What measurements do you need?
- Waist measurement
- Hip measurement
- Inseam measurement
Before starting, you’ll need to take three key measurements – the waist, hip, and inseam – to determine the optimal amount of fabric required for your pants. Make sure you have an accurate measurement for each to avoid any discrepancies.
How do you calculate fabric yardage?
To calculate the fabric yardage, you’ll need to use the following formulas:
- For waist: Add 2 inches to your waist measurement. Divide this number by 36 to convert it to yards.
- For hip: Add 2 inches to your hip measurement. Divide this number by 36 to convert it to yards.
- For inseam: Divide your inseam measurement by 36 to convert it to yards.
Once you have the fabric yardage for each of the above measurements, you can add them together to determine the total yardage needed for your pants.
What if your measurements fall between sizes?
If your measurements fall between two sizes, it’s generally recommended to choose the larger size. This ensures you have enough fabric to work with, preventing any potential shortages during the sewing process. It’s always better to have a little extra fabric that can be trimmed if needed than facing the frustration of running short.
Accounting for pattern repeats
If you’re using a patterned fabric with a distinct design or print, it’s important to account for pattern repeats when calculating your fabric yardage. Pattern repeats refer to the repetition of the design or print on the fabric. Depending on the size of the pattern repeat, you may need additional fabric to align the pattern correctly on your pants.
To calculate the additional fabric yardage needed for pattern repeats:
- For the waist and hip: Multiply the pattern repeat by 2 and add it to the corresponding measurement.
- For the inseam: Multiply the pattern repeat by 2 and add it to the inseam measurement.
By taking pattern repeats into consideration, you can ensure your pants have a seamless and professional-looking design.
Final Thoughts
Calculating the right amount of fabric for women’s pants is crucial for a successful sewing project. By accurately measuring your waist, hip, and inseam and considering factors like pattern repeats, you can be confident in purchasing the appropriate amount of fabric. Remember, it’s always better to have a little extra fabric than to run short and compromise the quality of your pants. Happy sewing!