In this post, you’ll discover 7 free shorts sewing patterns with step-by-step video tutorials, fabric tips, and size-inclusive PDFs for a perfect summer fit.
If you’re dreaming of a handmade summer wardrobe, there’s no better place to start than with a good shorts sewing pattern. And guess what? I’ve sewn seven different shorts that are perfect for summer—each one comes with a free PDF pattern or super easy pattern drafting, step-by-step video tutorial, and loads of tips to help you get the best fit.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or an advanced beginner looking for a new sewing adventure, you’ll find something you love here. From pull-on styles and paperbag waists to wrap-front skorts and pajama sets, this list has it all.
Let’s dive in and stitch up your most comfortable summer yet!
Want to skip the PDF pattern altogether? Try my easy shorts drafted directly on fabric. You only need your measurements, a ruler and two fabric rectangles
1. Elastic Waist Shorts with Deep Pockets (Beginner-Friendly)
These are the ultimate beginner shorts. If you’ve never sewn clothes before, this is where I recommend starting.
- Skill level: Beginner
- Pattern: Free PDF in 9 sizes
- Video Tutorial: Yes – full step-by-step and post.
- Features: Deep pockets, elastic waistband, customizable length
You can easily adjust the length to make them shorter or longer depending on your style. I personally love sewing them in cotton linen blends, rayon, or lightweight denim for a breathable and breezy fit.
Learn how to sew elastic waistband here.
Fabric needed: Around 1.2 meters for most sizes
Styling tip: These shorts look super cute with a tucked-in tee or a crop top and sandals!
2. Ruffled Hem Shorts
If you want something a little more feminine, I also made these ruffle hem shorts with a free pattern in 10 sizes. They use a simple elastic waist, but the gathered hem makes them look completely different from my basic shorts patterns.
3. Ruffled Paperbag Shorts (Super Cute & Comfy)
These ruffled shorts are all about sweet summer vibes! They have an adorable paperbag-style waistband, comfy fit, and yes—pockets.
- Skill level: Confident beginner
- Pattern: Free PDF in 5 sizes
- Video Tutorial: Yes
- Features: Ruffled top, elastic waist, pockets, customizable length
The waist gathers give them that flouncy paperbag look, and they work great with lightweight cottons, double gauze, or viscose fabrics.
Side pockets sew them easy here.
Fabric needed: 1.2 to 1.4 meters depending on length
Styling tip: Perfect with a simple tank top and espadrilles for a picnic day.
4. Pleated Shorts with Zipper Fly (For Intermediate Sewists)
Time to level up! These pleated shorts are structured, stylish, and great for a polished summer outfit. They come with a zipper fly and a buttoned waistband for a clean finish.
- Skill level: Intermediate
- Pattern: Draft-your-own pattern (shown in video)
- Video Tutorial: Yes, with drafting instructions
- Features: Pleats, zipper fly, waistband with button, pockets
Even though they look store-bought, I walk you through drafting the pattern from scratch in a super beginner-friendly way. Trust me—you can do it.
Zipper fly sewing for beginners here.
Fabric needed: About 1.4 to 1.6 meters (woven fabric like cotton twill, linen blend, or structured poplin)
Styling tip: Tuck in a blouse and add loafers or flats for a city-chic vibe.
5. Wrap Skort (AKA Skort – Shorts + Skirt Magic!)
So what’s a skort? It’s a pair of shorts with a skirt panel in the front—you get the comfort of shorts with the cute look of a mini skirt! I had to include this in my list because it’s just so versatile and flattering.
- Skill level: Advanced beginner
- Pattern: Free PDF in 5 sizes + pattern drafting instructions in video
- Video Tutorial: Yes
- Features: Wrap-style front, comfy fit, easy waistband
Even though I didn’t add pockets in my version, I show you how to add them if you like. The pattern is easy to tweak and personalize.
Fabric needed: About 1.2 meters (great in cotton, linen, chambray, or even flowy rayon)
Styling tip: Looks amazing with sandals and a blouse or tank!
6. High-Waisted Wide Leg Shorts (Easy & Breezy)
These are the shorts to wear when it’s too hot to breathe. Super wide, super high-waisted, and extremely comfortable.
