Making a pair of trousers

Pattern all cut out

For my birthday this year, ‘im outdoors has bought me a 6 week sewing course at our local haberdashery.  This is the same place I learnt to crochet a couple of years ago.  They are really nice there and although small they normally have the things you need.

Yesterday was my first session, 3 hours after work.

I’ve made dresses before but want to be able to make more complex patterns.  However to be honest they scared me, so when I saw a trouser making course I thought it would be perfect.

We started the session by selecting the pattern we wanted to work with.  There were 2 to chose from.  

Both would cover how to fit a pattern, pockets and zips but one was a little simpler while the other was a little more complex.  Of course I chose the most complex pattern.  Mostly because I liked the look of the trousers, but also because if there is a time to challenge yourself it’s when there is a tutor on hand to help you out if you get stuck.

Because trousers are so complex we are making a calico pair first.  This not only helps us to work out if they fit, but also give us some practice on some of the more complex things like pockets.

So most of the session was firstly cutting out the paper pattern, then cutting the pattern pieces out of calico and then there was just enough time left to start sewing, so I finished the class with one pocket competed and a second on the way.  Next week we should go faster as all our pieces are cut out and ready to go.

My first pocket

I was a bit worried that either I’d be out of my depth or too tired after work, but Alison our tutor was really patient with us and happy to answer any questions.  And as with all the best projects I was concentrating so hard on what I was doing that there was no time to feel tired or think about the rest of my day and the time flew.

I really enjoyed my first session and I can’t wait to go back next week and finish that pocket.