Step-by-Step Guide: Mastering the Art of Sewing Bell Bottoms

The fashion industry has a way of bringing back styles from the past and making them popular once again. One such trend that has made a comeback in recent years is bell-bottoms. These statement trousers that were highly popular in the 1970s are now seen on runways and streets, adding a touch of retro style to modern wardrobes. But instead of spending money on store-bought bell-bottoms, why not try sewing your own? Not only will it save you money, but it also gives you the opportunity to customize and add your personal touch to this iconic fashion piece. In this article, we will guide you through the steps on how to sew your very own pair of bell-bottoms, so get your sewing machine ready and let’s dive into the world of DIY fashion!

What are Bell Bottoms?

Bell bottoms are a style of pants that became popular in the late 1960s and early 1970s. They feature a flared leg that widens from the knee or mid-calf down to the ankle, resembling a bell shape. Bell bottoms were initially worn by sailors in the Navy, but they quickly gained popularity among counterculture and fashion-forward crowds.

The History of Bell Bottoms

The origins of bell bottoms can be traced back to the early 19th century when they were worn by sailors as part of their standard uniform. The wide leg was practical for sailors as it allowed them to roll up their pants easily when scrubbing the decks. In the 1960s, bell bottoms became a symbol of rebellion and non-conformity due to their association with hippie culture. They were often worn alongside tie-dye shirts, headbands, and other unconventional fashion choices.

In the 1970s, bell bottoms went mainstream and became a staple in women’s and men’s fashion. They were worn by celebrities, rock stars, and even political figures like former US President Jimmy Carter. However, their popularity eventually declined in the 1980s with the rise of more form-fitting styles like skinny jeans.

Why Sew Your Own Bell Bottoms?

With fashion trends constantly cycling back around, bell bottoms have made a comeback in recent years. If you’re looking for a unique pair of pants that make a statement, sewing your own bell bottoms is the perfect solution. You can customize them to your specific measurements and choose fabrics and patterns that express your personal style.

Sewing your own bell bottoms also allows you to have complete control over how flared you want them to be. This way, you can achieve the exact desired look without having to compromise on fit or style. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands and adding a touch of individuality to your wardrobe.

Materials Needed

To sew your own bell bottoms, you will need:
– Pattern: You can either purchase a pattern or draft one yourself by using an old pair of pants as a guide.
– Fabric: Choose a lightweight, drapey fabric with good stretch such as denim, cotton twill, or linen.
– Thread: Use a high-quality thread that matches the color of your fabric.
– Sewing Machine: A sewing machine will make the process much faster and easier, but you can also hand-sew if you don’t have one.
– Scissors: Sharp fabric scissors are essential for cutting out your pattern and fabric.
– Measuring Tape: Measuring tape will ensure that you get accurate measurements for your pattern.
– Pins: These will be used to hold your fabric in place while sewing.
– Marking Tools: You’ll need marking tools such as chalk or washable markers to transfer the pattern markings onto your fabric.

Step-by-Step Guide to Sewing Bell Bottoms

1. Prepare Your Fabric and Pattern:
Wash and press your fabric before cutting out your pattern to prevent shrinking later on. Lay out your fabric on a flat surface and pin the pattern pieces according to the instructions. Make sure to cut all pieces on the same grain (parallel to the selvage).

2. Cut Out Your Pattern Pieces:
Using sharp scissors, carefully cut along the marked lines on each piece. Make sure not to cut into any notches or markings.

3. Piece Together the Front and Back:
Sew together the front and back leg pieces at the inseam using a 0.5 inch seam allowance. Press open the seam.

4. Create Front and Back Seams:
With right sides together, pin the front and back leg pieces together at the side seams. Sew along the pinned edges using a 0.5 inch seam allowance. Press open the seam.

5. Hem the Bottom Edge:
Fold up the bottom edge of each leg by 1 inch and press. Then fold it up again by another inch and press once more. Sew along the folded edge to secure the hem.

6. Attach Waistband:
Fold over the top edge of your pants by 1 inch and press. Then fold it over again by enough to fit your elastic (usually around 2 inches) and press again. Sew along the folded edge, leaving a 2-inch gap to insert the elastic.

7. Insert Elastic:
Using a safety pin attached to one end of your elastic, thread it through the gap in your waistband until you reach the other end. Overlap both ends by 1 inch and sew together to create a secure loop.

8. Finish Waistband and Hem:
Sew closed the gap in your waistband and adjust your elastic if necessary to ensure a snug fit around your waist. Finally, sew a blind hem around each leg opening for a clean finish.

Tips for Sewing Bell Bottoms

– Always double-check your measurements

Sewing your own clothing has become increasingly popular in recent years as people look for ways to express their individual style and save money on trendy items. One unique and eye-catching trend that has made a comeback is the bell bottom pant. Originally popular in the 1960s and 1970s, bell bottoms feature a wide, flared leg that adds a touch of retro flair to any outfit. If you’re wondering how to sew your own pair of bell bottoms, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through every step of the process, from choosing the perfect fabric to crafting a custom fit.

Gather Your Materials

Before jumping into sewing your bell bottom pants, it’s important to gather all of your materials. First and foremost, you’ll need 3 to 4 yards of fabric, depending on your size and desired length. Look for lightweight fabrics such as denim or cotton blends that have some stretch to them for maximum comfort and movement.

