Same Pattern, Different Bodies: Seamwork Mel

Seamwork Magazine has been one of the few indie companies who has gone up to a 58 inch hip for a while. They have received some criticism in the past but I have been pretty impressed since they redid their block. One of the pattern gaps I have noticed for size inclusive patterns in the indie world is the classic jogger. There are a few patterns out there for joggers but most have only reached the XL sizes until the past year. I was super excited about a jogger pattern. I know it’s basic, but us larger people need basics, too!

Edit: You can buy the Seamwork Mel here.

Andie

Measurements: Bust 52; Waist 48; Hips 55-57 (fluctuates based on pain/inflammation); 5’3″

Pattern Size: 26, since I wanted a loose fit and to adapt to my fluctuating hip size

Alterations: None

Fabric: A multi-coloured animal printed ponte knit that I got in a local swap

Fit: These fit me perfectly! I cannot get over the lack of alterations needed for them. I’m super impressed.

Changes for future version: None. Absolutely none. Shocked I am.

Final thoughts: I am so happy with these joggers. The pockets are massive. The fit is perfect. The cuff also makes the extra length work (I normally remove 4-6 inches from Seamwork lengths because I am 5’3″) so the cuff keeps the hem off the ground. I also love the fit. I was willing to take a less than perfect fit the first time with this pattern, but it is absolutely perfect. Shocked. Shocked. Shocked. I usually have to do some type of alteration on pants patterns but not with these! I’ve worn them non-stop since making them a few weeks ago so I definitely need 10 more pairs. Okay 10 might be excessive but I love them!

Sierra

Measurements: My full bust is 54 inches, natural waist is 44 inches, and full hip is 54 inches. I am 5 foot 7 inches tall.

Pattern size: I made the size 22 even though my waist is between a 22 and 24. I figured with the knit fabric, drawstring, and elastic that I would be fine with that size.

Alterations: I did not make any alterations to this pattern.

Fabric: I used a heathered french terry that I purchased from LA Finch Fabrics about a year ago. It is lighter weight than some of my other french terry, but it is exactly the type of fabric I’d envisioned for this project. It gets softer with every wash.

Fit: I am super pleased with the fit of these joggers. They are very comfortable to wear and don’t feel tight anywhere. I like the silhouette with the cuffs at the ankle. I usually have to take in the ankles to avoid a flared situation, but the cuffs work fine for me.

Changes for future versions: I may lengthen the pattern by 1- 2 inches for future versions, but that’s not a necessary adjustment. I’d just like to see what it would look like. If I am lounging on the couch for an extended period of time, the hem rides up to mid calf, which is expected for any sort of joggers. I’m not sure if lengthening the pants would change that at all. My drawstring was a bit long, so I will make sure I figure out just how long it needs to be. I will also make sure I do a better job of marking the buttonholes on my waistband.

Final thoughts: I love these joggers. I’ve been wanting to make some loungewear that is incredibly comfortable but also cute. The Mel joggers are exactly that. I wear these pants a lot…like I’ve already washed them twice because Ive worn them that much. One of my favorite details is the drawstring and elastic waistband. It’s a nice detail and gave me some practice with making my own drawstring. I will absolutely be making these again in the near future.