- Skill level: Beginner
- Pattern: Draft-your-own pattern (shown in video)
- Video Tutorial: Yes
- Features: Wide leg, elastic waistband, pockets
They’re flattering, breathable, and give that effortlessly cool look we all want in summer. Plus, they’re easy to adjust for different lengths and waist heights.
How to create shirred waistband in an easy way here.
Fabric needed: 1.4 to 1.6 meters – use lightweight woven fabrics like linen, cotton voile, or Tencel
Styling tip: Pair with a crop top or bodysuit and sneakers for everyday errands.
7. Pull-On Shorts (The Easiest of Them All)
If you want a shorts sewing pattern you can whip up in an afternoon, these are it. They’re simple, cozy, and great for everyday wear.
- Skill level: Absolute beginner
- Pattern: Free PDF in 5 sizes
- Video Tutorial: Yes
- Features: Elastic waistband, roomy fit, pockets
You’ll want to make five pairs of these. They’re that comfortable. Sew them in jersey, double gauze, cotton lawn, or anything soft.
Fabric needed: About 1.1 meters
Styling tip: Toss on a tank or oversized tee and slides—done!
8. Pajama Set Shorts (Also Cute Enough for Outdoors!)
These are technically pajamas… but with the right fabric, they totally work as daywear, too! The shorts come with a matching top, and both are beginner-friendly.
- Skill level: Beginner
- Pattern: Free PDF for both shorts and top in 5 sizes
- Video Tutorial: Yes
- Features: Elastic waist, comfy fit, relaxed style
These are ideal in soft cotton, rayon, or even lightweight knit fabrics. Add lace or trim for a feminine touch!
Fabric needed: Around 1.5 to 1.8 meters for the set
Styling tip: Lounge at home or wear them out with a cute jacket and sneakers.
Shorts Sewing Pattern Overview
| Shorts Style | Skill Level | Pattern Type | Sizes Available | Pockets | Video Tutorial | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elastic Waist Shorts | Beginner | Free PDF | 9 sizes | ✔️ | ✔️ | Customizable length |
| Ruffled Paperbag Shorts | Confident Beginner | Free PDF | 5 sizes | ✔️ | ✔️ | Super comfy & cute |
| Pleated Shorts | Intermediate | Draft Your Own | Custom fit | ✔️ | ✔️ | Includes zipper fly |
| Wrap Skort | Advanced Beginner | Free PDF + Draft | 5 sizes | ❌ (optional) | ✔️ | Skirt look, shorts comfort |
| High-Waisted Wide Shorts | Beginner | Draft Your Own | Custom fit | ✔️ | ✔️ | Super breezy & flattering |
| Pull-On Shorts | Absolute Beginner | Free PDF | 5 sizes | ✔️ | ✔️ | Perfect for your first project |
| Pajama Set Shorts | Beginner | Free PDF (set) | 5 sizes | ✔️ | ✔️ | Includes matching top pattern |
Which Shorts Should You Sew First?
| You Are… | Start With… |
|---|---|
| New to sewing clothing | Pull-On Shorts or Elastic Waist Shorts |
| Want something cute but easy | Ruffled Paperbag Shorts |
| Looking for a challenge | Pleated Shorts with Zipper Fly |
| Love skirts but want comfort | Wrap Skort |
| Need an everyday comfy pair | High-Waisted Wide Shorts |
| Want something versatile for sleep & day | Pajama Set Shorts |
Choosing the Best Fabrics for Sewing Shorts
The fabric you choose can make or break your shorts, so let’s pick the best ones for a comfy, stylish fit. Here are some of my top picks for sewing summer shorts:
1. Cotton
Light, breathable, and easy to sew—cotton is perfect for casual shorts. It’s great for beginners and comes in so many styles, from soft cotton lawn to sturdy denim.
Best for: Elastic waist shorts, pull-on shorts.
2. Linen
If you want something breezy and perfect for hot days, linen’s your fabric. It wrinkles naturally but gives shorts that relaxed, comfy vibe.
Best for: High-waisted shorts, wrap skorts.
3. Rayon
Soft and drapey, rayon feels luxurious on the skin. It’s ideal for creating flowy, comfortable shorts with a stylish look.
Best for: Ruffled paperbag shorts, pajama set shorts.
