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Nil Kids Trousers

Relaxed straight-leg children’s trousers with an elastic waist, useful side pockets and an optional mock fly, for ages 2 to 15.

Nil Kids Trousers

Project preview

This video is for members

Join Lulu Ferris to watch the complete class and sew along at your own pace.

What you’ll make

The Nil Kids Trousers are relaxed everyday pants with roomy straight legs, a dropped rise and a comfortable elastic waist.

Functional side pockets hold small belongings. A topstitched mock fly gives the front a traditional trouser detail without requiring a zipper.

The simple shape works across seasons and leaves room for fabric, topstitching and pocket variations.

What you’ll learn in this class

  • Sew curved side pockets that stay neatly inside.
  • Secure the pocket layers before assembly.
  • Construct and topstitch the optional mock fly.
  • Join the crotch, side seams and inseams.
  • Sew an elastic casing without twisting the elastic.
  • Check the leg length and finish the hems.

Fabric choices

For cooler weather, choose corduroy, needlecord or denim. Poplin, cotton, viscose, linen and double gauze are lighter options for warmer seasons.

The sample uses micro-corduroy. The pockets can match the pants or use a contrasting fabric. Select the machine needle for the fabric type and weight.

Make it your own

Remove the mock fly from the pattern before cutting for a simpler front. On denim, parallel or reinforced topstitching can emphasize the pocket openings and fly shape.

You can remove the side pockets, add a patch pocket to the back or adjust the finished leg length to suit the child.

Sizes and measurements

The pattern includes sizes 2/3 through 14/15, covering heights of 95–170 cm, waists of 49–72 cm and hips of 54–88 cm.

The chart suggests lengths of 3 cm-wide elastic from 46–66 cm, depending on size. The amount may vary with the elasticity of the band.

The video class is accompanied by Nil pattern files in A4 and A0 formats and a size, elastic and fabric information sheet.

Pattern & materials

Patterns are included with membership

Active members can download every available PDF and materials list.

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