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I came across my DIY paper bag pants in my wardrobe. Mine have tapered legs, which I had so much fun making.
With the gathering at the midsection, they create the high-waist look. I find them rather flattering, comfy, and cute.
I’ll tell you more about which pattern I used, the materials, my process, and share photos. You might want to make some too!
Megan Nielsen Opal Pattern
The Opal sewing pattern has four variations of elastic waist pants and shorts. You can make them with side seam or patch pockets, belt loops, and tie belt.
I made my pants with tapered legs, but they still have that relaxed look. You can also make wide-legged pants, which would give you even more room.
This is a beginner-friendly pattern. It’s easy to sew, and the directions are very clear.
Materials
Here’s everything I used to make this garment. I love the simplicity of it.
Fabric
After debating between a few fabrics, I made my paper bag pants with chambray. It’s a 4-ounce cotton in dark blue from Joann.
Chambray is a light-weight denim, but with a much softer feel. It has a nice drape for making shirts, skirts, pants, and shorts.
But, since it’s cotton, it tends to wrinkle. So, keep that in mind.
Depending on the fabric you use, you can make your pants dressier or more casual.
If you use a more silky fabric, you’d have a dressier look. You could wear them for a fancy dinner instead of a dress or skirt.
Other suggested fabrics include linen, Tencel, rayon, poplin, viscose, satin, charmeuse, crepe, and wool.
Notions
The only notion I used was 1-1/4 inch (1.25-inch) knit elastic for the waistband. You can also use 1-inch elastic instead.
Needle
I used a size 80/12 universal needle to sew the muslin. For the pants, I used a size 90/14 universal needle.
Thread
There was no shortage of matching Gutermann thread for my sewing machine. It’s made of 100% polyester.
For finishing the seams on my serger, I used Maxi-Lock spun thread. It’s also made of 100% polyester.
Sewing My Pants
Sewing this pattern was pretty straightforward. The directions and pictures were very easy to understand and follow.
Prepping
My first step was to make a mockup to check the sizing. This was the first time I had used a Megan Nielson sewing pattern.
Since it’s a PDF, I printed it out and assembled the pieces. This took time, and I made a step-by-step tutorial on how to do this.
Then, I determined my size. I noticed this brand had more precise sizing than the commercial patterns I usually use.
With Simplicity and McCall’s, I’m between sizes. I have to size up and adjust from there.
With the Opal pattern, I could choose my exact size. So I didn’t have to do any grading. Yeah!
Construction
After cutting all the pattern pieces, I got to work. First, I sewed the inseam pockets to the sides.
Then I sewed those long sides and inner seams. I attached the belt loops to the pants. The casing and fitting of the elastic came next.
Then I hemmed the pant legs. I always save this part for last because I need to have the elastic in the waistband and this thing fitting around my middle first.
Then I know how much I need to take up for the hem. Although I checked the length when making the mockup, I still do the hem last.
I finished the whole pattern in a couple of hours, which was a fast sew for me.
As I sewed these, they came together nicely. It was exciting because I didn’t even make one mistake. Unbelievable.
I couldn’t believe I didn’t have to use my seam ripper! Now that is rare.
Adjustments
Although this pattern is easy, you’ll still have to know how to fit the pants. Luckily, they are relaxed fit, so you have a little ease.
When I made my mockup, the pants were pulling in the back. So I knew I had to lengthen the crotch.
This was the only adjustment I made. I have a high waist and long legs, so it’s typical for me.
And that’s why I make my own pants. The store-bought ones never fit me well.
Finishing Touches
Okay, the last thing it did besides the hems was the tie belt. Oh, it’s so cute with the paper bag waist.
You don’t have to make it, and you could use a different belt. But I like this one, as it matches the fabric and color.
Project Notes
Keep in mind that many paper bag pants are usually meant to be worn high on the waist. And I have a high waist already!
Mine aren’t up on my natural waist, but they creep up higher than my other pants. So, if you don’t like this look, you can adjust the front and back length.
If you like to wear crop tops, these pants would be perfect if you don’t want to show so much belly.
Also, the pants have nice big pockets, so I appreciate that. I like putting my hands in them.
Final Thoughts
I really like how my pants turned out. And the best thing was that they were very easy to sew.
Plus, with the elastic waist, they look so adorable. You might give this one a try too.
More Sewing Projects
I have many posts related to this one on my blog. You might want to check them out.
- Find out more about the blouse that I’m wearing, which is easy to sew too.
- I’ll tell you about the best types of waistband elastic for a comfy fit.
- What about cute slit pants made with an elastic waist?
- Don’t forget to check out my blog post on cutting digital sewing patterns.
I’d love to hear what you’re working on in your sewing room!
Originally published: December 3, 2024
