EASY 1-hour leggings! Step-by-step tutorial on how to draft and sew leggings that fit.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Who spotted my cat video bombing the tutorial? LOL - love that kitty, she is my sewing buddy!

[@YouullNeverWalkAlone]

She looks just like my eldest cat. He is my sewing buddy too.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

@@YouullNeverWalkAlone She is so funny, she loves the sewing machine and the serger, and fabric of course... Sewing space is unofficially her space :)

[@broganmckoko]

Oh I noticed her. I keep a cat tree next to my sewing machine. Whenever my kitty cats want attention they let me know by walking right in front of me. And then they play with my scraps of fabric from The Cutting Room floor. I don't need to make toys

[@aoshadon]

She's keeping your company and keeping you in check

[@shanaazmohammed7713]

I know I saw something 😂😂 i thought I was seeing things 🙈🙈🤣🤣

[@moiraberniegatt9491]

I’m so sad that ANYONE could write anything negative from your BRILLIANT AND FREE videos with such wonderful content every time. I wish there was a way if blocking people like that!!! Many thanks for all your hard work and sharing great advice

[@anainmazatlan]

Thank you so much for your efforts in teaching us pattern making! I have been sewing over 40 years and have never tried it until I saw your easy to follow videos. 🙏

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

My pleasure, Ana! Happy to hear that you are enjoying it and exploring your talents - that is the best part of sewing!!! :)

[@natashashepperd7069]

I didn't even notice the placement with the fabric until you mentioned it. I still didn't notice an issue, they're super cute. Loved your sewing buddy 💜

[@klwebuga]

Thank you for this fantastic tutorial! I drafted my pattern this afternoon and made my first pair of leggings with some pale blue jersey knit. I am going to be wearing these ALL WINTER! They are so comfortable, and a perfect fit for my shape. Thank you!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

That is so wonderful! Thank you for sharing and I hope you are super comfy this winter! :)

[@LaineyBug2020]

I love that you so concisely explain and demonstrate how to get each measurements needed and how to input them into the puzzle of the pattern we're custom building for our specific body. So much higher quality than 'lay everything on the floor and draw these shapes then sew it and see if it works' or 'trace a pair of pants you already have'...

[@Pixxelina]

So I purged my rented storage and found brand new Brother sewing machine and serger from a long forgotten Xmas. Every time I search youtube for a sewing project I have in my mind, your videos are the first ones to pop up. I’m in love with your chanel. Everything about it is so pleasing, the fabric patterns, your voice, your sewing setup, the way you explain in detail, ugh so much perfection. Plus, you’re the spitting image of my favorite Halliwell sister from Charmed, Piper played by Holly Marie Combs 💜🧡💜🧡

[@boephco]

You're a very good teacher!

[@TM12719]

I love your voice, I could hear it all day, it reminds me of Tommy from Rugrats

[@broganmckoko]

Another great pattern drafting tutorial Alissa. I used your Technique to draft a dartless bodice block. I have very narrow shoulders and this was the best fitted pattern I ever had period of all the Sewing KZbinrs I watch your lessons are the absolute best. Keep up the good work. PS don't obsess over the dinosaur butt. Any top you where is going to take attention away from that. No one will even notice it unless you point it out. Your little girl is adorable and very blessed to have you as a mom

[@lindahoffman8296]

Thank you so much for all your video’s! I’m a beginner and your video’s are so helpful. ❤

[@umiaq27]

You’ve spread so much joy into my sewing life!! Thank you for sharing your talents. You’re amazing 🤗

[@gerriebell2128]

Thank you for the very clear explanation. I just finished a pair of leggings using a commercial pattern, and THEN started watching how to videos, to try and understand how to draft the FIT. Your explanation of everything was the very clearest of all, especially on how to draw the crotch curve. One video used so many calculations, my head was spinning! I don’t draw very well, so most of the time I get a ready-made pattern and use drafting techniques to modify the pattern to fit me well. I am short and out of proportion and between sizes. I need to try your drafting at some point, though. Thank you again.

