TOP 10 BARREL LEG TROUSER SEWING PATTERNS
TOP 10 BARREL LEG TROUSER SEWING PATTERNS
Ready to level up your handmade wardrobe this season? Whether you're after a piece that fills a gap in your autumn style or you're ready to push yourself beyond your usual sewing comfort zone, there's one trouser silhouette that deserves all your attention — the barrel leg.
It's a shape that's captured the imagination of sewists everywhere, combining comfort with contemporary style in a way that feels both fresh and timeless.
Not all barrel legs are created equal — some go full-on exaggerated, others keep it sleek and subtle. That's why I believe there is a barrel-leg pattern out there for everyone! Here are ten excellent options...
Ready to Sew Emile Barrel Pants
The bestseller
This pattern has been sitting at the top of our bestsellers since its launch, and it shows no sign of slowing down. Mel on the team has sewn it multiple times and raves about the wearability. Simple to sew yet far from basic, it offers an approachable introduction to trouser-making while allowing you to create a garment with a strong identity.
If you love the barrel leg style, but fancy a pattern with a twist, take a look at the Ready to Sew Elvis Asymmetrical Pants.
Sew Liberated Chanterelle Pants and Shorts
For the barrel curious
This pattern is ideal for anyone a little unsure of the barrel leg look, as it mimics a barrel leg shape thanks to the pleat at the hem and is nice and subtle. Featuring a comfortable and easy-to-fit elastic waist and three leg options, Chanterelle will fill any gap in your wardrobe and be an all-seasons piece for years to come.
Matchy Matchy Kite Pants
Designed with beginners in mind
Designed with beginners in mind (but great for all skill levels), this pattern comes together quickly and is packed with playful details. If you prefer a more subtle barrel leg shape (think barrel-lite), this could be the one for you. A unique side inset detail makes the perfect canvas for patchworking, colour-blocking, or using up those favourite fabric scraps.
Style Arc Bob Pants
Fan favourite
This balloon pant predates the barrel leg trend, and I think that might be why it is so popular. Sewists seem to swear by the comfort and fit - many make multiple Bobs. If you are new to Style Arc patterns, you should note they are suited to a more confident maker as the written instructions are not illustrated at each step.
Helen's Closet Falconer Pants
The wardrobe staple
This elevated offering set the sewing world on fire. With the Falconer pattern, you have a choice of barrel or wide leg, so you don't have to commit to the trend. Helen's instructions are always top-notch, so this is a great pattern to step up your sewing skills. You will get so much wear out of them; sewing a pair of Falconer pants just makes sense!
Sew Liberated Madrone Pants
The dramatic choice
Fancy fully leaning into the barrel-leg silhouette? Check out Madrone. These barrel-leg pants have curved seams providing dramatic yet soft shaping and very generous ease. The elastic and drawstring waist provides a comfortable, size-fluctuation-friendly fit. Topstitched seams give a utility feel, and the panels allow you to play with contrasting fabrics.
If you love the dramatic shape, take a look at the Sew Liberated Arthur Pants.
BF Patterns Parker Pants
The easy, everyday pair
For loungewear-level comfort with a fresh, modern twist, the Parker Pants are a sure-fire pick. Designed with wearability in mind, a relaxed fit makes Parker easy to throw on, while deep front scoop pockets and back patch pockets cover all the bases for your day-to-day routine. This would be my "throw-it-on-and-go" pick.
Tilly and the Buttons Winnie Trousers
The elusive flat-fronted elasticated waistband
Winnie is the trouser pattern your wardrobe's been waiting for. With a modern barrel leg shape, high waistline, and no-fuss elasticated waistband, Winnie is perfect for beginners and beyond looking for a simple, satisfying sewing project. Throw in handy pockets, and you've got a wardrobe staple you'll wear on repeat.
Sew Bake Make Baker Barrel Leg Pants
The playful pair
For the playful sewers in the house, this pattern is full of fun details that you are sure to enjoy sewing. Baker is a high-rise, elastic-waist utility pant that is perfectly slouchy. The shape comes from curved side seams and darted inner leg panels, and you have two views to choose from.
Emporia Patterns Roan Trousers
Casual cool with a jeans feel
The design is packed with jeans-style detailing, but without the faff of making actual jeans. The smidge of elastic in the back helps with fit and comfort, while the zip fly makes the finish feel polished.
So, what do you reckon? Are you ready to join the barrel leg gang? It's tempting, right? You can browse more barrel leg trouser patterns here.
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The Making Moves pants by Pattern Emporium have a subtle barrel shape and come in mid rise or high rise, with three pocket options
I agree with the comment regarding Style Arc patterns – they always make it clear that not all steps are illustrated, but I find more and more that printed or written instructions are all tending in this direction and many designers now encourage you to follow a video tutorial. I don’t like this approach as we use enough screens in our daily life and it’s cumbersome re-winding and re-playing the tricky bits. I also had no issues with Style Arc. But regarding the list, I have made the Emile twice and like it and the barrel look in general.
I have made 3 pairs of Bob pants so far and will make more for sure. However I also love the construction and shape of The Sew Different Tyto Pants. And shorts.
They have a fabulous paper bag waist (so easy)and options for pockets.I have made them in light weight denim.
I have some soft 8 whale corduroy lying around and have previously made some vv de ry comfortable bob pants with it – this list gives me ideas for the second pair of comfy trousers!
For those venturing into Barrel territory and think some are too full – or that think Bob is a bit too much at the hips- try Style Arc Barry! I just made a pair according to the size chart and they were a perfect fit. This was my first Style Arc pattern and the instructions were fine for me. I may shorten the legs a bit next time. There will definately be a next time. I’m 5’5 and have a 28 inseam.