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Finding workout leggings that stay in place can feel like a never-ending search. One pair slides down during squats, another feels too tight around the waist, and the ones that fit perfectly somehow don't have pockets.
The good news is that sewing your own activewear such as leggings, or even sports bras or skorts, is easy and beginner-friendly. All you need is to pick the right athletic wear pattern that matches your style and skill level.
Below, we're sharing our top-recommended leggings sewing patterns that you’ll definitely want to make on repeat!
If you're looking for a beginner leggings sewing pattern that's easy to follow and you'll want to use again, the Flow Leggings Pattern is a great place to start! This pattern was made with comfort and simplicity in mind, so you can make leggings that feel good to wear without dealing with complicated construction.
What makes Flow one of our favourites is how much you can do with a single pattern. This pattern includes full-length leggings, capris, and bike shorts, all with a flattering, high-waisted fit and clean lines. You can sew a pair of athletic leggings for your next workout or make something comfortable for everyday errands. You can even add an optional mesh ankle insert for a little extra detail.
Don't worry if you're new to sewing activewear! Flow comes with step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process, and sizes range from XXS to 4XL. It's designed for stretchy fabrics like athletic knit fabrics, making it a fun way to practise sewing with stretch fabric while creating something you'll actually wear.
Shop the Flow Leggings Pattern at Fabric + Flow →
Want to sew your own workout leggings without tackling a complicated pattern? The Stella Leggings Pattern by Jalie is a great beginner-friendly option featuring classic leggings with an elastic waistband that sits at the belly button. You can choose between full-length leggings and bike shorts, making it a practical pattern for different seasons. Plus, it includes bonus patterns for a running belt and a beanie with an optional ponytail opening, perfect if you enjoy sewing your own running gear.
Shop the Athletic Studio CoreFlex Kit in Sage at Fabric + Flow →
A good pair of leggings deserves a spot in every handmade wardrobe, and the Huby Leggings Pattern by Sew Over It is a lovely option for everyday comfort. This pattern features a wide waistband with two construction options, stylish panel details, and a no-side-seam design for a clean finish. With two length options and sizes UK 6-30, you can easily make a pair that suits your style.
Shop the Athletic Studio CoreFlex Kit in Storm Blue at Fabric + Flow →
The Free Leggings Pattern by So Sew Easy takes a different approach by teaching you how to draft your own leggings pattern using a free spreadsheet. Instead of following standard sizes, you'll create a custom fit based on your body measurements. The design skips side seams for quicker sewing, and you can adjust the length to make anything from cycling shorts to full-length leggings.
Quick Sewing Tip: Since this pattern uses your own body measurements, grab a measuring tape before you begin. You'll need measurements such as your waist measurement, thigh circumference, knee circumference, and ankle circumference to help draft your leggings. Pay attention to the front rise, back rise, and rise depth, too, since these affect how comfortably your leggings fit around your waist and hips.
Shop the Athletic Studio CoreFlex Kit in Bordeaux at Fabric + Flow →
The Seattle Leggings Pattern by Ikatee lets you sew fitted leggings using stretchy jersey or slightly looser jeggings using medium-stretch fabrics. Both styles come in three lengths (full-length, three-quarter, and short), with no side seams for easier construction. You can also choose between an elastic waistband or a waistband with enclosed elastic.
Shop Athletic Studio CoreFlex Print in Groovy Lavender at Fabric + Flow →
For a slightly dressier take on everyday leggings, the Lucille Leggings Pattern by Midnight Seaming Patterns is a good choice. This high-waisted design features a fitted silhouette through the mid-calf, a subtle flare at the ankle, and an optional split hem for a stylish finish. It also includes a lined elastic waistband and front seam detailing that gives the leggings a polished look.