[@dianneunderwood8456]

You have inspired me to try making these leggings with a flared bottom hem. I enjoy wearing leggings and yoga pants so much and now you have given me the instructions to take on making my own! Thank you for your great tutorials.

[@judy6348]

Excellent! You are doing a Marvelous job. Love the video. Clearly explained and yes we all have made mistakes. Learn from it. You are growing and improving. I am really thinking about joining skillshare.

[@avrilrichardson3902]

Thank you so much for this. I see plenty leggings making in my future. Excellent tutorial.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

You know, me too! I have never been a legging person BUT they are so comfy to work from home AND don't need as much fabric as sweatpants with wide hem. :)

[@kimberlywiley7727]

I just admire how you can grab very simple supplies to draft your patterns and make beautiful outfits. Just goes to show you that you don’t need all the bells and whistles to make something pretty.

[@caroldoolam2310]

Thank yiu,love your honesty 😊.not a problem.

[@jackierairden385]

Wonderful! ❤ All your videos.

[@kathyburt3294]

I saw the kittie. Love kitties!! Loved how you explained to sew the two pieces together. So easy to understand. I didn't think the animals were placed badly at all. Pants looked so very very nice.

[@annesummers09]

Love your videos. (This one is clear as mud) LOL! I've been sewing since I was 14 and I am 70 and you lost me at the very beginning. I'll just buy mine at the store. LOL As for the print, I didn't even notice.

[@luthfiyyakhan9738]

I love your tutorials because you make everything so simple .

[@st4y-c4lm44]

Awesome. Thanks for sharing.

[@Tigertame4]

I am SO grateful for this video. I was trying to make leggings for my granddaughter. (she is short and chubby so patterns do not work). I followed your instructions for drafting the leggings and they FIT and are so cute. Now for school she will be all set with leggings that don't ride down.

[@yvonnejoy7962]

I appreciate your time and effort. I don’t judge or criticize, you are doing something I am too shy to do. I learned something new today bless you.

[@cynthiasymons]

This is an excellent video. You make drafting a pattern look easy. Well done.

[@izabeladoyle100]

I'm planning to make Christmas PJ for our family this year and this pattern is just perfect for the fabric that I got. Together with the raglan top my Christmas PJ are sorted. Thank you Alisa. PS. I would never notice dinosaur bottom ;)

[@kookykreek]

So funny to come here and see this comment because I just made the same comment of the Facebook page. I’ve been searching for fabric since last night.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

I saw both of your comments and thought the same - PJ's would be great!

[@mariaisles4450]

I HAVE HIGH FUNCTIONING AUTISM AND I ENJOY WATCHING YOUR VIDEOS BUT THE ADDED BONUS IS I CAN WATCH WITHOUT CAPTIONS AND VOLUME TURNED UP BECAUSE YOUR VOICE IS ALSO SOOTHING IVE BEEN SEWING FOR A VERY LONG TIME BUT I STILL LOVE TO WATCH BECAUSE METHODS CAN CHANGE OVER TIME AMAZING VIDEOS THANK YOU

[@margaretbeard6564]

The fit is perfect for you!

[@redietteshome720]

I'm so glad i subscribed to you!!

[@saritavishwakarma9038]

You explain in a very easy way and I like this way of yours. Thank you very much MAM 🥰

[@kimberlywiley7727]

Alisa, I love that fabric choice and your teachable moment about choosing/positioning certain fabric designs. I have some Ankara fabric with circular patten that I want to cut strategically. This is the learning in sewing.

[@catdee3534]

Thank you so much for all of your amazing information. I have been sewing since the 70s. I have put 2 patterns together, altered patterns and made just about everything, but all with patterns. I always thought pattern designing was for, well, designers, not seamstress! But thanks to you, I know I can make my own patterns, WOW! Your instructions are sew easy to follow. Always look forward to your videos.

[@gisellelawrence2367]

Made my first leggings using this tutorial...i had used -1/4 inch ease. My fabric was a very thin jersey stretch material...so i have to adjust the pattern to -1" ease. Also, the tip with putting the measuring tape between my legs to get the correct crotch depth was very helpful!! I was able to get the correct crotch depth on the first try! Thanks so much for this tutorial!!! I keep referring to your videos to help me draft tops, skirts, dresses and now pants!

