
We’re nearly at the end of January so that must mean it’s time to share my January BurdaStyle make. These are the ‘Workout Pants’ #112 *from March 2014 and they were a satisfying, not-too-tricky project that even used up some more of my stash. I’d call that a win in my book.
So before I carry on telling you about my latest project I just want to say thank you for bearing with me whilst I took a brief break from blogging and thank you too for all of the kind comments on my last post, I really appreciate it.
On to these pants/trousers then…well, I used to say that I was allergic to exercise (lol) and that an image of me in workout gear was a very rare occurrence indeed, hah! However, for the last 5 ½ months I’ve actually been working out consistently twice a week with free weights.
My hubby has done weight training since he was 17 and as a consequence, we’ve got a dedicated room in our house that’s fully kitted out with loads of free weights of all sizes, a selection of bars, a couple of benches and a large power cage. Hubby decided to take on the role of a personal trainer for me and has taught me correct form for all the exercises that I do and he spots for me. Finally, and with some consistency, I’m starting to see a difference and I’m getting stronger. I regularly do bench press, deadlift, Pendlay row, overhead press and dumbbell squats…go me!
All of this is to say that as the weather got colder, I recently realised I needed a new pair of full-length workout pants because I was getting cold legs in my cropped leggings. It was, therefore, a complete no-brainer when I had to choose my January BurdaStyle sewing project.

*Note, I was provided with the PDF of my pattern choice free of charge, though all of the opinions stated here are my own.
**This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for what that means.
As I mentioned earlier, I used up some stash fabric for this make. It’s a lovely soft ribbed jersey that I bought from Barry’s Fabrics and had lain a bit neglected in my stash drawer for many months. It was high time to show it some love and give it a purpose. Thankfully, I
There are 4 main pattern pieces and two extra rectangular ones for the waistband and ankle cuffs that you measure and cut yourself. All in all, it’s a pretty straightforward make and the order of construction is easy to follow.
There are two back patch pockets and two slanted hip pockets in the design and these are the first things you sew.
To add some stability down the slanted front pocket edges you iron on a strip of interfacing before stitching and they go together easily, finishing off with some topstitching down the opening edge.
Here are a couple of pocket close-ups:


So, after the pockets all of the main leg seams are stitched, then the crotch seam which includes a mock-fly effect. This is simply an inside extension of fabric down the front seam that is pressed to one side and topstitched in a curved line.
Next up in the order is the waistband that you thread a wide elastic through. I used a fab soft stretch sports elastic that I got from Minerva Crafts **. I can’t bear anything tight and uncomfortable around my middle so this particular elastic is a godsend as it’s super comfy. I didn’t bother with putting the small reinforced centre holes and threading a drawstring cord through my waistband because, seriously, does anyone ever use the cord?? I can’t say that I’ve ever bothered to tie one in a pair of trousers. I find the elastic is all I need…or is that just me?

After a quick try on to check the length I was on the home straight with only the leg cuffs to sew. These cuffs don’t have any elastic in them. The instructions have you cut four pieces and to use double fabric which you stitch into a tube shape and fold up in half. This creates a lovely soft stretchy cuff that’s made of four layers of fabric is lovely, soft and stretchy and really easy to pull on over my feet.

As I start to wind up this post, just a mention about fit and sewing:
So fit wise, these were pretty great straight out of the packet so-to-speak. I cut my usual Burda size 36/38 and ended up shaving a bit off the hips due to the soft and super stretchy nature of my fabric. I also just had to scoop the back crotch seam down a bit for my low flat butt.
For sewing up, I used a Microtex Jersey needle in a size 70 and did a narrow zig-zag using my walking foot. All seams were then overlocked on a three-thread setting, though you could easily use a four-thread set up (with safety stitch) and stitch the entire garment on your overlocker. I preferred to overlock separately so I that could see if fit needed tweaking before seam finishing.

And there you have it, my first official 2019 make and a nice easy one too. I’m sure I’ll get lots of wear out of my new workout pants as I continue my fitness quest.
I’ll be back soon with a totally different project that involves lots of hand sewing and couture methods in preparation for the Dressmakers Ball.
PS…Have you got the decluttering Kondo bug that’s so popular at the moment? Are you holding things to see if they spark joy? My husband is keeping a low profile… 😉
Till then…

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You always do such a great job with everything you make.
Author
That’s so lovely of you to say. Thank you!
Hi Diane
I missed your last post and hence the news about your dad. What a lovely way to honour and cherish your dad your time together through your photography.
All my love and wishes to you and your mum
Jenx
Author
Bless you, that’s really kind of you Jen, thanks xx
Hi Diane, I love these pants! I saw them in Burda style and was ho-hum about them, but now…you’ve made them move to the must have list! You’re finishes are impeccable as usual, they look better than RTW! Yes, I have caught the de-cluttering bug/Kondo. My sewing room will never be the same:)
Author
Aww, thanks, Linda! Glad you like them.
I know what you mean. I keep eyeing up cluttered corners and having a tidy up. Mind you, I have been trying to repurpose some things too; as it’s wasteful to just throw out regardless.
These are terrific! I never would have thought I’d want to make something like this, but I think I’d wear these a lot. Your workout pants look stylish
Author
To be honest Kathy, me neither. I’m the last person to be thinking of making (or even wearing) joggers, yet they were a satisfying make and I love the way they feel on. Plus now that I’m exercising regularly they’re a welcome wardrobe addition. Who knows, maybe I’ll make a glam velvet version?
I love these pants! They look so comfy and the fit is perfect! I just learned about your loss and my deepest condolences to you. No matter what the situation we will never be prepared for the loss of a loved one. When my Dad passed away five years ago, I took a hiatus from sewing and used knitting to find comfort. I’m glad to see you back. Keep on inspiring!
Author
Oh, thank you so much Maria. You’re so kind. And yes, nothing prepares you for the loss of a loved one.
Thanks for the good words for my workout joggers. I’m pleased with the fit and after mentioning velvet in my previous comment to Kathy I can’t get the idea of a velvet pair out of my head….
Like the pants……….. But yes I am also obsessing with Marie Kondo! Not read the book or seen Netflix but after reading an article on the BBC I wasted nearly a whole day on utube watching videos and even though I know it is not quite what you are supposed to do I tidied up my tights drawer. Everything is now prettily folded and no I do not need to buy any new black opaque winter tights(lol).
Author
Thanks, Dorothy! Hah, yes, it’s quite addictive this tidying malarky and especially Youtube videos! And I bet your tights drawer is a thing of beauty now 🙂
Adore these Diane!!! and appreciate how you take us through the construction steps. Like you, am also incorporating exercise more and these look perfect to workout in. The pockets and mock fly are nice touches. 🙂
Author
Thanks for the kind words my lovely, I’m glad you find all of my details useful xx
Ah, a great fitting pair of workout pants is a wonderful thing, isn’t it (I’m wearing mine today, McCalls 7293)! I like the pockets on yours (mine doesn’t have any) and your fabric choice.
Author
Cheers Karie! Yes, I’ve been wearing these a lot. I’m definitely making another pair