When i had just started learning how to sew, i fell in love with pants and shorts sewing patterns. It was a struggle to make pants that fit at the crotch and hips properly. So i am here to help you make your first successful sewing shorts!
Imagine my frustration when everyone said “try elastic waist shorts sewing patterns as a beginner because they are very easy” when that was my biggest struggle! I will confess, i do not like to follow a sewing pattern, i was drafting my own patterns which explains why i could never get the fit right.

To be honest, if i had just downloaded a free sewing shorts pattern on mood or somewhere then it would have saved me a lot of time and stress. But i am happy to announce that i figured it out. But that is a story for another day. Today, i want to share Shorts Sewing Patterns For Beginners. Free and paid patterns. Mostly paid LOL
Beginner Shorts Sewing Patterns
When i say “beginner” i mean you know how to sew straight stitches. You understand a few things or know what you are doing the least. Learning how to sew is so much easier than learning how to crochet or knit. Sewing is almost a walk in the park once you understand the basics. And, you are done with your project faster than crocheting and knitting which is the biggest flex if you ask me!
So these patterns will range from elastic waist with no zipper to something that will require you to insert a zipper. Fear not, it is not as bad as people make it sound to be. I inserted my first zipper without a zipper foot. Yes it was crooked but it still worked for me at that time.
What you will need
For a successful shorts sewing pattern, you will firstly need to follow what the pattern calls for. But just to help you get strarted, here is a list:
- Sewing machine
- Fabric- i love linen
- Elastic- if you are making elastic waist shorts
- matching thread- make sure it is not too old
- Zipper- if the sewing pattern calls for one
- Buttons- If the shorts sewing pattern calls for them
But to be honest with just a sewing machine and fabric, you can make yourself some shorts by adding a string to the waist instead of elastic. You do not need too much to get started.
I always recommend thrifting fabric from your Goodwill or Charity shops because you can actually find pretty good materials there for like $5 sometimes less.
Shorts Sewing Patterns For The Beginners
The Saffron Ensemble- Free Sewing Pattern

I will start the list with these free shorts sewing pattern. It comes with a top if you wish to make a matching top that is. You can make these into long pajama pants or just shorts with an elastic waist. The free pattern comes hand in hand with detailed instructions and a video tutorial to follow. Find the free pattern HERE.
DIY Pajama Shorts free Sewing Pattern

This is a must hand, I could never make enough of these. Easy to slip on and off when you are home and sometimes, when paired correctly, you can rock this as a summer outfit on a very hot day. Follow the free sewing pattern HERE.
Andy Shorts PDF Pattern

Watching Dress Making Amore make beautiful clothes is one thing that drew me to learn how to sew. I did not know it was possible to sew so neatly and beautifully. This Andy shorts sewing pattern is a great make. For a few dollars you can own one of your own. It comes with a detailed video tutorial on top of the sewing PDF pattern. Find everything HERE.
Classic Pants and Shorts Sewing Pattern

This is labeled intermediate beginner. A great way to learn how to sew a half elastic waistband. For the shorts sewing pattern, head HERE.
The Apricot Ensemble Free Short Sewing Pattern

Another two piece set i would wear to the lake. You can style this in anyway you see fit i just find the outfit so very cute. If this is your style, find the free sewing pattern HERE.
The Dresden Shorts Sewing Pattern

I feel like the leather makes the pants look even more complex. But you can use another fabric to achieve the look. Learn how to do pleats (easy stuff) and add a zipper and band. You will enjoy it. Find the free written instructions HERE.
Tilly Pants and Shorts Sewing Pattern

This is a two in one sewing pattern. You can either make pants or the shorts. I know you will make both! Find the PDF sewing pattern HERE.
Oh Me Oh My Yarrow Shorts Pattern

Here is a sewing pattern labeled absolute beginner. It looks amazing and comfortable to wear. If this resonates with your style. find the sewing pattern HERE.
Donna Bermuda Shorts Pattern

I fell in love with these shorts the second i saw them. They are similar to a free sewing tutorial i followed on YouTube if you prefer that check THIS out. Labeled intermediate sewing pattern but i trust you can do it. Otherwise you can purchase the sewing pattern HERE.
Joggers and Shorts Sewing Pattern

The foldline bas amazing collection of sewing patterns. This is the third i have shared from their site, it you wish to checkout the rest, head HERE. Otherwise if you have been thinking of making something in the lines of sweatpants, then this is the pattern you need. Find it HERE.
DIY Easy Shorts Free Sewing Pattern

Another simple and quick to make pair of shorts. Find the free sewing pattern HERE.
I think you have found one or two shorts sewing pattern by now. If you have not, i hope you find what you are looking for. And if you found a pair of shorts you wish to make, i am glad the roundup helped. Until next time, happy sewing!
If you are looking for more free sewing patterns, check THIS out.