[@Robin-qc4gn]

That waistband arrow trick was brilliant!! Wow!

[@fionahobbs8818]

I am loving your excellent videos! Thankyou!

[@wendynicholss6886]

Brilliant video I loved it, you voice is so beautiful!!

[@saviajane]

I loved the prints. Absolutely. My kid would've thought i was the coolest.

[@pharris1833]

Thank you for creating this pattern post and being transparent regarding the fabric position. All errors are learning experience will only make us better in the long run.

[@rebeccacamacho-sobczak4282]

You have introduced me to so many creative people!!!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

So glad! I am still amazed constantly at how creative and wonderful is this world and our sewing community!

[@chamalabesinghe1763]

Thank you somuch madam 🙏🙏♥️♥️♥️💐💐💐💐

[@dgarnett4220]

Sweet daughter your blessed with. Wonderful mom making clothes so sweet ❤

[@jeancoody5993]

Thank you. I will do this. A much needed basic tutorial

[@evelynkrainer9586]

Merci for the vidéo ❤, very usefull. ❤❤❤

[@paulines2215]

I think the fabric is very cute and perfect for PJ 👍

[@martbright]

You’re such an awesome person, thanks for being such a good teacher ❤

[@selaluasri79]

Great sharing👍😍

[@dollieschuster9106]

I really like leggings and wear them a lot. Thanks for the tutorial. Very easy to follow.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Glad it was helpful, I have a tutorial and instruction sheets for basic pants - this is a good place where to start and then progress onto leggings :)

[@heatherthrone9999]

I find that a 1 inch elastic band at my widest hip helps when working alone. Your pattern tutorials are the best +++×××

[@MadeByTriniLena]

Happy Friday Alisa❤️✂️🧵

[@sydneybristo22]

I adore the waist band!

[@realestateunlimited2261]

I love your tutorials! I have learned so much from you and you encourage me “to just do it”. Dinosaur but how cute! They are darling!

[@kamillasandera-zech4008]

Thank you Y are GRATE TEACHER .

[@sybilvane645]

Great video , we are learning as you learn as well.

[@mufithabuhari4021]

This is so great Alisa. Thank you so much ❤

[@MadeByTriniLena]

Love the waste band

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Happy Friday, Miss Arlene!

[@rosannet2931]

Thank you for all your wonderful videos.

[@reynachavez6059]

Thank you soo much for sharing your knowledge and your kindness. Can’t wait to make some pants!!!💕

[@charitymoran4504]

Love watching your videos, i sew garments for my kid, but for now beginner sewing of pouches and simple bags from native handwoven, watching from Benguet Philippines.

[@susanlatulippe6525]

You are amazing. You provide so much information. Can't wait to get back to sewing (broke my arm this winter)

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Get well soon, Susan and thank you so much for watching!

[@darknessfierce4209]

Your energy is good, normally I can’t sit thru the math. Thanks for the leggings drafting. ❤️ your 🐈 cat too.

[@angelahart2776]

Great tutorial. I learn so much from you. And please ignore The Haters or even better just Block them. Please keep the tutorials coming.

[@PeteJustPete]

Never apologize just say “I meant to do that.” 😉 … I love the progression of your lessons. (I do miss you mentioning your personal measurements during the drafting process since we have very similar numbers ☺️)

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Ah, thank you! Good point about the measurements, I totally get it that it helps if you have the same measurements, so sorry, but here's a bit of an insight why I removed them - I did a little experiment where I did a few videos without mentioning my measurements and found that 1) it is easier to watch and to understand, as you don't have too many numbers in the middle of drafting, just simple steps 2) a lot of people who have different measurements than me would be discouraged to try pattern drafting, as for some reason in their mind it only works for one set of measurements - I have no idea where this concept comes from, as there is no logical explanation to it... but since I removed my measurements from the videos I have seen a lot more people take the opportunity and just do it, which is what I really want to achieve - for people to try it and to do it and get great results!

