These shorts started out as this
I took a pair of Bean’s shorts that fit him and folded them so I could see just one side and laid them on top of one of the jeans legs.
I traced around the seams, staying straight where the waist pinches in
I used this pattern piece flipped over to cut out the other leg for the shorts. Then I cut out two pockets, just kind of guesstimating based on the pocket on the shorts I was using as a pattern.
I serged around the edges of the pockets (if you don’t have a serger, I would zig-zag and used pinking shears)
I folded under the serged edges and ironed, then topstitched down the top edge. For an authentic jeans look, use upholstery thread and a large sewing needle, like a size 90/14
Pinned the pockets into place on the back sides of the shorts
And topstitched them into place
Put the two pieces right sides together and sew the curved seams
Open up the shorts so you can sew the inseams
I serged around the top edge. If you don’t have a serger, fold this over and press.
Cut a length of 1″ elastic to your toddler’s waist size and zig-zag into a loop
Fold the waistband over the elastic, and sew it down.
And for $3 I paid for the jeans, both Bean and I got shorts!
And is there anything cuter than a toddler tush?
kendascrafts
Great idea! I have loads of old pants that I want to make into shorts/pants for my toddler. Thanks for showing your how-to.
Brave Brooke
These are great! Awesome job! I love how you repurposed the old jeans.
folkhaven
These came out so professionally-made looking! Very cute! I have always sewn the elastic casing and then pulled through the elastic. I want to give your method a try the next time I make pants or shorts for my little guy.
Becca
I just joined your blog. I’m totally into modifying clothing as well. Actually, just rediscovered my love for sewing and discovered the fun in modifying clothing. These shorts are so cool! I recently made a pair of toddler jeans out of a woman’s sized pair of jeans. What fun!
Naomi
great idea must try for my son will post you soon after i finish
Kate
Thanks for the tutorial, will definitely be trying this one out. Did you make the shirt too? I love it.