Thread: need a pattern for tribal pants

I'm looking for a pattern for tribal style pants, or a pattern I can adapt. All the ready made ones I've tried on are too long. I returned a pair recently to Dahlal because as much as I loved them, I'm too short and I'm afraid of tripping if I perform in them!

I saw this thread on some how to's re: shortening pants w/o hemming.
silly question re: Melos
But I have tons of fabric ( 10 large plastic boxes full!) so I'm thinking of making a pair myself. I won't be wearing them much so making them will be a plus. Any suggestions will be appreciated.
Patricia

Originally Posted by ra-chell

I'm looking for a pattern for tribal style pants, or a pattern I can adapt. All the ready made ones I've tried on are too long. I returned a pair recently to Dahlal because as much as I loved them, I'm too short and I'm afraid of tripping if I perform in them!

I saw this thread on some how to's re: shortening pants w/o hemming.
silly question re: Melos
But I have tons of fabric ( 10 large plastic boxes full!) so I'm thinking of making a pair myself. I won't be wearing them much so making them will be a plus. Any suggestions will be appreciated.
Patricia

I've never used this pattern but it is similar.

Adira Dance and Costume - Dancewear for all dance styles.: B.D. Pattern #3007 Pants with Flared Insets and One Shoulder Top

Hey thanks! Love the look of the pattern and I have never heard of Adira Dance and Costume - Dancewear before but I will be checking out her patterns! Thanks for telling me about them!
Patricia

Here are some mainstream patterns for knit pants that could be adapted:

M4261 | Misses'/Miss Petite Unlined Jacket, Top, Bra, Pants In 2 Lengths, Skirt and Bag | Activewear | McCall's Patterns
B4807 | Misses'/Misses' Petite Pants and Sash | Pants/Shorts | Butterick Patterns (If you're near a Hancock Fabrics, Butterick patterns should be on sale the last week of January--check your local ad.)
KWIK SEW Pattern 3660
KWIK SEW Pattern 3115

And a costume pattern for a funkier look.
Simplicity Creative Group - Misses' Costumes

Thanks Tourbeau! I went and checked and I have both the Kwik sew patterns you listed! And I have made a pair of pants from the 3115 before! How funny you should mention both patterns! I may use it again if I can't find something else I like better.
Patricia

Originally Posted by Tourbeau

Here are some mainstream patterns for knit pants that could be adapted:

M4261 | Misses'/Miss Petite Unlined Jacket, Top, Bra, Pants In 2 Lengths, Skirt and Bag | Activewear | McCall's Patterns
B4807 | Misses'/Misses' Petite Pants and Sash | Pants/Shorts | Butterick Patterns (If you're near a Hancock Fabrics, Butterick patterns should be on sale the last week of January--check your local ad.)
KWIK SEW Pattern 3660
KWIK SEW Pattern 3115

And a costume pattern for a funkier look.
Simplicity Creative Group - Misses' Costumes

Originally Posted by ra-chell

Thanks Tourbeau! I went and checked and I have both the Kwik sew patterns you listed! And I have made a pair of pants from the 3115 before! How funny you should mention both patterns! I may use it again if I can't find something else I like better.
Patricia

This may not be all that helpful, depending on how confident you are with your sewing...
When I make my 'tribal' dance pants, I tend to grab an existing pair of pants that fit me well (not always dance pants) and use them to trace my crotch/back seam/hip area, and mark length. If they are dance pants, I may also trace the thigh out. I then mark out the flared bit according to amount of material available, amount of flare I want, etc - often free-handing it. The stretch material is usually rather forgiving, and if you're not certain, just cut a little wider to start with - it's easy to take in. Just use a measuring tape to make sure none of the flare hangs down longer than your total length.

Thank you for the advice! I'm not sure I am as brave as you but it is worth a try! Great tip!

Originally Posted by superbunny

This may not be all that helpful, depending on how confident you are with your sewing...
When I make my 'tribal' dance pants, I tend to grab an existing pair of pants that fit me well (not always dance pants) and use them to trace my crotch/back seam/hip area, and mark length. If they are dance pants, I may also trace the thigh out. I then mark out the flared bit according to amount of material available, amount of flare I want, etc - often free-handing it. The stretch material is usually rather forgiving, and if you're not certain, just cut a little wider to start with - it's easy to take in. Just use a measuring tape to make sure none of the flare hangs down longer than your total length.

I agree with the lady above: just use what you have that fits well. Most commercial patterns end up being a high-waisted mess (for me, anyway). And you don't even need to destroy your favorite pair of yoga pants, you can simply trace with a pin. you do your template once and then you can make as many pants as you want.