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Titan trouser block: Sewing Instructions

Titan is a block, not a pattern

A block is a basic shape on which other patterns are based. They are sometimes also called slopers, although purists will argue that a block and a sloper are different things.

Blocks are typically not made as-is but rather serve as a basis for other patterns so the instructions below will not go in depth about closures or finishes and are for the default Titan block.

Step 1: Mock-up Construction​

  • Join the outseam (the seam that runs along the side of your leg) of the front and back.
  • Join the inseam (the seam the runs along the inside of your legs) of the front and back.
  • You now have a leg. Repeat for the other leg, making certain they are mirror images of each other.
  • Turn one leg with the good side in, and the other with the good side out.
  • Now tuck the good side out into the good side in leg, so that they have their good sides together.
  • Align and sew the cross seam.
Tips
  • You may need to leave an opening in the front cross seam so you can pin yourself in.
  • If you are making adjustments you may wish to sew the seams wrong sides together to make them easier to adjust.

Step 2: Try it on​

  • Try it on and check the fit by pinning the front closed whilst wearing it.
  • Make any alterations and try it on again.
  • Repeat until you are happy.
tip

Keep an eye out for anything you keep doing whilst wearing the mock-up, are you pulling it down? Constantly adjusting the shoulder? etc. Things like these are signs of where the pattern may need adjusting.

Sometimes you may need to wear the mock-up for an extended amount of time to get a better sense of the fit so don't be afraid to walk around in it for a couple of hours.

Remember to treat Titan as a basis rather than a final product, so adjust what you need to get the desired look. For instance:

  • Add a front closure
  • Add pockets
  • Change the pant length
  • Change the pant width
  • Add a waistband

It is all up to you! Experiment and go forth!

Step 3: Make a paper pattern​

If you've made changes to your block directly, rather than through the FreeSewing pattern editor, you should consider turning your block into a paper pattern.

  • Once happy with all your changes unpick your mockup and make a paper pattern based off of it.
  • Now you have a pattern you can use to produce a garment.
tip

It is best practice to make a paper pattern from the mock-up if you have made any alterations, as this will allow you to clean up any lines but also means you have a pattern that you can keep producing garments from.