This week on the Love to Sew Podcast, we are sewing jeans! We both made jeans and we revealed them to each other on the show. I chose to go with stretch denim because I had a hunch Caroline was going to choose non-stretch, and I was right! I also really wanted to try out the Chalk and Notch Isle Jeans and so that’s what I did!
I made this pattern using some cone mills stretch denim from my stash. It was purchased years ago and I’m glad I finally got around to using it! I went with dark denim and matching topstitching so I didn’t have to do any contrast stitching. I wanted to try a pair first to make sure they fit well before doing extra detail work. The pattern was great to sew, I always appreciate Chalk and Notch patterns for their instructions and excellent drafting.
I love how these turned out! They are so fun and 70’s with the bell bottom flare. I was drawn to this shape and I am glad I gave it a go. I don’t have anything like this in my wardrobe so it’s exciting to play around with styling these. They are also pretty comfortable but the tight fit is taking some getting used to. I have been living in more baggy pants lately.
I made a size 22 based on the size chart but I probably should have started with a 20 (I was between sizes). I ended up taking them in at the sides to around a size 18 in the end. I wanted a really snug fit. Luckily, it was easy to take them in and customize the fit! The back shaping is created with darts so that gives you lots of places to adjust the pattern. It also has a waistband facing finish and an extra button on the inside of the waistband to help prevent the front zipper from gaping open.
Another change I made was to skip the front pockets. I wasn’t feeling them on me. I think if I made these again and tried the wide leg, I would include the little front pockets. I think the wide leg would be more my style, but I am glad I went for it and tried the flares. They are so much fun and I think they turned out super cute! Head over to the Love to Sew Podcast to see Caroline’s jeans and to listen to the episode!
