
In the last few years I’ve realized I love denim but hate jeans. I hate a back yoke and see no need for rear pockets- totally useless. So for this pair of denim I drafted a trouser pattern that I’m really loving. It has a nice wide straight leg, roomy front curved pockets and double back darts for shaping in the back. I adore these!
These were made way back in December but only wore them once before I was laid up. I figured I better do my best to get pictures taken before it’s much too hot to wear these.

My goal was to draft my perfect trouser for this pant. They have a foldover square set pocket in the style of my favorite closet case patterns pants. A straight cut waistband on the selvedge edge for that perfect interior finish in a rust twill leftover from my culottes as well as an accent european map print cotton for the fly facings that I used for a ton of mask making earlier last year.
I used a button closure with an invisible orange zipper for the front and made belt tabs out of selvedge pieces with two set at center back for emphasis. I love the double back darts for shaping. They work easily in this 10oz weight of denim. I also used flat felled seams throughout with a simple double fold hem.
All the Details:

10OZ FINE RAILROAD STRIPED DENIM – INDIGO/ECRU
Blackbird Fabrics
#BlackbirdFabrics and #BFDenim
This 10oz non-stretch cotton denim is strong and durable with a prominent twill weave. Featuring a thin railroad stripe, this classic denim is perfect for a range of workwear inspired projects. Raw denim will feel stiff off the bolt but will soften and relax significantly after the first machine wash and tumble dry.
Content: 100% Cotton
Width: 147cm / 58″
Weight: 340gsm / 10oz
Country of origin: China
Interior/Exterior Details:
The interior finishing really elevates these trousers and makes me smile every time I pull them on!






“Denim is a love that never fades”
Elio Fiorucci

I ordered a new tripod/remote for my phone which is making taking photos a breeze. I take all my photos myself and with the walker I can’t move very quickly so its perfect. I’m so happy to be sharing my makes again and feeling so much better. I’m slowly learning to re-walk and yoga is really helping me work on my flexibility.





On the Homefront:
My kids got the best April Fools Treat- My parents came over for their first visit in over a year! They’ve gotten both doses now of the Moderna vaccine and surprised the kids with a quick visit! The look on Ami’s face when she saw her grandparents and got that first hug was priceless! Vic gets his first dose today at the VA and I get mine on Thursday with the county.
We had a lovely Easter weekend. We dyed eggs, had an egg hunt (wooden eggs make it stress free) and I made delish Danish’s for breakfast. For dinner we had a true feast- king crab!
I spent most of the day out on our porch enjoying the beautiful weather and working on my embroidery for my vintage McCall’s 1950’s beach jacket. I just finished it all yesterday and can’t wait to sew it up! I’m making a matching pair of slacks with button side seams.


Back soon with more makes! Plus I can’t believe it’s almost Me Made May! I’m trying to decide on my challenge for myself this year. Usually I wear all me made but I’m not sure how practical that will be this year mobility-wise. Happy Sewing!
4 responses to “Railroad Denim Self-Drafted Trousers”
I love the shape and fabric of these pants! Perfection! And I love your curated blog. It’s so interesting and aesthetically beautiful too.
Thanks Mom! I just redesigned the website and really love how it’s looking.
My favorite cut of trousers! A little bit 2021, a little bit Katherine Hepburn. Well done.
Best compliment ever! Thanks so much Judy!