Top 10 Indie Easy Trouser Sewing Patterns
If you’ve been steering clear of sewing trousers because you are worried they are too tricky, we’re about to show you some options that are easy to sew. You heard me, easy. Trousers can be one of the most frustrating garments to buy. It’s like the goldilocks of shopping. You’ll try a pair on that fits on the waist, but is too tight on the hips. A pair that gapes in the back, but fits your bum nicely. A pair that is almost perfect in every way… but is what feels like a metre too long! I’m sure you can all relate to this and are still looking for the “ah, this pair is just right” moment?
If you would like to avoid this nightmare, you can use your sewing skills to make some that fit you. We think that when you sew trousers, it’s a good idea to start with an easy pair that is suitable for confident beginners and beyond. These projects will usually omit the fiddly parts, such as zip flys and fitted waistbands. Once you get to grips with the construction of trousers you can always move on to this style, but if you start with an easy pair you will be set up for success!
We asked the sewing community of Instagram and Facebook to share their favourite easy trouser sewing patterns, so have included some of these recommendations along with our own. Now, onto the indie trouser sewing patterns…
Pomona Pants and Shorts by Anna Allen
The Pomona Pants and Shorts are a great place to start as they are easy to sew and include three views so you have plenty of variety to play with. These loose-fitting pants have an elastic waist, high rise, no side seams and include patch pockets on the front or back. The waistband is created by folding over the top edge of the pants, which eliminates the extra bulk you would get from a separate waistband seam. You can pick from a wide leg, ankle-length sailor pant, loose tapered leg, ankle-length pants and a cute pair of shorts. I’ve made this pattern a few times and am a big fan of it.
Sizing: UK 6 – 22
Format: PDF
Pietra Pants and Shorts by Closet Core Patterns
Looking for a design that is both easy to sew and packed with gorgeous details? Try the Pietra Pants and Shorts by Closet Core Patterns. This is a firm favourite in the sewing community thanks to its clever panels and deep pockets.
Pietra offers the best of both worlds: a flat front, high-waisted silhouette with the comfort of an elastic waist in the back. Featuring lengthening panels in the front with slanted hip pockets and a hidden waist stay, you’ll never want to take them off. You get a lot of bang for your buck with this pattern as you have four leg styles to choose from; a wide leg in either a floor-skimming or cropped length, a slim and tapered leg or gently flared shorts. I have made this pattern and have plans for more!
Sizing: UK 6 – 20
Format: Paper
Arden Pants by Helen’s Closet
This is another project I am hoping to make at some point – meet the Arden Pants by Helen’s Closet! They are high-waisted trousers with loads of versatility and delightful details. They have an elastic waist and front and back pockets. You can go for a jogger-style cuff in two different widths or leave it off for a sleeker look. The elastic waistband can be topstitched with a drawstring for a more casual look. Helen’s instructions are always top-notch so you can’t go wrong with this pattern!
Sizing: UK 6 – 30
Format: PDF
Bob Woven Pant by Style Arc
The Bob Woven Pant by Style Arc popped up a few times in the recommendations, and I can see why. These balloon-shaped pants have an elastic waistband and in-seam pockets. The shape of the leg is so interesting and modern. They look particularly lovely in washed linen fabrics.
Sizing: UK 4 – 16 or UK 18 – 30
Format: Paper
Opal Pants and Shorts by Megan Nielsen
The Opal Pants and Shorts by Megan Nielsen have some really interesting options included, while still being approachable for any confident beginner. They have a relaxed fit with a high waist and include a paperbag or standard elastic waistband, inseam or patch pockets, back pockets, belt loops, an optional belt, and multiple lengths. You have tapered or wide trouser legs to choose from and two lengths of shorts to make. This pattern will certainly keep you busy!
Sizing: UK 6 – 20
Format: Paper
Ivo Pants by Melilot
We are rather taken with a swoonsome detail on this pattern… that pocket. It’s a fine specimen of a pocket that you will want to show off to everyone you meet! The Ivo Pants by Melilot are cool and comfortable and have an elasticated waist. It’s quick and easy to sew and suitable for beginners. I am very tempted to make these 🙂
Sizing: UK 6 – 34/36
Format: PDF
Note: This pattern does not include seam allowances
Ninni Culottes by Named
This is the pattern I used to make my first ever pair of trousers and I was in love. I’ve made it several times since! The Ninni Culottes by Named are a pair of delightfully simple elastic-waist pants! The pants have a generous amount of ease and come with handy side pockets. They are designed for knit fabrics, but you can make them in light to medium-weight woven fabric with some drape (I have a lovely pair in a Tencel fabric and they are my fave trousers!).
Sizing: UK 4/6 – 28
Format: Paper and PDF
Free Range Slacks by Sew House Seven
The sewing community also recommended the Free Range Slacks by Sew House Seven. This pattern is as easy to wear as its name. There are two options – a tapered leg version and a straight, cropped version. Both have an elastic high waist, side panels, front pockets that are top stitched in place from behind, and an optional back patch pocket(s). The tapered leg looks really cool rolled up.
Sizing: UK 6 – 22 or UK 20/22 – 38
Format: Paper and PDF
Calder Trousers and Shorts by Cashmerette
A sewist recommended this chic pattern, and we can see why! The Calder Trousers and Shorts by Cashmerette are wide-legged woven trousers that feature a flat front, elasticated back waistband, faced in-seam pockets, and three length options. Choose between a dartless apple fit and a darted back pear fit for ideal bum shaping. They are the perfect trouser pattern for smart or evening wear.
Sizing: UK 14 – 34 with apple and pear pelvis fits
Format: Paper
Miller Trousers by Paper Theory Patterns
The coolest pattern of the bunch has to be the Miller Trousers. They are relaxed, easy to wear and feature a modern carrot-shaped trouser leg that looks great worn rolled up. Choose from an elasticated or tie waist and you’ll find a dart in the back waist for extra shaping. The silhouette is full with a pleat in the front leg for extra fullness. Oh, and you’ll appreciate the extra deep pockets!
Sizing: UK 6 – 28
Format: Paper and PDF
You can browse all our indie trouser sewing patterns for confident beginners here!
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[…] are also someone who appreciates a good pocket. We’ve also written a blog post rounding up our top 10 indie easy trouser sewing patterns that is worth a gander. Have a wonderful Sunday whatever you are […]