Date: 11/17/09 10:50 AM

Hope that I've put this is the proper forum...I'm attempting to make gymnastic shorts for my granddaughter. I'm still what I would call a "beginner" since I sew here and there. Her hip size is in a smaller size than her waist and I would rather it be a bit roomy in the hip/leg area so that it's not super tight but the waist for that pattern piece is 24 and she's 26 1/2. Could anyone instruct me on how, or if it's possible to increase the waist on the patter piece before I cut? I also am not sure what type of stitching I should be using for seams with stretch/leotard material. I'm assuming zig zag. Any help would be appreciated!

Reply to jakers
Date: 11/17/09 12:10 PM

You are right, use a zig zag stitch so that the seams won't pop when the fabric stretches.....run a few tests on your cutting scrap to figure out the best width/length combination for your fabric. Normally the zig zag doesn't need to be too wide.

To increase the waist, I would slash the front and back pattern pieces from the waist to almost the hip line and then spread each piece by 1/4 of the total you are adding. The increase at the waist will taper to nothing at the hip.

Hope this helps.

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2009: bought 140 yards, used 184 yards, net increase in volunteer fabric 44 yards ... total stash 385

Date: 11/17/09 1:01 PM

Thank you!!