How to make your own Shalwar Kameez pattern

As the Shalwar Kameez is the most versatile and elegant traditional outfits in South Asia, and worn across the world, learning to sew these garments will give you the freedom to create custom-fitted suits that look stylish, professional and completely unique 

 Making your own pattern will give you the perfect fit, and the flexibility of customising to your own tastes giving you creative freedom and save you lots of money 

 Step by step guide to drafting your own shalwar kameez pattern:

 Drafting the Kameez pattern:

• Take accurate body measurements of your kameez length, bust, waist, hips, sleeve, shalwar and shoulder. This will help the clothing fit to your body perfectly 

• Start the draft from the shoulders, moving onto armholes, bustling, waistline and hip line. 
• Mark the necklines and shoulder tilt and add the notch for the side slits.
• Don’t forget to add seam allowance on the side seams (generally an inch) 

Drafting the Shalwar pattern:

• Traditional shalwar’s are cut wide at the thigh and narrow at the ankle. To cut the pattern, you must add the fullness at the top for the pleats and taper it towards the ankle. 

 For full video lessons of the entire method of learning how to sew Shalwar Kameez check out our online course. Join over 700 women around the world in their sewing journey.

 Once Your paper pattern is ready you can transfer the pattern onto fabric and carefully cut out. Remember to always add notches and markings to help you in your sewing, and if you are a beginner then practice on cotton or linen fabric first. 

 Make Sure you keep your master paper pattern that you can re-use for future designs.

 If you want to create your own master copy pattern that looks and feels amazing and takes the stress and frustration out of sewing, then join our online course.