How to adjust pants: round belly

In general, there is no adjustment to be made if the stomach is flat, because the pattern is already adapted to this morphology. On the other hand, when it is rather rounded, the pants are uncomfortable. We therefore make a modification to the pattern.

But before tackling an adjustment of the pattern, it is recommended to try on a fabric and note the problems encountered. Indeed, the measurement table provided with the pattern does not really allow you to know if such a detailed modification is necessary on a pair of pants.

Basic material to perform a transformation

To transform a pattern, it is advisable to have:

• Adhesive tape

• A parrot rule

• A square

• A graduated ruler

• A support sheet

• A pair of paper scissors

• A fine-tipped pencil/criterion

Definition

Let's start by defining the term fork : lines drawn on the pants pattern, on the front and back pieces. They correspond to a straight line ending in a pronounced curve.

On the front, the straight line is positioned almost parallel to the straight grain. It corresponds to the location of a fly. The curved part corresponds to the crotch.

On the back, the straight line is slightly inclined and corresponds to the upper part of the buttocks. The curved part corresponds to the lower part of the buttocks and the crotch.

Necessary transformation

The belly tends to go over the belt. The fabric pulls from the sides to the belly. Lengthen the crotch height in front so as to properly encompass the belly.

• On the front leg, draw an axis perpendicular to the straight grain, halfway along the fork.

• Cut along the line from the fork, stopping 2-3 mm before the side seam. This uncut part will serve as a fixed point to make a pivot.

  

• Spread the 2 parts of the pants apart to enlarge the crotch.

  

• Trace the fork from the waistline to the curve.

• Trace the side to remove the angle from the pivot.

Pregnant woman variant

The technique mentioned below can also be used to transform patterns into maternity pants.

• Instead of spacing out a single axis, use at least 3 spacing lines placed at regular intervals. The spacing measurement should be distributed between the different axes.

• Restore ease to the side by retracing the curved line.

• Also trace the fork by curving the line.

Be careful , this transformation has its limits. It is valid for the first months of pregnancy. It is also very important to use a fabric with a lot of elastane.