Jumping into Activewear + Flatlock Stitch Tutorial!
11:00 AM
I finally decided to jump in head first with activewear. A lot of you have asked for a while now why I didn't sew my own workout clothes since I'm in the gym on the regular. I scoffed at the idea because workout clothes are so easily accessible. But the type of workout tights I like can be pretty pricey -- we're talking around $100 a pop! So, if I can make something remotely similar for a fraction of the cost, I'd a happy girl.
Mood has a wonderful selection of performance fabrics. This fabric is an Orange and Blue Python Print Compression Tricot. I used a Black Performance Spandex for the contrast. They're both antibacterial and anti-microbial and dri-wicking which is so necessary for activewear.
My pattern is the seamed leggings from McCall's 7482. And that's why I picked them -- for the seamed detail. I cut the size 14. But as we know with workout tights, they have to have a LOT of negative ease to fit properly. So I ended up taking these in about 4" in the crotch seam.
To sew these, I made them completely on my BERNINA 1300 MDC serger. I used a 2-thread, left needle flatlock stitch. I went into more detail about this stitch on my post on WeAllSew.
And I did a full sew along video to show how to perform this stitch.
I've worked out in these tight 3 times since I made them and I'm in love. And the most IMPORTANT thing about them, they're high-waist! No muffin top and no buttcrack! I made a solid black pair too!
The top is McCall's 7663. I love the way it looks because there's a Lululemon top very similar. So the style is on point.
I cut the size 14. I made the top out of the same fabric as the black contrast on the tights. I used a 2-thread, right needle flatlock stitch for the top.
I wanted the flatlock stitch on this to be narrow instead of the bold decorative look of the pants.
I'm feeling good about what I made, and could kick myself for resisting this for so long. I'm glad I took the plunge and I'll definitely be adding more me-made workout clothes to my wardrobe.
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15 comments
I love these Erica! And as a gym rat, I'm always looking for more affordable workout gear. I will have to give this a go!
ReplyDeleteYou should! They go together so quick and easy! Thanks Candice!
DeleteLike all things you make, AWESOME! Love the top and print for the pants.
ReplyDeleteThank you Mesha!
DeleteThese look fantastic!
ReplyDeleteThank you Sheri!
DeleteI like that top! How much running did you do? :)
ReplyDeleteEnough to get that pic! LOL I don't run outside. I'm an elliptical lover! Thanks Nylse!
DeleteThese look great. I've been looking for wicking fabrics. Just checked out Mood fabrics and they ship to Australia. Bonus 😅
ReplyDeleteAwesome! Thanks Karey!
DeleteGreat post and video, Erica. I was so intrigued that I got out my serger book only to discover that I can do a flatlock with it too! I have been making some of my activewear using mainly the 4 thread with wooly nylon in the loopers, or my sewing machine with various stretch stitches, but this could take it to the next level. Thanks so much. Just wondering what threads you use for this, and what you did with the long tails that were left.
ReplyDeleteBarb
Great post, and I enjoyed the video very much. It was very informative. I have been chicken to make my own workout wear, but this is fabulous encouragement. Thank you!
ReplyDeletePreciosa ropa deportiva. Muy original la remera
ReplyDeleteThis tutorial was excellent! thank you for the wonderful Tips, Erica.
ReplyDeleteThese are great Erica! I love how you used the flatlock stitch on the loop side. I've never liked the other side that everyone uses. These look as good as the pricey brands.
ReplyDelete