Pattern Roundup: Pants for Garb
I was putting together a list of how-to-make-trousers tutorials for a fellow fighter, and I thought it might be a useful resource for other folks. It’ll also be a resource for me, so I don’t have to go hunting for links every time I’m trying to help someone out. :)
Before we begin, remember:
If you’re going to be fighting in your pants, I highly recommend picking a pattern that includes a crotch gusset (like Nova’s Rus pants, or my basic pants with gusset), so you’ll have full range of motion. Nothing is sillier than ripping your trouser-crotch in the midst of battle!
Most of these patterns will work well in any “bottomweight” fabric. If you’re using linen, consider going up to a heavier 7 oz linen, so your pants will last longer.
This isn’t nearly a complete list of All the Pants, Ever: it’s just tutorials I’ve tried and liked. If you know of other great tutorials, let me know, and I’ll add them to the list!
Some of these are based on medieval garments, some of these are more fanciful, and some of these are modern, but still useful for our purposes. Use what you like, and ignore the rest!
And without futher rambling: here are some pants you can make for LARP/SCA/Dagorhir/medieval costuming!
Ask the Costume Goddess: How to Make Harem Pants
Rashid’s Persian Salwar Pattern
Nova’s Rus Pants Tutorial (pdf warning)
Markland Basic Costuming Standards: Braies and Trousers
Making a Pair of Thorsbjerg Trousers
How to Make Perfect-Fitting Pajama Bottoms (from existing pants)
Ilsa’s Basic Pants with a Gusset
How to Sew a Churidar (Leggings)
And lastly, because I’m a rebel, I like to add side seam pockets to my garb skirts and trousers. These aren’t “period,” but since A. I play a medieval fantasy game, and B. my character needs somewhere to store her ever-present handfuls of shiny rocks, acorn caps, trinkets for trading, and healing potions, I think they’re justifiable. ;)
Happy pants-making!