Fancy making your own jeans? (The Dawn Jeans)

You might be considering making your own jeans for several reasons - perhaps you want a pair to fit perfectly; perhaps you’re a bit cautious about whether those who make cheap high street jeans are treated fairly? But also maybe it’s time to leave your comfort zone and try something new? The Dawn Jeans by Megan Nielsen, has become a firm favourite with Annette. Cut with a high rise, to fit on the natural waist, the pattern includes four styles and multiple lengths.

Annette has made two pairs of the ‘Mom Style’ jeans (View B) both with her preferred zip fly. The pattern instructions are clear and simple to follow throughout, but include a button fly. If this isn’t your preference, a Note directs you to alternative instructions on their website. In fact, they include Tips and Notes throughout the instructions ensuring the Jean making experience is a pleasure.

Jeans are never a quick project, and with all sewing projects, Annette encourages you to take time and enjoy the process! The fitting tips are also worth following. Make a note of any adjustments making your next pair easier to construct.

The Dawn Jeans pattern offers endless creative possibilities. Turn ups, frayed hems, embroidered pockets, contrast top stitching and rivets as well as the numerous fabrics that lend themselves to this pattern; rigid denim, twill, linen, corduroy and heavy cottons, plain, patterned or textured.

Annette is planning to make at least two more pairs of Dawn Jeans over the coming weeks, one of which will be the Wide Leg version (View C) in a lighter weight fabric for warmer weather. If you haven’t made jeans before, or are on the look out for a great fitting pattern, with excellent instructions, The Dawn Jeans pattern is certainly one to consider.

And don’t forget that we are here to help! During lockdown, you can phone Annette who works in the shop Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 10am to 5pm. We can’t allow you into the shop of course, but we can chat on the phone! If you’re ready to start, find this pattern on our Patterns page (or click on the image below) plus we have a Dressmaking fabric page.