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Member since 12/27/09
Posts: 7
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Posted on: 5/18/14 4:52 PM ET
Hi, What is the best way to take the width out of a pants pattern from about the knee down? I just feel they are too wide. Do I just taper from the knee down? Thank you, Missy
  
Member since 12/25/06
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Posted on: 5/18/14 5:36 PM ET
HI Missy, yes you can taper from the knee down, reducing both the side seam and inseam by the same amount. HTH.
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Julie, Perth, WA
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Member since 12/30/12
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Posted on: 5/19/14 9:08 AM ET
In reply to MissyH
Figure out the circumference you want at the hem then go out EQUALLY from the grainline on each side to equal your final measurement. So say you want 16" total...you would go 4" from each side of the grainline on both front and back...plus your seam allowance. Draw your new cutline tapering fro the knee or there about.
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"Persistence can change failure into extraordinary achievement."
- Marv Levy

"Love the life you live, Live the life you Love" ~Geni
  
Member since 10/6/11
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Posted on: 5/19/14 9:32 AM ET
In reply to MissyH
Quote: MissyH
Hi, What is the best way to take the width out of a pants pattern from about the knee down? I just feel they are too wide. Do I just taper from the knee down? Thank you, Missy

If it's just a small amount, say no more than 2" total... then, yes it is mathematically sound in theory to just pinch 1/2" on each side and blend up into the knee. But this is assuming they hang perfectly balanced on you in the first place.

I think it would be more ideal to put the pants on and see how they hang on you first. It's entirely possible that they might wing out more on the outseam than on the inseam.. and if that were the case you would taper in the appropriate amount on either seam respectively.

But wait, there's more! lol Be sure and look at your side view with them on to examine if the side seam is hanging straight down. If for example the side seam is swinging to the front of your body, that tells us you have to take more from ONLY the back pant seam than the front pant to balance it out and also arriving at the circumference you want (with also taking in the inseam if needed).
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-Catina
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Posted on: 5/19/14 9:46 AM ET
In reply to Catina
I always appreciate everything you share here. Thank you!
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Mary


  
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