Using "multi-size" sewing patterns?

[design_mom]

I have a question about using multi-size sewing patterns. I'd like to make myself a pair of shorts. I bought a pattern for shorts sized S,M,L,XL -- all sizes are in the same package.

According to the size chart, my waist measurement is at the upper end of a large but my hip measurement is at the low end of a medium. (The problem is that I essentially have no waist -- a totem pole from below the bust to hips. )

Anyway, can I cut the pattern so I'm following the L pattern at the waist, but then connect to the M pattern for the rest? Or will that screw everything up. (If so I'll just make the large and let them be extra baggy in the hips.)

I'm not an experienced seamstress (I've always followed the pattern to the letter) but this is supposedly a make-it-in-an-hour pattern. I know that it will probably take me all day, but I'm figuring it can't be *too* tough, right?

 

[Imzadi]

According to the TV show, What not to Wear, they say always fit things according to the hips & the thighs. You can always adjust the waist. But if the hips don't fit, it won't fit in the butt, or the rise.

So yes, make the waist larger. You might want to make a trial, paper pair of shorts first, so you won't be cutting into the actual fabric. Or lay a favorite pair of shorts onto the pattern & see how much od a difference you need between the pattern & the actual shorts.

 

[design_mom]

Thanks,

I never thought of trying to make a trial pair. I appreciate the input.

And, by the way, I *love* your tag. Biscuit cans are scary things. LOL. Only outdone by those in-dash car cassette players. I was always afraid they were going to suck in my fingers! Hooray for CDs and MP3s!