[@dsego1183]

I agree never feel you have to apologize to critical viewers. Your right, the attention / main focus should be on the drafting and the construction of the pattern not the direction of the print of your fabric. Your a true professional and seamstress 👍👍

[@jojosewist8921]

@@ThoughtfulCreativity I think of your measurements as an example. They always help me be sure I understand the math formula you are using. Maybe if you used like huge numbers 100" for waist, 120" for hips,.hahe. But someone who didn't hear you would make a pair that size and blame you. I get it, the failure of people to listen, and rewatch amazes me. Everyone should at least skim the comments, too you answer questions that might help them. But as long as you keep posting these exceptional videos, I am happy and satisfied. I was too busy watching and listening to your instructions to notice dinosaur placement.....how cute!

[@myrnajose5421]

A very helpful tutorial. Thank you for sharing your idea.

[@elter1979]

Thank you very much, your tutorial is much appreciated.

[@ginangan8892]

You are so sweet and helpful, thanks

[@shanaazmohammed7713]

That fabric that you used for your leggings ARE SOOO CUTE😍😍😍

[@sunnydaysatl]

Thank you so much for giving great details. Can’t wait to make mines

[@berthamadonna]

Great fit! I love that you showed the print as you cut it because that is a reality of prints sometimes when we make (intentional) mistakes. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and wisdom!

[@dianakidd5688]

I was so Intent on your instructions & great tips, I never noticed your “dinosaur butt” (as you called it) What a shame than anyone would leave nasty comments for you, for Any reason ~ I love your tutorials and I’ve been sewing forever. Thanks for sharing your precious time & knowledge with us.

[@microfou]

Love your explanations ! Can’t wait to put them into action! Thank you

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Glad it was helpful and happy sewing!

[@lisaspears2960]

I just love the way you explain drafting patterns. You are such a great teacher! Keep up the good work! I do have a question for you. I am wanting to draft my own Boy shorts panties. But I haven't a clue as how to go about drafting them. Would this be something you would consider making a video for? If so Thank you in advance.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Lisa, hello there! You've got the right tutorial for it right in front of you :) just start with this legging draft, use only the top part for your undies and adjust as needed :)

[@lingdynasty4606]

Once again, your video is a hit. You taught me in great detail and this time you made me laugh!! Love it. Your leggings are adorable, even the dinosaur butt. Also love the kitty cat 🐱. Keep them coming! You rock... Again, THANK YOU.

[@clothingalterations]

Great tutorial 👍🌺🌱🌻🌳🌹🌴🏵🌱

[@MiauMichigan]

Thank you so much for showing us how to draw the pattern ❤️

[@karenscrazycutecrafts]

I don't see how anyone could be mean to you. Thank You for allowing us to see that we all make mistakes 🤷‍♀ 😊. Practice makes perfect right?1 !Right, and moving on to say I appreciate you making this great tutorial. 🥰

[@acuriousmindedseeker]

I think the dinosaur butt is cute, and wouldn’t hate wearing dinosaurs on my butt. I love watching you draft patterns, this was very helpful as usual! Thanks.

[@c.w.847]

VERY helpful. I always learn something new. I love your videos. Thanks so much!!

[@greta9163]

These are so cute! Love the fabric

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

I am matching my little ones outfit, she LOVES dinosaurs!

[@rhondaa18]

I just created a pant sloper based on your instructions, which were very good. I have attempted to create a sloper in the past based on a professional pattern designer’s instructions. I was not fully successful in getting the pant to fit as I had hoped. I have not cut out and sewed from my new sloper yet, but I am very optimistic based on how well the pattern from your leggings instructions came out. Fitting pants for me has been an adventure, but I keep getting closer! Thank you!!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Rhonda, that's a great start, thank you for sharing! Pants are all about fitting and it is not unusual to so 2-3 adjustments in the process, the key is to know what adjustments to make. Just a quick note - this video is for leggings and not for pants sloper, I wasn't sure if you followed instructions completely or used it as a base, but I wanted to clarify that as regular pants have a different amount of ease and other minor differences and I want to make sure you have a successful project without being disappointed.

