Honestly, October has just been a blur. I didn’t think I would be able to record any makes this month, but I have managed to make the Sewing Therapy Hanoi Pants. It’s another awesome pattern from Sara. I realised from making this that I’m gaining a bit more confidence with making pants. I’ll definitely be scoring this as one of my tried-and-true patterns.
The first challenge was finding the right fabric. I was looking for fabric with flowy drape because of the elasticated waistband. I considered linen initially, but I find that I can get funny draglines because I have a bit of a belly. Looks like the belly is staying so I need to work around it. I was walking through the aisles of Spotlight when I came to the suiting fabrics, and I found this Suede Tencel material. It’s drapey and soft but the weave is tight and great for pants.
So, I’m still sewing from paper PDF patterns. I don’t think I’ll be switching to projector files but that is an option with the pattern. The reason why I’ve stuck with paper is that I can better visualise the fit. The pattern is drafted for someone who is 164cm and I am 167cm. I decided to add 1cm to the rise. I then added 2cm to the pant legs. I think this length was perfect for me.
The sizing was true to size. For my measurements of 33-inch waist and 40-inch hips, I made the size L. It feels very comfortable and the waistband was also perfect. I am keen on an elasticated waistband as this can be up and down. It’s just also a stage in my life where I want to reach for things that are easy to wear and pull on whilst still looking like I made an effort.
Instructions were great. As usual, I like to watch Sara’s Sewing Therapy YouTube for inspiration and also for her sew along videos. I find myself skimming the written instructions and watching the videos as I sew. Obviously, I pause when I’m actually in the act of sewing otherwise that would be dangerous!
This is definitely the first of many. I’m just on the lookout for more fabric to try this pattern with. I really want to sew shorts but our weather keeps changing back to winter so I’m not currently motivated. I’m keen to try the shorts version and adding the skirt.
Thanks for reading and happy sewing!
X Em
