How to Sew Maternity Pants
Sewing maternity pants is not unlike sewing regular pants except that you'll need to sew in a panel made of flexible material in the top front. Using a pattern is a wise idea because you'll have a list of all you need, but it's certainly not required.
Items Needed:
- Pattern
- Sewing Notions
- Sewing Machine
- Scissors
- Find a pattern for maternity pants that you like, or a pattern for regular pants with an elastic waist. If you go with regular pants with an elastic waist, purchase about half a yard of stretchy material that matches your main fabric.
- Purchase all the sewing notions you'll need. Follow the list on the reverse of the pattern packet.
- Choose a fabric that has a bit of stretch to it for the pants. That will increase your comfort and ability to bend in the pants during pregnancy.
- Be sure to purchase more elastic than is listed on the pattern packet if you are using a regular pants pattern. Otherwise, follow the materials as listed on the maternity pattern.
- Read the directions included inside the pattern thoroughly. It is important to understand how the material is laid out and cut and how the pants are assembled.
- Lay out your fabric, cut out your pieces and assemble as directed to complete the pants. You are done if you used a maternity pattern. If you are using a regular pants pattern, cut out the pants fronts to 2.5 inches above the crotch or fold the pattern back and cut across the fabric at that point to leave the front open for the maternity panel.
- Turn the pants wrong side out and lay the stretchy panel over the open area in the front of the pants.
- Pin the panel of fabric in place with straight pins. Leave the stretchy material somewhat loose to allow for growth.
- Allow for a half-inch seam everywhere except the waist and cut out the panel to match the pants with the seam allowance. Cut across the fabric at the waist to match the pants.
- Sew the panel in, sew the ends of the elastic strip together for the waist, then roll the waist material down over it. Sew it in. Your pants are ready to wash and wear.