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How to Sew Cargo Shorts

The words "cargo shorts" quickly bring to mind an oversized pair of utility shorts. However, with the growing trend in recent years, cargo shorts have become a staple in everyday spring and summer wardrobes thanks to an ever-changing silhouette shape and style. With oversized side pockets and pocket flaps, cargo shorts offer secure item-keeping and a fashionable look. By selecting your silhouette and pocket shape, you will be able to design and style your own cargo shorts to fit your everyday needs.

Things You'll Need

Fabric (brushed cotton twill, canvas, etc.)
Trim (buttons, zipper, etc.)
Tape measure (flexible)
Thread
Scissors
Pattern paper
Tailor's chalk

Instructions

- 1
  Design and sketch your cargo shorts. Look through fashion magazines or a mall for style, pocket placement and length ideas. Since pocket shape is the key factor to your shorts, determine the type of cargo pocket you want to use, such as a bellow or patch pocket. You also can add a pocket flap with contrast facing, novelty closures for added pocket interest or classic cargo design features such as hammer loops. Include trims such as snaps, grommet details, Velcro tabs, buttons, wide belt loops and elasticized cords in your plans.
- 2
  Draft your pattern. It can be beneficial to work with a premade pattern, which can help you shape your basic cargo shorts body before you rework your pattern to fit your design. Take extra time with your pocket shape and placement. Although most designs feature an oversized utility feel, the silhouette has changed to a slimmer body shape as well as longer or shorter in inseam length. Make the necessary pattern adjustments to include a button-fly or zippered front opening.
- 3
  Select your fabric such as a brushed cotton twill, laundered canvas, lightweight denim or a 10-ounce 100 percent cotton ripstop fabric. You also can incorporate a pattern such as camouflage on a 7-ounce poly/twill blend. Keep comfort and ease in mind with your fabric choice and design.
- 4
  Cut your pattern pieces. It is important to pin your parts and fit your shorts. Mark your pocket detail with tailor's chalk.
- 5
  Sew your cargo shorts. Change your needle and thread to accommodate your fabric weight. You can add a double-needle topstitch to reinforce your side seams, waistband, bottom hem, front pockets and cargo pockets. Since cargo pockets generally have several parts, it is best to sew and construct your pocket on your individual fabric part. You will have ample room to work all your cargo pocket sewing details without the weight of the rest of your shorts. For example, if you are adding bar-tacs, bellows, gussets, inverted pleat details or contrast pocket flaps, add them before fully constructing your shorts.

Sewing