Starting Point & Materials
Alright so my daughter saw Millie Bobby Brown rocking those gray sweatpants in some paparazzi shots last month and wouldn’t shut up about ’em. Figured I’d try making a DIY version instead of hunting for overpriced celeb merch. Dug through my fabric stash – found this heavy charcoal French terry that’s been sitting around since 2020 pandemic sewing spree. Grabbed my trusty Gingher scissors and the old Brother sewing machine I bought at a yard sale.
Pattern Hacking Chaos
Didn’t wanna buy new patterns, so I grabbed these ancient Jogger Pants templates from Burda Style magazine issue 2018. Taped three different sizes together on kraft paper since Millie’s fit is baggy at the top but tight at ankles. Messed up the crotch curve twice trying to eyeball it – ended up tracing my husband’s basketball shorts for reference. Cut the fabric panels upside down first attempt because I was binge-watching Stranger Things reruns while cutting. Wasted like half a yard before getting it right.
Sewing Nightmares
Thread tension went psycho when stitching the waistband. Ripped seams four times trying to attach that stupid kangaroo pocket – kept puckering like an accordion. Broke two needles when hitting thick seam intersections near the hips. Accidentally sewed the left leg inside out and didn’t notice until attaching the cuff. Ran out of matching thread at 2AM and had to finish the hem with neon green thread from Halloween costume leftovers. Looked like Frankenstein lines when done.
Final Tweaks & Reality Check
Took the pants to my tailor buddy Dave for damage control. He unpicked the messiest seams and serged everything properly for $25. Added black drawstring cords instead of the gray ones I lost during the chaos. After three washes, the fit loosened up perfect but the green hems still scream “DIY disaster”. Kid says they’re “kinda similar” to Millie’s but refuses to wear them outside. At least they’re cozy for grocery runs.
Lessons Learned:
- Stop multitasking Netflix and fabric cutting
- Invest in new sewing machine needles before big projects
- Celebrity pants always look easier than they actually are to copy
- Keep the tailor’s number on speed dial
