How to Make Joggers and Hoodies From Scratch (Beginner-Friendly Guide)

Making joggers and hoodies from scratch is one of the best ways to understand garment construction, fit, and finishing. These two pieces are wardrobe essentials, and once you master them, you can easily adapt the process to streetwear, loungewear, or custom fashion designs.

This guide explains the process step by step, focusing on pattern drafting, fabric choice, cutting, and sewing, even if you’re still learning.

1. Choosing the Right Fabric

Before drafting any pattern, fabric choice matters.

For joggers, common fabrics include:

 

• • French terry

• • Fleece

• • Cotton jersey

• • Interlock knit

For hoodies, the best options are:

 

• • Fleece (brushed or unbrushed)

• • Heavy cotton jersey

• • Loopback fabric

Choose fabric with stretch and recovery, especially for joggers, to allow movement and comfort.

2. Drafting a Joggers Pattern From Scratch

Joggers are based on a basic trouser block, modified for comfort and style.o

 

Key measurements you need:

 

• • Waist

• • Hip

• • Thigh

• • Knee

• • Ankle

• • Outseam length

• • Inseam length

Drafting steps (overview):

 

1. 1. Draft a basic trouser block using hip and waist measurements.

1. 1. Add ease to the hip and thigh for comfort.

1. 1. Taper the leg slightly from knee to ankle.

1. 1. Extend the waistline upward to create space for an elastic waistband.

1. 1. Add seam allowance around the pattern.

Joggers usually have:

 

• • Elastic or drawstring waist

• • Ribbed cuffs or elastic hems

• • Optional side pockets

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3. Drafting a Hoodie Pattern From Scratch

A hoodie is built from a basic bodice block, modified for looseness and layering.

Key measurements:

 

• • Bust or chest

• • Shoulder width

• • Back length

• • Armhole depth

• • Sleeve length

• • Neck circumference

Drafting steps (overview):

 

1. 1. Start with a loose-fitting bodice block.

1. 1. Drop the shoulder slightly for a relaxed look.

1. 1. Draft a straight or slightly curved side seam.

1. 1. Draft a simple sleeve with extra ease.

1. 1. Draft the hood using the neckline measurement.

The hood is usually made from two mirrored pieces joined at the center back.

4. Cutting the Fabric Correctly

When cutting:

 

• • Fold fabric with right sides together

• • Align patterns with the grainline

• • Use pattern weights or pins

• • Transfer all markings clearly (notches, pocket placement, fold lines)

Accurate cutting saves time during sewing.

5. Sewing Joggers Step by Step

Basic construction order:

 

1. 1. Sew pockets first (if included)

1. 1. Join front and back pieces at inseam

1. 1. Sew crotch seam

1. 1. Attach waistband casing

1. 1. Insert elastic or drawstring

1. 1. Attach cuffs or hem the leg opening

Use a stretch stitch or zigzag stitch if you’re using a domestic sewing machine.

6. Sewing a Hoodie Step by Step

Basic construction order:

 

1. 1. Join shoulder seams

1. 1. Attach sleeves

1. 1. Sew side seams

1. 1. Sew hood pieces together

1. 1. Attach hood to neckline

1. 1. Add cuffs and hem band

Take time around the neckline and hood attachment—this is where fit matters most.

7. Finishing Touches

Professional details that elevate your garment:

 

• • Topstitching around seams

• • Reinforcing pocket edges

• • Even ribbing length

• • Pressing seams as you sew

These small details make homemade garments look store-bought.

Related Tutorial: Bomber Jacket Construction

If you’re interested in advancing from hoodies into structured outerwear, bomber jackets are a great next step. The construction principles are similar, but with added elements like zippers, lining, and ribbing.

I walk through the full process step by step in this video:
 [How to Make a Bomber Jacket – Step-by-Step Tutorial https://youtu.be/IaCxXTiA7yk?si=Eu9-eRf1tTyJLVE6

Final Thoughts

Learning to make joggers and hoodies from scratch builds confidence in:

 

• • Pattern drafting

• • Fabric handling

• • Garment assembly

Once you understand these basics, you can easily create your own variations, improve fit, and develop original designs.