I love making my own jeans. Oftentimes sewn garments are more expensive than purchased garments, but jeans are one item where you actually can save a little money. And they are fun to sew!
My preferred pattern is Jalie 2908. If you venture over to PatternReview.com you will find many reviews of this jean pattern, and it was rated a “Best of PR” pattern in 2009. A good place to start if you are new to jeans-making.
I like to set up 3 machines when I make jeans. Sounds crazy, I know, but it eliminates constant thread changes. I use my vintage Bernina 830 to seam with regular poly thread; my Bernina 710 for topstitching with denim topstitching thread; and my serger to run a 3-thread overlock on all seams.
I was able to get the back legs of the jeans totally assembled. As a matter of fact, I assembled part of this section twice. I cleverly reversed the back yokes—yes, topstitching, serging and all—so I got the chance to bond with my seam ripper tonight. BAH! Wouldn’t that have been comfortable with the center back dipping down in the middle?
That’s more like it! I also decided to try dropping the back pockets down 1 inch from where the suggested pattern placement. Have you noticed how some jeans have the back pockets halfway down the legs? Trying to avoid the mom jean look here – tho I don’t think this pattern is mom-ish as is. But anyway, trying a new pocket placement. 😉
Not too much accomplished on the front legs. Yes, that would be because I had so much ripping to do. Not that I am bitter or anything. I got both front pockets/linings attached. Darn it, I forgot to add a coin pocket to these pants. It is not included on the pattern but I sometimes put one on just for a fun detail. Oh well, next time.
The red pocket lining will have to provide the fun factor for this pair of jeans. Maybe I can finish them tomorrow. No promises!
Happy sewing!
Maris