Shop Athletic Studio CoreFlex in Clay at Fabric + Flow →
Sometimes, the simplest sewing patterns are the ones you'll reach for again and again. The Laura Knit Leggings Pattern by Style Arc is a great example, featuring a classic fitted silhouette with no side seams for quicker construction. With no side seams, you have fewer seams to sew when putting your leggings together.
The pattern has four length options, you can make everything from shorter leggings for warmer days to full-length pairs for fall days.
Shop the Athletic Studio CoreFlex Kit in Onyx Black at Fabric + Flow →
If you're ready to add a few extra details to your handmade activewear, the Aila Leggings Pattern by The Last Stitch gives you plenty to play with. This versatile pattern features a high waistband, optional contrast panels, and handy pockets, including a zippered waistband pocket. You can also choose from four lengths: bike shorts, capri, 7/8, and full-length leggings.
The basic versions are beginner-friendly, while the more detailed options are great for practising new sewing skills.
Shop the Athletic Studio CoreFlex Kit in Guava Linen Look at Fabric + Flow →
The Simplicity S8561 Leggings Pattern offers several fun design options, including contrasting twisted ankle tabs, stirrup details, and convenient side pockets. There's also a flattering curved back seam that adds a stylish touch to the fitted silhouette. This pattern is a lovely choice for sewists who want to experiment with more interesting details while making leggings for everyday wear or workouts.
Shop Athletic Studio CoreFlex Print in Groovy Pink at Fabric + Flow →
Every handmade wardrobe could use a comfortable pair of leggings, and the Leggings Sewing Pattern by Brindille & Twig makes it easy to sew your own. This beginner-friendly PDF pattern features a simple, fitted silhouette with a drawstring waist for adjustable comfort. You can also customize the length or fit to suit your personal style, whether you prefer shorter leggings or a full-length pair. You don't even need a serger, as a small zigzag stitch works too.
Shop Athletic Studio CoreFlex in Sweet Pea at Fabric + Flow →
Sewing leggings can be a little different from working with regular cotton or woven fabrics, especially if you're new to stretchy knits. But with the right fabric and a few simple techniques, you can create handmade leggings that fit comfortably and hold up to everyday wear.
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Before cutting into your favourite athletic knit fabric, take a little time to check your measurements against the pattern's size chart. Leggings typically use negative ease, meaning the finished garment is slightly smaller than your body measurements so the stretchy fabric can fit closely.
If you're drafting your own pattern, you'll also come across terms like thigh line, knee line, ankle line, and centre line. These help you map out the shape of your leggings. A gentle curve along the rise helps shape the pattern around your body.
Once your pattern pieces are ready, check whether the seam allowance is included before you pin and cut your fabric. You'll also want to confirm the pattern's stretch requirements before sewing your new pair of leggings.
Most adult leggings require 1 to 1.5 metres of fabric, depending on your size, fabric width, and leggings length. Always check your sewing pattern's fabric requirements before purchasing.
Four-way stretch athletic knit fabric with good stretch recovery is ideal for leggings. Nylon-spandex and polyester-spandex blends work well for workouts, while cotton-spandex jersey is great for everyday comfort.
Once you've made your leggings, why not try sewing a matching sports bra or a comfy skort? Explore these sports bra sewing patterns to create a coordinated workout set, or check out these skort sewing patterns for a sporty alternative that's great for everyday wear.
There's something satisfying about slipping into a pair of leggings you made yourself, especially when the fit feels just right! Whether you're starting with a simple beginner pattern or trying a design with pockets and extra details, these leggings sewing patterns offer plenty of inspiration for your next project.
And why stop at leggings? Pair your handmade leggings with Fabric + Flow's Flow Bra Pattern for a coordinated workout set. Or, if you're looking to add more variety to your activewear wardrobe, try the Drift Skort Pattern for a sporty alternative.
Whatever you decide to sew, Fabric + Flow has the athletic knit fabrics and sewing essentials to help bring your ideas to life. Pick your favourite pattern, find a fabric you love, and have fun making activewear that's truly yours!
