I know it's been asked a bunch, but the questions don't really address my exact issue. I have a pair of jeans that fit perfectly fine in the waist, but ONLY in the waist (well, the length is fine). I have already made panels for the sides and have removed the stitching from the sides of the jeans all the way up to the waistband. My problem is that I need to taper the panels from the waistband to the leg so that they don't just flair out from the waist down. I am adding one panel of patchwork to the outside of each leg. The panels are made up of a series of 4 inch patchworks squares. Are there any secrets, hints, advice you can provide for adding the panels so that they taper down? I'm at a bit of a disadvantage because I don't have anyone to help pin them on me to get a perfect fit. I've considered just taking apart the waistband even though it is fine and try to work it that way, but I thought I'd ask before I have to rip out any more work. Thanks a a bunch! Peace! Dawn
Put them on inside out and pin the panels at the waist or where you want them to start. Then you can use chalk or pins to mark them where you want to cut the taper.
i am about to do the same thing to a pair of project pants. personally, i would fold each insert in half lengthwise, and stack them together to cut the insets to match. i'd leave extra primarily at the bottom so you can shape the hem to match, and reinforce the Y-seam at the waistband, as well as the inside edges of the inset, those ought to be reinforced with an extra row of stitching along the jean side. i hope that makes sense but sizing wise you'll just have to try to remember how they fit on you before you cut them open, and try to guess how much to add.
ahhh..... you can ask questions, but some of the best learning advice comes from trial and error esp with sewing. you seem like you are on the right path. try pinning it all first and seeing how it looks. good luck
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i298/meltotheissa2005/patchworkskinnyjeans.jpg can anyone tell me how to do this to my pants????