In addition to fabric, you’ll also need a sewing machine with a regular stitch and zig-zag stitch function, thread in a coordinating color, sewing scissors, pins or clips, an iron and ironing board, measuring tape, chalk or fabric marking tools, and a pair of paper scissors.

Draft Your Pattern

Bell bottom pants may look complicated at first glance, but they can actually be easily made by creating your own pattern based on an existing pair of pants that fit well. To do this, simply fold your pants in half vertically and place them down on your folded fabric with the center seam against the fold. Trace around the edges of one leg with chalk or fabric marking tool then add 1 inch seam allowance around all edges except for the top where you will add 1.5 inches seam allowance for your waistband. Cut out your fabric carefully, making sure to keep the two leg pieces together.

Sew the Legs Together

Now that you have your fabric pieces, you can start sewing the legs together. Place them right sides together and pin or clip along the side seams. Sew a straight stitch along both sides using a 1-inch seam allowance. Finish by zig-zagging the raw edges to prevent fraying.

Create a Waistband

To make a waistband for your bell bottoms, measure and cut a rectangular piece of fabric that is 3-4 inches wide and as long as your waist measurement plus 1 inch seam allowance on each end. Fold it in half lengthwise with right sides together and sew along one short end and down the long edge using a slim ¼ inch seam allowance. Flip it inside out so that the right side is now facing outwards.

Next, fold your pants in half with front sides facing each other and place your waistband over the top with raw edges aligned. Make sure that it fits snugly but comfortably around your waist before sewing it in place. You can use a straight stitch or zig-zag stitch to secure the waistband to the pants.

Create and Attach Bell Bottoms

To create bell bottoms for your pants, measure from the bottom of the pants to where you want them to flare out at the bottom then add an additional inch for seam allowance. Divide this measurement by two since you’ll be cutting two identical pieces from scrap fabric or pattern paper.

Trace out this shape then cut it out carefully before pinning or clipping it onto one of your pant legs with right sides facing each other and raw edges aligned. Sew along this curve using a regular straight stitch then finish it off with a zig-zag stitch. Repeat this step for the other pant leg then turn both legs inside out.

Lastly, with right sides facing each other, place one pant leg inside the other and line up the center seam. Pin or clip together and sew along the curved edge using a regular straight stitch. Zig-zag stitch this seam as well to finish it off.

Finish Off Your Bell Bottoms

With your bell bottom pants now sewn together, all that’s left to do is hem the bottoms by folding them up 1 inch then again 1 inch and sewing a straight stitch around the edge. You can also add any other finishing touches such as pockets or additional details depending on your personal style.

Care Instructions

To ensure that your new bell bottoms last for years to come, it’s important to properly care for them. Always follow the fabric care instructions on the materials you chose and consider adding them to a laundry bag before washing to prevent any damage from happening in the machine.

Creating your own pair of bell bottom pants may seem intimidating at first, but with these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be confidently sewing like a pro in no time. Experiment with different fabrics, patterns, and styles to make these retro-inspired pants your own. So go ahead and add a touch of nostalgia

1. What materials do I need to sew bell bottoms?
To sew bell bottoms, you will need fabric, sewing machine, scissors, thread, elastic, measuring tape, and needle. You can also use a pattern if you prefer.

2. Which fabric is best for making bell bottoms?
Cotton, denim, and linen are great choices for making bell bottoms. They have the perfect weight and drape for this type of pants.

3. How can I ensure that the flare of my bell bottoms is even on both legs?
To ensure even flare on both legs of your bell bottoms, it’s important to cut the fabric accurately using a pattern or by measuring and marking the flare with a chalk or washable pen before cutting.

4. Can I make adjustments to the length of the bell bottoms?
Yes, you can easily adjust the length of your bell bottoms by shortening or lengthening the hemline. Remember to leave some extra fabric at the bottom in case you want to make further alterations.

5. Is it necessary to finish the seams on my bell bottoms?
Yes, finishing the seams will prevent fraying and make your bell bottoms look more professional and neat. You can either use a serger or encase the raw edges with a zigzag stitch on your sewing machine.

6. How do I add an elastic waistband to my bell bottoms?
To add an elastic waistband to your bell bottoms, simply measure your waist and cut an elastic band accordingly. Sew one end of the band’s width onto one side seam of your pants before inserting and stretching it through a casing created at the top of your pants. Finally, overlap and sew both ends together before closing the waistband casing.

In conclusion, sewing bell bottoms is a fun and creative way to add a unique and retro touch to your wardrobe. Through this process, you can exercise your sewing skills and express your personal style. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently create a pair of bell bottoms that fit perfectly and reflect your individual taste. Remember to carefully choose your fabric, take accurate measurements, properly cut and assemble the pieces, and utilize efficient sewing techniques. Keep in mind that practice makes perfect and don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and patterns to create a truly one-of-a-kind piece. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced seamstress, sewing bell bottoms can be both exciting and rewarding. So get out there, grab your sewing machine, and let your creativity flow as you make the ultimate fashion statement with your own handmade bell bottoms!

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.