[@rhondaa18]

@@ThoughtfulCreativity Yes, I was very aware instructions were for leggings and not pants. I did a bit of sewing translation from my previous instruction and experience. No worries 😊

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

@@rhondaa18 Awesome! Glad to hear that :) you rock :)

[@katef8700]

I love your clear & helpful tutorials! What a shame you feel you have to preempt mean commenters by explaining about the 'dinosaur butt' - on the other hand I found it funny & refreshingly honest! It's real life!

[@rogerhowl7815]

Love the dinosaurs 🦕

[@clairedriscoll8628]

What a great vlog thank you so much x

[@cturner9356]

Thanks for the great video! Could you please make a video about how to place patterns onto fabric considering the stretch of the fabric, etc?

[@sutela2060]

Great video😁 i just qute understood the E flush or minus, I wish you could explain what it is in cm

[@sydneybristo22]

Thank you so much! I'm so sorry some ppl can be so mean you are amazing your videos are so helpful I greatly appreciate them. Hug

[@momentobooks]

Dinosaur butt? Haha! You're so funny! I would NEVER have noticed if you didn't mention it! And boy, the ton of mistakes I made in my last 40 years of sewing, you would find it hilarious.

[@Denise11Schultz]

Thank you for making the fascinating shaping process so clear. I was wondering if you might show us how to draft socks from the same or similar spandex knit. Not sure if it would do better with 2-way or 4-way stretch. The instep seems like it would draft similar to the crotch. But it might be tricky to draft as 2 pieces instead of 4 (to keep the seams at the sides of the foot, not the top or sole of foot). I would love socks by themselves, and then you would be halfway to making footie pajamas too. ☺️🙏🧵. Thank you for considering this.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Great idea, but not sure if I am ever going to get to it, meanwhile, here's a free sewing pattern for socks I have used in the past - a good one. www.ellieandmac.com/products/sew-it-forward-sock-pattern

[@Denise11Schultz]

@@ThoughtfulCreativity Thank you so much, I will look forward to it. 💃🧵☺️

[@flosimonsen8162]

Wow, great instructions, I have never drafted a pattern before, but i am going to give it a go! I have some beautiful fsbric for a pair of fsll/ winter leggings. The first pair I made were too tight, but I will try again!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Flo, with leggings big Big role plays the fabric, use the fabric that is suggested in this video. The amount of stretch will also influence the amount of ease or negative ease you are using - you will need to playa around with it.

[@tinajohnson1880]

So adorable 🥰 love thes!

[@MaryAM-ll1ol]

Love this😊

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Yay! :)

[@vivenna]

Literally this morning I wondered whether you'll make a pattern drafting video for leggins or joggers with the upcoming autumn/winter months. Perfect timing and much appreciated as always! :) I also love the idea to have some cozy wide-leg cotton flannel pants that double as room and casual pants. Do you think I can take your woven shorts video and just lengthen the legs for some straight long pants? Most patterns have a fitted waistband, but I actually prefer to just make a pretty belt to go over a fully elastic waist... because comfort wins and it looks good :)

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Hello, hello :) you can totally do that with the short/culottes pattern, in fact a few Members in the FB group did that, they shared that they had to reduce the width of the legs on the long pants for their personal liking. Let me see, oh! I have a video from last year, or maybe 2 years ago, about copying your existing pants and then I made PJ pants out of it. Now I am planning on making lounge pants/PJ pants video, but probably out of knit! And... I actually took this base and widened it at the bottom and made myself a pair of knit pants for home. Members Extra video on these is coming and I will show a quick comparison between one pants leg and another.

[@vivenna]

@@ThoughtfulCreativity Awesome, thank you so much for your detailed reply! I'll check both the video and the fb group :) The lounge pants video would certainly get a lot of views, I bet. Ever since the pandemic started I truly realised how important comfortable and nice lounge pants for at home and a quick grocery run are 😄 I wish you a lovely day!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

@@vivenna 100% it is a very interesting shift in the society that I can see happening. I was raised with this understanding that if you go out you have to be put together often at the expense of your comfort, now... I still think that being put together is good even for mental health (for me anyway) BUT it does not have to be at the expense of comfort and just feeling free. Like you said - comfort is important, and I am happy to see that more and more people realize that!

