Women's SHORTS pattern. Can you suggest a good one?

Question

Let me start by saying I've been sewing for over 13 years so I know just about everything about sewing. I'm having trouble finding a shorts pattern that I like though, as most of the ones I see have a rather long rise and are made for a flatter derriere . I usually make a size 8 for most dress patterns for the hips (37"), so I don't need a plus size pattern...I just need a pattern that accomodates for a bubble butt and small waist.

Answer 1

I've been sewing for over 45 years and sew professionally, and *I* certainly don't know 'just about everything about sewing'.  And I teach sewing as well as doing it...

Burdastyle is NOT a personal web site nor a scam: it's a useful part of the Burda pattern empire that allows for free downloadable patterns, allows member to upload their own designs for others to use, and is monitered and nurtured by the Burda pattern company.  Pop in and explore.  It's a lot of fun.  There are some cute designs for young people there, and a great discussion forum for all the ins and outs of the patterns on the site.

Altering a pattern to suit a small waist to hip ratio is fairly easy, but for a really good fit, you might do better to draft a trouser bloc to your personal measurements and draft a flat pattern from that.  This book will teach you how: Metric Pattern Cutting for Women's Wear by Winifred Aldrich

Answer 2

There are some free patterns for shorts at http://www.burdastyle.com

I would suggest altering your pattern a bit.  Use your waist size and your separate hip size.  Then use a curve to draw a new line.