Scalloped Edge Shorts Tutorial

I was recently a guest over at Small + Friendly for the Shorts on the Line summer sew along where I shared my tutorial for making Scalloped Edge Shorts.  I'm reposting the tutorial on my site in case any of my followers missed it.  I'll also have it listed under my Tutorials.

First, find a pattern for a basic pair of shorts.  I used Butterick B4503 View E.

As in my example, I cut the shorts out exactly according to the pattern; however, if you want the finished shorts to be the original length specified in the pattern, you'll need to make adjustments to the leg length by removing approximately 1.5" - 1.75" at the leg opening.  This length will then be added back on when you attach the scallop edge.


Now I just followed the instructions that came with the shorts for sewing them together.  To follow along with my tutorial, you'll need to make sure that the side seams are left open on your shorts at this point.  The waistband will be the last thing to be sewn on later.

Cut four strips of fabric 2 1/2" wide x (the leg opening length + seam allowance).  For the size 5 shorts I made Ella, I used 26" as this length.  Print and cut out as many of the scallop templates (affiliate link) you'll need and tape them together as instructed.

Attach the waistband according to the shorts pattern instructions, and then

If you have any questions, please leave a comment or email me at sewvery(at)gmail(dot)com.  I'd love to hear from you and see any scalloped edge shorts you make!

This tutorial if for personal use only and it may not be reproduced or copied in part or whole without my expressed written consent.