that you’ll love to wear. So grab your fabric, gather your tools, and get sewing! With a little practice, you’ll be able to create a whole wardrobe of custom-made sweatshorts.