Leggings are one of the most practical garments to sew. They are comfortable, versatile, and perfect for everything from workouts and yoga sessions to lounging at home and everyday wear. Because they require relatively little fabric and have a simple construction process, leggings are also an excellent project for beginner sewists looking to build confidence with stretch fabrics.
The Nova Leggings Sewing Pattern Pattern from Winslet's is a comfortable high-rise leggings pattern featuring a wide waistband for a secure and flattering fit. Designed for stretch fabrics and everyday comfort, this very easy pattern is a great choice for sewists who want a quick and rewarding project.
Why Sew Leggings?
- Create a comfortable wardrobe staple that can be worn year-round.
- Ideal for yoga, exercise, lounging, and everyday casual wear.
- The high-rise design provides comfortable coverage and support.
- The wide waistband creates a secure fit and smooth silhouette.
- Stretch fabrics allow unrestricted movement throughout the day.
- Quick and beginner-friendly construction makes them a satisfying sewing project.
Why Choose the Winslet's Nova Leggings Sewing Pattern?
- Skill Level: Very Easy
- High-rise leggings design
- Wide waistband for comfort and support
- Designed for stretch knit fabrics
- Suitable for activewear, yoga wear, and everyday wear
- Available Sizes: US 02 - US 32 | UK 06 - UK 36 | EU 36 - EU 64
Supplies & Notions
- Sewing machine
- Sewing needles
- Thread (3-ply polyester)
- Elastic band (4" wide)
- Tape measure
- Chalk
- Fabric shears
- Pins
- Thread cutter
- Iron
- Serger (optional)
- Coverstitch machine (optional)
Fabric Recommendations
Recommended fabrics:
- Medium-weight knit fabrics with 30–50% stretch
- Jersey
- Fleece
- Rib fabric
- Scuba fabric
Sample fabric used:
- Ponte Roma (Viscose Lycra)
Size Charts
Check the size charts and measure yourself to select the correct size, using the garment and body measurement tables in the guide.
Verify how much fabric you need by referencing the fabric yield table in the guide.
Pattern Inventory: What Pieces to Prepare
- Front Leg — cut x2 fabric
- Back Leg — cut x2 fabric
- Waistband — cut x1 fabric
Pattern Marking
The pattern includes the following markings:
- Front waist
- Back waist
- Front crotch
- Hip line
- Front inseam
- Back inseam
- Front side seam
- Back side seam
- Hemline
- Hem
- Grainline
- Seam allowance markings
Cutting Layout
Arrange the pattern pieces according to the cutting layout diagrams provided in the guide. Ensure the grainline arrows run parallel to the fabric selvage to keep the garment on grain.
The layouts are designed for non-directional fabrics. If using fabrics with nap, directional prints, or one-way designs, purchase additional fabric to accommodate the layout requirements.
Separate cutting layouts are provided for both 45-inch and 60-inch fabric widths. The illustrated layouts use a medium size for reference.
Fabric Cutting and Preparation
Arrange the pattern pieces according to the cutting layout diagrams. Position each piece carefully so the grainline arrow runs parallel to the selvage.
If using fabric shears, trace the pattern pieces before cutting and remove any visible chalk, pen, or pencil lines as you cut. Be sure to cut all notches accurately, as they help align the pieces during construction.
Transfer all pattern markings to the wrong side of the fabric using chalk, a marking pen, or pencil. Mark any important reference points to help ensure accurate assembly.
Seam Allowance
Please follow the seam allowances as indicated on the pattern file layers. These are provided specifically for each piece to ensure accurate construction.
This pattern uses a 0.9 cm (or 3/8 inch) seam allowance all around and 2.5 cm (or 1 inch) at the hem.
Step-by-Step Sewing Instructions
1. Sew the Inseams
Place one Front Leg (Pattern A) and one Back Leg (Pattern B) piece right sides together.
Overlock or zigzag stitch along the inseam from crotch to hem.
Repeat for the second front and back leg pair to create two leg panels.
2. Sew the Crotch Seam
Place the prepared front and back panels right sides together.
Match the front and back leg pieces at the crotch seam and sew the crotch seam in one continuous line, starting from the back waist, through the crotch curve, and ending at the front waist.
3. Sew the Side Seams
Align the side seams with right sides together.
Overlock or zigzag stitch both side seams from waist to hem.
4. Prepare the Waistband
Fold the waistband piece in half, aligning the short edges with right sides together.
4a. Create the Waistband Loop
Sew along the short edge to create a loop.
4b. Form the Waistband Tube
Open the loop into a tube.
4c. Fold the Waistband
Fold the tube again by bringing the top edge down to meet the raw edges. Align the edges evenly and ensure the right side of the fabric faces outward.
5. Prepare the Elastic
Cut the elastic according to your waist measurement using the size guide provided in the sewing guide.
Align the short ends of the elastic together and sew them using a zigzag stitch to create a loop.
Do not overlap the elastic ends, as this can create bulk in the waistband.
6. Insert the Elastic
Place the elastic inside the folded waistband.
Ensure the elastic lies flat and evenly throughout the waistband.
Match the elastic seam with the waistband seam and secure with pins.
7. Attach the Waistband
Match the waistband seam with the center back seam of the leggings.
Align the raw edges of the waistband with the waistline, keeping right sides together.
Overlock or zigzag stitch around the entire waistline to secure the waistband to the leggings.
7a. Complete the Waist Seam
Continue stitching evenly around the waist opening until the waistband is fully attached.
8. Hem the Leggings
Fold the hem at the hemline toward the wrong side.
8a. Finish the Hem
Coverstitch around the hem to create the finished hem.
Ready to Sew Your Own Leggings?
The Nova Leggings are a comfortable and practical project that can quickly become a wardrobe favorite. With their high-rise fit, supportive wide waistband, and beginner-friendly construction, they are ideal for sewists looking to create custom leggings that fit beautifully.
Whether you're sewing activewear, loungewear, or everyday basics, this pattern offers a fast and satisfying project with professional-looking results. Download the Nova Leggings Sewing Pattern and start sewing your own pair today.
Explore More Sewing Patterns
Browse our Leggings Sewing Pattern Collection for more comfortable handmade activewear and everyday wardrobe essentials designed for movement, comfort, and style.
Join the Community & Get Support
Share your finished Nova Leggings on social media with #MadeWithWinslets. If you have questions, feedback, or customization requests, contact the Winslet's team at support@winslets.com.
