Women's Athletic Shorts
We’ll show you step by step how to sew comfortable women’s athletic shorts that are perfect for working out or simply staying comfortable—and the pattern is included!
Video class
This video is for members
Join Lulu Ferris to watch the complete class and sew along at your own pace.
What you’ll make
Sew comfortable women’s shorts for exercise, everyday wear or relaxing at home. The stretch-knit design has a wide waistband that can sit high at the waist or fold down toward the hips.
The pattern is intentionally short, but you can lengthen it. Optional buttonholes and a drawstring add a functional detail to the waistband.
What you’ll learn in this class
- Cut mirrored pieces from knit fabric.
- Set up a sewing machine for stretch fabric.
- Construct the legs and curved rise.
- Reinforce optional drawstring buttonholes.
- Distribute the waistband evenly.
- Finish stretch hems with several stitch options.
Fabric and supplies
Choose knit or athletic fabric and use a ballpoint or stretch needle. A walking foot and twin needle are helpful but optional.
Add cord, ribbon or another tie for the drawstring version. The class uses a serger but also explains how to finish the seams with a zigzag or another stretch stitch.
Make it your own
Wear the waistband unfolded or folded down. The drawstring can be omitted, and its buttonholes may face either outside or inside.
Lengthen the legs for more coverage. Pair the shorts with the women’s athletic top or the raglan sweatshirt.
Sizing
The included pattern comes in S, M, L, XL and XXL.
The video shows the complete shorts construction, including options for serger and regular-machine finishes, and includes the downloadable pattern.
Pattern & materials
Patterns are included with membership
Active members can download every available PDF and materials list.