4. Denim (Lightweight)
Light denim is sturdy yet soft—perfect for shorts that need a little more structure, like pleated designs or high-waisted styles.
Best for: Elastic waist shorts, pleated shorts.
5. Tencel
Soft, breathable, and eco-friendly, Tencel is great for shorts that feel luxe and flowy. It’s perfect for those hot, sunny days.
Best for: High-waisted shorts, pull-on shorts.
6. Chambray
Chambray gives you that denim look without the heaviness. It’s light, breathable, and super easy to sew, making it a summer favorite.
Best for: Wrap skorts, pleated shorts.
Remember to pre-wash your fabric to prevent shrinkage, and pick the one that feels best for the shorts you want to create.
Suggested Fabric & Yardage
| Shorts Style | Best Fabric Types | Approx. Fabric Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Elastic Waist Shorts | Cotton, linen blend, rayon, lightweight denim | 1.2 meters |
| Ruffled Paperbag Shorts | Cotton poplin, double gauze, viscose | 1.2–1.4 meters |
| Pleated Shorts | Cotton twill, linen blend, poplin, suiting | 1.4–1.6 meters |
| Wrap Skort | Chambray, cotton, rayon, linen | 1.2 meters |
| High-Waisted Wide Shorts | Tencel, cotton voile, linen, rayon | 1.4–1.6 meters |
| Pull-On Shorts | Cotton lawn, jersey, double gauze, rayon | 1.1 meters |
| Pajama Set Shorts + Top | Rayon, cotton, knit, viscose | 1.5–1.8 meters total |
Tip: Prewash your fabric to avoid shrinkage!
How to shorten or lengthen the pants
This diagram shows you how to adjust the length and width of the pants.
Final Tips for Sewing Shorts
- Prewash your fabric to prevent shrinkage.
- Use lightweight fusible interfacing for waistbands that need structure.
- Add bias tape or ribbon for a neat finish on inner seams if you don’t have a serger.
- Don’t skip pressing—crisp seams make a big difference!
Ready to Sew Your Summer Shorts?
There you have it—7 shorts sewing patterns, each one tested, worn, and loved. Whether you’re relaxing at home, heading to the beach, or just want to stay cool and comfy, there’s a style here for every mood and every level.
All patterns are free, all videos are there to help, and best of all—you get to make something you’ll actually want to wear!
✂️ So grab your fabric, watch the tutorials, and pick your favorite shorts sewing pattern to start today. Let me know in the comments which one you’re sewing first!
🧵 FAQs – Shorts Sewing Patterns & Tutorials
❓1. Are these shorts patterns really free?
Yes! All 7 shorts patterns featured in this post are 100% free to download. Some come as printable PDF files, while others include diagrams or measurements to draft your own. Each one links to a video tutorial and/or step-by-step photo instructions.
❓2. Can I sew these shorts as a beginner?
Absolutely! Most of these shorts patterns are beginner-friendly or designed for confident beginners. The tutorials walk you through everything from cutting fabric to sewing the waistband and hems.
❓3. What kind of fabric should I use for summer shorts?
Lightweight cotton, linen, double gauze, and soft rayon blends work beautifully for summer. If you’re making activewear shorts, look for knit or athletic fabrics with stretch. Each tutorial includes fabric suggestions to help you choose.
❓7. I don’t have a serger. Can I still make these shorts?
Yes! You don’t need a serger to sew these shorts. All of the tutorials can be completed with a regular sewing machine. You can use a zigzag stitch or French seams to finish raw edges neatly.
❓8. What’s the easiest shorts pattern to start with?
If you’re brand new to sewing, start with the elastic waist shorts pattern or wrap skort—they’re quick, simple, and don’t require zippers or tricky closures. Just pick a soft woven fabric and follow the video tutorial linked in the post.
In this post, you’ve learned how to sew 7 stylish shorts with free patterns, helpful video tutorials, and tips to choose fabric, fit, and style them your way.
Disclaimer: All the patterns that I provide on this blog are for private and personal use only. You are not allowed to sell, distribute, modify, or share these patterns for any commercial or profit purposes. These patterns are my original creations and intellectual property, and I reserve all the rights to them. Please respect my work and do not violate these terms of use. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
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