Do any of you know of a simple sewing pattern for making slim boy’s trousers? Something that doesn’t look “homemade”, but that doesn’t have so many details they take ages to make? He’s got a 21″ waist and a 22″ inseam. I’d like them a little longer, but I think I can fix that easy enough–though I’ve had some trouble with distortion on his PJ pants when I try to add more than about 4″. If anyone knows why I get distortion, I’d be tickled to know how to fix it. I’d also like the back to be elastic for more comfort and *fingers crossed* a bit longer wear in case he finally decides to get a bit thicker…ha!
Anyway, I found a pattern from MakeItPerfect called High Flyers that are similar to what I have in mind, but don’t know where to buy them here or if there is a better option out there. So if any of you have pattern suggestions (or even RTW suggestions that won’t break the bank!) I’d be more than thrilled to hear them. I know I’m not the only one with a scrawny (but adorable!) boy!
And in case it helps, for those who are still in the age group to buy jeans in the adjustable waist category, I can say that the ones by Levi (style 549) in the slim fit worked pretty well for us, even if they were just a smidge short most of the time for a kid of average height. (They aren’t cheap though, so definitely hit the the sales.) Sadly, my son has outgrown the elastic waistband size range, so I’m out of luck there.
Splinters & Stitches 
Someone suggested I look into this: http://www.danamadeit.com/2013/06/new-pattern-kid-shorts-are-here.html. I cannot imagine it would be difficult or distort if you lengthened it to pants. Looks pretty easy, but with many options to embellish (time and desire, permitting, of course).
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Ooh those shorts are CUTE!!
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You try the Jalie men’s patterns. They are multi sized and could be a good template for drafting a pattern that fits. Good luck!
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Good point, I actually even have the Jalie men’s trousers that I’ve made for my husband and didn’t even think about for the little guy. I might have to give that a try!
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The latest issues of Ottobre magazine have had some great slim pants patterns, and many of them are elasticated in back. I make all of the pants and shorts my boys wear, and pretty much only sew from Ottobre for them. Their patterns are superb. You can check out all of their patterns here – http://www.ottobredesign.com/ and order back issues here – https://www.ottobredesign.com/subscription/single.php
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Thanks! I’ve looked at the women’s version before, but never thought to check out their kid’s patterns. Will check that out to see if there’s something like I have in mind. 🙂
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I think I remember reading somewhere (??) that denim/twill can easily go off grain when cutting out, and that can cause the twisting. Cutting out single layer and being diligent/anal about cutting on grain should stop the twist.
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I hadn’t heard that, but it very well could be part of my problem. Sera pointed out too about extending and putting the knee in the wrong place, which since my pattern pieces never seem to look quite right in the end, I could see how that could be part of it too.
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I can’t help with kids clothing but one issue with extending pants could be where the knee is. Just adding to the bottom could mean that if there is shaping for the thigh to knee (which I would expect in slim cut pants) it’s not in the right spot.
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I think it’s probably a bit of this and a bit of what ElleC mentioned. I’m not sure if I somehow FUBAR the grainline on the pattern when I do the extension or what.
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