Today I’m sharing a quick and easy summer make, paper bag waist shorts. I love a quick sew because it scratches that need to sew itch and gives you results quickly, an instant gratification project. I actually managed to sew these from start to finish in about 90 minutes (not including cutting and pattern prep). It was a fun way to spend a weekend morning; just concentrating on sewing and not thinking about silly things like to-do lists.
The pattern is the Miller Shorts by Seamwork Magazine. They have a paper bag waist, in-seam pockets and an elastic-fabric tie combo for a drawstring. I made a size 8 with no modifications. My waist is about 29 inches and hips are about 39.5 inches. I’m really happy with the fit and wouldn’t make changes, if I make this pattern again.
The most challenging part of construction was the waistband but if you take it step by step, it’s really not hard, just different than most waistbands. It has an opening at the center front for the tie instead an using a buttonhole or eyelet. I think it’s a smart way to do the waistband with a minimal amount of bulk. (If you’re not a subscriber to Seamwork yet, here’s my affiliate link. If you use this link, you’ll get $3 off your subscription and I’ll get a free month. They release two new patterns a month so it’s a really fun sewing subscription to have.)
This fabric is a rayon remnant that I bought in Helsinki this summer at a store called EuroKangas. They have a really fun remnant section that is sold be weight and I went a little crazy in their rayon bin. I originally wanted to use the white striped fabric that I bought in Helsinki but decided that it was too sheer. But I had just enough of this black and tan 90s-esque floral and I love it for these shorts. The fabric is nice and lightweight so it’s perfect for summer.
I’ve already worn these a bunch of times. They are really a great summer make, all together breezy and comfy. And they’re fast to sew, so if your sewing room is a sweaty heat box like mine, you won’t be trapped in there all day. You can make your shorts and then head out somewhere cooler for fun summer activities.
By the way, I release a new YouTube video every Thursday and this week I’m sharing five different shorts patterns that I’ve sewn over the years, including the Miller. Stay tuned to the blog or if you haven’t already, you can click this link to subscribe to my YouTube channel. Happy sewing!
