First Sewing Project: Boxers

I decided to make a pair of boxers as my first real project. I didn't have a pattern to go by, but I have the internet and a favorite pair to work from. Cutting the yard of fabric wasn't easy, but sewing was harder. Overall, I am about 85% pleased with the results of 4 (newbie) hours of work. I'm guessing someone whose been sewing a while can churn out more than one an hour.

Supplies

• 1 Yard of fabric
• 1 1/4 Yards of 1" Non-Roll Elastic
• Thread to match/compliment fabric

Cutting
I looked at how my favorite boxers were assembled and semi-followed this boxers pattern/guide. Basically, you've got 3 straight/square sides, a short side angled out, and a fifth side. The fifth side has a curve to it and on the front it is where the fly is.

The two back panels should be mirror copies of each other. The front panels should be almost mirror copies of each other, only the fly part will differ slightly.

Working from a tangible pattern will definately save time.

Assembly
Start by sewing the two back pieces along the curved line. Not the easiest seam, but makes assembly a bit easier.

Next attach one of the front pieces to the rear panels along the straight sides. Then the other front panel to the rear in exactly the same way.

Now, make the fly on each of the front pieces. That should make it very easy to see the seam for the front. Sew that up next. Do Not sew up the fly.

Stitch up the crotch and now that the boxers has two legs, assembly is done.

Finishing
First off, hem the left leg then the right, or the right then the left. Whatever move you.

For the waist-band, start at the back. You want to stretch the elastic, but do not make it very tight. When you get 1"-2" from the fly, allow the elastic to be looser until 1"-2" after the fly.

Final Product

Pretty good for 4 newbie hours of work and $5, huh?

IMO, This should not be a first project. I'd suggest making an apron, but if you have patience and want to learn something, go for it. I learned quite a bit in this little project.