The Easiest Tutorial on How to Cut Jeans Into Shorts

Have an old pair of baggy jeans lying around? Why don't you upcycle them and make them into fitting shorts? If you're wondering how to cut jeans into shorts, then this is the best tutorial for you. Cutting jeans into shorts is super easy; even if the jeans are somewhat baggy, you will learn the best way to cut jeans into shorts and take them in so that they fit you like a glove! I had an old pair of jeans that I wasn't using, and since I like to be sustainable, I upcycled them into two different clothing items. From the pant section, I made a stunning paper bag skirt; you can get the tutorial for that here. And now, I will be upcycling the top section. Let's start!
Tools and materials:
- Oversized stretchy pants
- Sewing machine
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Chalk
- Matching thread
Measure accordingly
These pants are super baggy for me; I will need to take in 9 inches from the hip area. The way I calculated this is by taking the hip size into consideration. The hip size on these pants is 48, and my size is 38. When you do your measurements, account for the different sizes so you'll have a good estimate of how much to take off.
Take in your pockets
Measure the size of your pocket area. For me, Because I needed to take off around 9 inches, I measured 4.5 inches on either side, starting from the side seam. I also wasn't too accurate while measuring because the fabric on these pants stretch.
Draw dots all the way down the pants and when you get to the bottom section, measure 4 inches since the bottom flares out more. Do the same for the other side.
Cut along the line
Now, cut along the line, leaving a ½ inch seam allowance.
Next, cut along the side seams.
This is what you should have, two pant pieces- one for the back and one altered front piece. It looks a little weird, but no worries, since this is stretchy, everything will fit just right! Your crotch area should still be attached, don't cut it!
Sew the side seams
Flip the front piece inside out, pin and sew the side seams of both pieces together.
Make modifications
The bottom hem is not really levelled, so you can either go ahead and cut it evenly, or you can do what I did and double-fold the hems and sew all around.
Here we go, look how lovely it looks! It fits just like a glove. I'm super chuffed with this transformation. What an amazing upcycle! I got to make two separate clothing items from a pair of pants. That's what you call sustainable living! To check out my other tutorial, click here. I hope you enjoyed this cutting jeans into shorts tutorial. Now that you know how to cut off jeans into shorts, when will you start your own transformation?
Enjoyed the project?
Suggested materials:
- Oversized stretchy pants
- Sewing machine
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Chalk
- Thread
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So easy- can't wait to try
Please do😊