[@vivenna]

@@ThoughtfulCreativity absolutely agree to that comment! That's why I love simple fabric belts on top of elastic waistbands. With a rolled hem on the overlock you can even have thin belt loops done in only a few minutes. And I recently bought a wooden round stick in a fitting diameter, that should hopefully make it faster to turn & iron the fabric belts. So tomorrow I'll have to make some pants + belt with your tutorials 😊

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

@@vivenna OMG, the rolled hem on the overlock - isn't it FANTASTIC??? I love it so much, and you can even do it in contrasting thread for an accent, but yes, I do belt like you as well, by the way, those shorts/culottes - I actually made a belt for them but did not show in the video. Oh, you make belt loops with rolled stitch? I actually make similar thread belt loops but by hand, that way when there is no belt - you don't have belt loops super visible!

[@joharrison7851]

Another lovely video Alisha. Must just check my fabric stash to see if I have any fabric to make these lovely pants.

[@oskarmolly]

Thank you so much for this video. I had fabric sitting out to make legging so you came at exactly the right time! Your kitty is so cute. I love cats. I just lost mine he as almost 19 years old and a new cat showed up at my door, I have no idea where he came from but he's made himself right at home.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Awwww, he found you! He knew the right timing to show up at your door! Cats are the best, and I only happened to have cats that are the sweetest friends, very social and lovable, they all have their own characters!

[@oskarmolly]

@@ThoughtfulCreativity Cats really do have their own personalities. Your pants are so cute! Who cares where the dinosaurs are, they are cute and most would never notice.

[@kmaevepowlick8234]

Your tutorials are so great! I was wondering if there is a reason that the back of the leg isn’t larger than the front as it is in your other tutorials. I’m on a mission to make well-fitting pants for my family!

[@jmcwill2002]

Sorry, I don't see an issue with the print placement. All over prints are all over, right? Looking forward to finding some time to make these. You look really adorable in yours!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Eh... If you look closer at the print placement in the front - it looks like a very poor attempt at pattern matching, and it looks pretty bad and same goes for the back. I would for sure never buy a garment with this print placement from the store... But it is good, I usually don't work with big prints like this for my garments, so I didn't even think of it when cutting, this is a good reminder for future :) These are very comfortable - been wearing them at home and love it! :)

[@parallaxe1]

I love your videos, even I as a sewing newbie have successfully sewn several garments by following your instructions. However, for this one I have a question: at time index 5:23 you talk about extending the crotch line by a quarter of its size. On the video it looks like the crotch line is 9 in long. But you only extend it by 2 in. Do I have to reduce the quarter by a bit?

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Hmmmm.... thinking.... no, no, I don't hide anything in the videos. Since this was recorded a long time ago - I can't remember exactly, but my honest guess would be 1) I was accounting for the thick lines of a marker, 1/4 of 9 is 2.25, and those lines are thick to be able to show on camera, so I might have accounted for that as I have done that in the past 2) I might have been refilming it, which is not uncommon, sometimes it take 2-3-4-5 takes to get the good shot, sometimes the camera won't focus, other times mic will go into echo, so I might have made another draft and just done it very quickly and instead of 2 1/4 I took 2. I am so incredibly sorry for confusion, but thank you for reaching out and congrats on your successful projects, so happy to hear that!

[@Kaidantonio333]

Hello, can this method apply to men's leggings, or just women's?

[@christinabarnes1105]

When you drew your square for your crouch, it was only 1 inch but you said one and 3/8. It looks like just the inch square that you made and then that 45° angle can you explain to me the Crouch part that you’re talking about thank you.

[@sydneybristo22]

Seriously that waist hack should be its own video but you prob have that already

[@michellepark778]

The leggings pattern could be used as your pattern block for sewing your own trousers/ joggers etc too