The sewing frenzy continues - Simplicity 3850

Now, I do have another project to show you, but before I do that I need to point out that my sewing progress this past little while, has been boosted quite significantly by an increase in childcare days (yay!) to accommodate a new university semester. My bonnet production has also slowed a little these past two weeks, freeing up more time, as I believe most of my shops are well stocked and peak bonnet season in Australia is almost over. I get a lot of comments and emails from readers talking about the amount of sewing I knock over with three kids, work, uni, business, etc. etc. So I thought I should mention that there is a reason why I'm sewing so much at the moment and that it will probably will slow a little in a couple of weeks, when uni starts again.

So back to the project. This is the second time that I've sewn Simplicity 3850, which is a Built By Wendy pattern for slim fit pants, capris and shorts.  Here's my latest attempt (look at that little monkey in the photo- what's with that serious face??)

Clearly, they are basic black pants. I originally cut this pattern about 5 months ago, before my first prac teaching session and they were never sewn. Now that I've started a new job (working in a local club in the bistro - best job ever!!!), I really needed a second pair of black pants to get me through the work week. Being the tightwad I am, even though these are home sewn and rather nice, they are cheaper than store bought cheapies.

I really like this pattern, but have struggled a little with the fit. The first pants fit well enough, but there was a little butt bunching that I didn't know how to fix.  It wasn't too bad, but it took me so long to hem them, that I lost a little weight, they quickly became too big (yep - poor me!) and I never finished or wore them. This time I cut a straight size 10 and the fit is better, but there still is a little bit of bunching in the butt. To remedy this, I took in the inner seam by about half and inch.

You can't see it too clearly in these pics, due to the black fabric, but it's still there a little. It's not too bad, but next time I make this pattern, I might try trimming the centre seam even further and also the inner back leg a little, possibly by about an inch (I'm writing this down so that I remember to do this next time).

You can't see it when I put my hands in my pockets. I'll just have to keep them there all the time now....

Now, the pattern is really easy to follow and the pants do look rather professional. I remember the first time that I sewed this pattern I struggled with the fly zipper (my first) and referred to my vintage, Readers Digest Complete Guide to Sewing, to get it right. This time I looked over both and it was easier.

Surprisingly, I was able make these pants from just 1.5 meters of stretch linen blend fabric, which I think was 1.4 meters wide. Why did I buy just 1.5 meters?? I don't know, but I've been known to purchase random, small amounts of fabric in the past and forced to make garments from them. To fit all pattern pieces, I cut the waist band lining, pocket lining, pocket facing and tab facing from a nice grey and purple floral quilting cotton, which is a sweet detail I think. You can see it here.

Overall this is a great pattern and design. I like the slim fit and the angle pockets. The faux pockets/tabs on the back are enough to give the pants the right look and they sit nicely on the hips.

Looks at those cheeky boys! Gosh - what would we do without Buzz and Woody??? Excuse my frazzled look, it's been a long, hot day!

Pattern review available here.