How to Sew Bloomers

Bloomers are a versatile and comfortable addition to any wardrobe, perfect for layering under skirts, dresses, or simply wearing as loungewear. Sewing your own pair of bloomers is a rewarding project that allows you to customize the fabric, fit, and decorative details to suit your personal style.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewer, this guide on how to sew bloomers will walk you through the steps to create a pair of bloomers with ease.

Benefits of Sewing Your Own Bloomers

Sewing your own bloomers offers numerous benefits that go beyond simply creating a piece of clothing. Firstly, it allows for complete customization. You can choose the fabric, color, and patterns that best suit your style and preferences, making your bloomers truly one-of-a-kind. Additionally, you have control over the fit, ensuring maximum comfort by tailoring them to your exact measurements.

Sewing your own garments is also a sustainable choice, as it reduces reliance on fast fashion and allows you to use eco-friendly or recycled materials. Furthermore, the process of sewing is a creative and therapeutic activity that enhances your skills and provides a sense of accomplishment. By making your own bloomers, you invest in quality, uniqueness, and an opportunity to express your personal creativity.

Materials Needed

• Fabric Suggestions.
• Lightweight Cotton, Linen, Muslin for Breathability.
• Jersey Knit for Stretch Versions.
• Elastic for Waist and Leg Openings (1/4 to 1-inch Wide).
• Sewing Machine (Can Be Hand-sewn With Patience).
• Scissors or Rotary Cutter.
• Pins or Clips.
• Measuring Tape.
• Safety Pin (for Threading Elastic).
• Optional: Decorative Trims (Lace, Ruffles, Bias Tape).

9 Step-by-Step Guidelines on How to Sew Bloomers

Step 1: Choose Your Fabric

Selecting the right fabric is an essential first step in sewing bloomers. Consider fabrics that align with your comfort and the intended use of the garment. Lightweight cotton, linen, or muslin are excellent choices for breathable and versatile bloomers, perfect for warmer weather or casual wear.

For a stretchy fit, opt for jersey knit fabric, which works great for snug yet flexible versions. Be sure to pre-wash your fabric to account for any shrinkage before cutting your pieces. This step ensures your finished bloomers retain their intended size and fit after washing.

Step 2: Prepare the Pattern

You can either download and print a pattern online or create your own by using a pair of shorts that fit well as a guide.

Trace around the shorts, adding about 1/2 inch seam allowance on all sides except for the waistband (add additional inches depending on how high you want the waistband to be).

Step 3: Cut Out the Fabric

Lay your fabric on a flat surface, ensuring it is smooth and free of wrinkles. Pin your pattern pieces to the fabric securely to prevent them from shifting while cutting. Use sharp fabric scissors to cut carefully around the edges of the pattern, following the outlines you’ve made.

Make sure to cut along the seam allowance and any adjustments you’ve included in the waistband or hem. Double-check that you’ve cut out all necessary pieces before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Sew the Side Seams 

With all your fabric pieces cut out, it’s time to start assembling your project by sewing the side seams. Begin by pinning the side edges of your fabric pieces together with the right sides facing each other. Align the edges carefully and ensure the pins are placed perpendicular to the seam to make sewing easier. 

Using your sewing machine, sew along the pinned edges, following the seam allowance marked on your pattern. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam to secure the stitches. Once you’ve sewn the seams, remove the pins and press the seams open with an iron for a polished finish. This will help your garment or project take shape and prepare it for the next steps in the assembly process.

Step 5: Sew the Inseam

To sew the inseam, align the fabric pieces with the right sides facing each other, ensuring that the inseam edges match up perfectly. Pin along the inseam to secure the fabric in place, paying special attention to the crotch area where the front and back seams meet.

Once pinned, start sewing from one ankle up to the crotch and down to the other ankle, following the seam allowance specified in your pattern. Remember to backstitch at both ends to lock the stitches. After sewing, remove the pins and press the seams open with an iron for a smooth and professional finish. This step brings the inner structure of your garment together and helps shape it more clearly.

Step 6: Create an Elastic Casing

To create the elastic casing for your garment, start by folding the waistband edge down towards the inside of the fabric. Fold it by the width of your elastic plus an additional 1/4 inch to allow for seam allowance. Pin the fold in place to ensure it remains even all the way around. Next, sew along the folded edge using a straight stitch, leaving a small gap of about 2 inches unsewn.

This gap will be used to insert the elastic later. Take care to keep your stitching even and consistent, as this will create a clean, professional finish. Once the casing is secured, you’re ready to move on to threading the elastic.

Step 7: Insert Elastic

Measure your waist or hips (depending on where you want the bloomers to sit) and cut a piece of elastic that is about an inch shorter than your measurement.

Attach a safety pin to one end of the elastic and use it to guide the elastic through the casing. Once it reaches back around to the opening, overlap both ends of the elastic by about an inch and sew them together securely.

Step 8: Close the Opening 

With the elastic securely sewn, tuck the overlapped section into the casing. Use a needle and thread or a sewing machine to stitch the opening of the casing closed. Be careful to ensure your stitches align with the rest of the casing for a seamless look.

Once finished, stretch the waistband slightly to distribute the elastic evenly within the casing. Your bloomers are now complete and ready to wear!

Step 9: Finish Hem

To finish off the bottom of the bloomers, fold up the raw edge by about half an inch and sew along the folded edge. Give it another press with an iron to create a crisp hem.

Congratulations! You have now completed your very own pair of bloomers. You can customize them further by adding lace or ribbon trim or even using a printed fabric for a fun patterned look.

Do You Need to Use Professionals?

Sewing your own bloomers is a delightful and beginner-friendly project that doesn’t require professional expertise. With basic sewing tools, a sewing machine, and some patience, you can achieve fantastic results right at home.

However, if you’re short on time or don’t feel confident in your sewing skills, seeking help from a professional tailor or seamstress is always an option. Professionals can help bring more intricate designs or adjustments to life, ensuring a perfect fit and finish. Ultimately, the choice depends on your comfort level and the complexity of the desired style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I Make Bloomers Without a Sewing Machine?

A1: It is possible to hand sew bloomers, but using a sewing machine will make the process much faster and easier. If you don’t have a sewing machine, consider borrowing one from a friend or family member, or look into local sewing classes where you can use their machines.

Q2: Can I Use Different Fabrics for Bloomers?

A2: Absolutely! The great thing about bloomers is that they can be made with a variety of fabrics to create different looks and styles. Just make sure the fabric you choose is lightweight and breathable for comfort.

Q3: Are Bloomers Only for Women?

A3: No, bloomers were originally worn by both men and women in the 19th century as undergarments. Nowadays, they are more commonly associated with women’s fashion, but anyone can wear them if they choose to. There are even patterns available for men’s bloomers.

Q4: Can I Wear Bloomers as Outerwear?

A4: Yes, you certainly can! Many modern styles of bloomers are designed to be worn as outerwear and can be paired with a cute top or blouse for a fashionable and unique look. However, traditional bloomers may still be seen as undergarments and should be worn accordingly.

Conclusion

Bloomers have evolved significantly over the years, transitioning from a practical undergarment of the past to a versatile and stylish piece of modern fashion. Whether worn as outerwear or for comfort beneath other clothing, bloomers offer both functionality and a touch of timeless charm.

Their adaptability makes them a wonderful addition to any wardrobe, and with so many styles available, there’s a perfect pair of bloomers for everyone. Thanks for reading this article on how to sew bloomers.