UPDATE: The application for pattern testing is now closed! Thank you so much for wanting to test the pattern! For those who have applied, I will contact you on Thursday, October 10. And if you want to get notified when the pattern will be available for sale, you can sign up for my newsletter.
![](https://i0.wp.com/www.thelaststitch.com/wp-content/uploads/Style-Variations-Aila-Leggings.png?resize=999%2C1024&ssl=1)
Features of the Aila Leggings
The Aila leggings is a very versatile pattern, with a multitude of design options.
- Optional crotch gusset
- Four lengths: Bike short, Capri, 7/8 and Full length
- Contrasting panels option
- Drawstring feature
- Zip waistband pocket
- Criss cross back pocket
- Round tummy waistband option
The fit
The leggings are close-fitting, with negative ease. I’ve also worked hard on making the pattern suited for a curvier body, i.e for someone with a rounder tummy and/or fuller hips, which is a body type that is not always served well in the athletic wear space. I’ve even included two different waistband options, one regular and one drafted for a rounder tummy, so that everyone can have a waistband that fits well, regardless of body shape.
![](https://i0.wp.com/www.thelaststitch.com/wp-content/uploads/aila-leggings-38.jpg?resize=742%2C1024&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/www.thelaststitch.com/wp-content/uploads/aila-leggings-19.jpg?resize=671%2C1024&ssl=1)
Fabric
The leggings should be sewn using 4-way stretch Lycra/Spandex knit with at least 65% stretch. You don’t need to use a polyester activewear fabric however, for instance, the black/grey ones in the photo above are made using an organic cotton/lycra jersey. The important thing is that the fabric is medium weight, very stretchy and has great recovery.
![](https://i0.wp.com/www.thelaststitch.com/wp-content/uploads/Aila_Pocket__zipper-tutorial_200.jpg?resize=1024%2C682&ssl=1)
Skill level
The basic leggings without any extra features are very beginner-friendly, and the detailed, illustrated, step-by-step instructions are made with a beginner sewist in mind. For intermediate to more advanced sewists, there are also some cool, RTW-inspired techniques to try, such as the waistband zipper pocket. The pattern also has an easier, but equally nice, criss cross back pocket (here sewn using power net)
What’s included
- PDF-pattern A4/Letter and Copyshop/A0. Both with layered sizing
- Illustrated step-by-step instructions
- A booklet with a few extra tutorials for professional-looking leggings
Sizing
The Aila leggings currently come in sizes EUR 34-52 (US 2-20). Hopefully, I can expand this size range moving forward.
The testing process
- The pattern will be sent out to the chosen testers on Friday, October 11.
- Deadline for feedback and photos is Monday, October 21.
- The basic leggings can usually be sewn up in an evening or two, whereas the versions with various detailing can take a few more hours.
- You can sew whatever version you prefer.
- There will be a tester’s Facebook group where we can share and learn from each other. But you don’t need to be on Facebook to test the pattern, it’s just a bonus thing.
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October Sewing Bits - The Last Stitch
October 15, 2019 at 9:02 pm[…] week I put out a pattern tester call for my first garment sewing pattern. I got such a great response and was not able to give everyone […]