Safety Notice: Handmade items made from this pattern may contain small parts or long cords that pose choking or strangulation risks. Not suitable for children under 3 years. Please see the full safety disclaimer at sewmag.co.uk/safety.
Stylish and versatile, harem pants can easily be dressed up or down and this flattering design by Amanda Walker allows you to create your own personalised pattern. The soft jersey and elasticated waist makes them comfortable to wear, plus you can practise gathering stitches, as well as overlocking or stretch stitches.
1 Work out your pattern using the diagram and Size guide. Draft onto paper or straight to fabric to cut the pieces, referring to the cutting guide.
2 Fold one pants leg in half lengthways, right sides together, matching the two inside leg edges. Pin, then stitch together with an overlocker or a sewing machine set to a stretch stitch. Repeat the process on the other leg to make the pair.
3 Turn one leg to the right side, place inside the unturned leg and match the crotch edges together, the back crotch being longer than the front. Pin and stitch together in one continuous seam. Set your sewing machine to a long gathering stitch and sew a row around the top of the pants. Pull the thread up to gather the waistline until it fits the length of the waistband strip, distributing the gathers evenly.
4 Cut a length of elastic to your waist measurement plus a 3cm overlap, and stitch the two ends together. Sew the ends of the waistband strip together, then place the ring of elastic in the centre on the wrong side of the jersey waistband ring. Match the join in the elastic to that in the waistband and fold the band in half, concealing the elastic inside. Machine stitch through all layers to hold the elastic in place.
5 Position the waistband at the top of the pants, right sides together, matching the seam in the waistband to the back crotch seam. Pin, then stitch. Overlock or zig zag stitch around the seam, close to the stitching line. The gathering stitch and the machine stitching can then be removed, enabling the waistband to stretch over your hips when you pull the finished pants on.