Drafting A Shorts Pattern For Any Size | Beginner Sewing Pattern Drafting

In this lesson from Sewing From Scratch, we learn how to draft a simple elastic-waist shorts pattern using your own measurements. This beginner-friendly method walks you through the measurements and tools needed to start drafting your pattern step-by-step. You don’t need fancy equipment or professional pattern paper — just a few basic tools and a large sheet of paper. This approach focuses on clarity and consistency, not perfection. Curves can always be refined later — the goal is to build a usable pattern that fits your measurements. If you're new to sewing or pattern drafting, this is a great place to start. Because the best way to learn sewing… is by sewing. What You'll Learn in This Video • The measurements needed to draft elastic-waist shorts • How to calculate the hip arc • What types of paper work best for pattern drafting • Simple tools you need to draft a sewing pattern • Practical tips for clean, clear drafting Measurements You’ll Need Before drafting, gather the measurements from the previous lesson: • Waist circumference • Hip circumference • Hip depth • Crotch depth • Desired shorts length • Hip arc (hip circumference ÷ 4) Tools for Drafting You only need a few basic tools: • Long ruler or quilting ruler • French curve (optional but helpful) • Pencil with eraser • Tape • Large pattern paper Paper Options for Pattern Drafting You can draft patterns using many types of paper, including: • Pattern paper • Drawing pad or art paper • Craft or packing paper • Medical exam table paper • Butcher paper Sewing From Scratch This video is part of the Sewing From Scratch learning series — a project-based approach designed to help beginner sewists build real skills step-by-step while making useful projects. 🌐 Learn more: Visit my website: https://TerriStevenson.com ☕ Support the project: The learning is free. If you’d like to support my work and help me keep creating new lessons, you can buy me a coffee. https://TerriStevenson.com https://buymeacoffee.com/cosmicquilz