Creating Your Own Period Pants: A Diy Guide For Sustainable Menstrual Solutions

Are you tired of dealing with pesky pads and uncomfortable tampons during your time of the month? Well, look no further because there's a new, innovative solution on the market - period pants! These amazing underwear are designed to absorb and lock away menstrual flow, eliminating the need for traditional menstrual products. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of making your own period pants, so you can experience ultimate comfort and convenience during your period. Get ready to say goodbye to leaks and hello to a stress-free period!

Materials needed for making period pants

If you're tired of using disposable period products and want a more sustainable and eco-friendly option, making your own period pants can be a great solution. These special undergarments are designed to replace pads or tampons and are made with absorbent fabric layers to keep you dry and comfortable throughout the day. In this article, we will discuss the materials needed for making period pants so you can create your own.

Fabric:

• Outer layer: For the outer layer, you can choose any breathable, waterproof fabric such as PUL (polyurethane laminate) or nylon. This layer helps to prevent leaks and keeps your clothes dry.
• Absorbent layer: Choose a fabric that is highly absorbent, such as bamboo, hemp, or microfiber. This layer should be placed directly underneath the outer layer.
• Inner layer: For the innermost layer, you want a soft and comfortable fabric that will be in contact with your skin. Good options include cotton jersey, flannel, or organic cotton.

Elastic:

• Waistband elastic: You'll need a ¾ inch or 1-inch wide elastic for the waistband. Measure your waist and cut the elastic accordingly, ensuring it's snug but not too tight.
• Leg opening elastic: For the leg openings, you can use ½ inch wide elastic. Measure around your leg where you want the panties to sit and cut the elastic to that length.

Thread:

Use a high-quality polyester thread that matches the color of your fabric. This will ensure strong and long-lasting seams.

Snaps or hooks:

To fasten the period pants, you can use snaps or hooks. Choose a type that is easy to open and close, but secure enough to prevent any accidental openings.

Sewing machine and basic sewing tools:

• You'll need a sewing machine to sew the fabric layers together. Make sure it's in good working condition.
• Basic sewing tools like scissors, pins, measuring tape, and a fabric marker are essential for accurate cutting and sewing.

Optional extras:

• If you want extra leak protection, you can add a layer of PUL or waterproof fabric to the absorbent layer. This will provide an additional barrier against leaks.
• You can also add extra layers of absorbent fabric if you have a heavy flow. Simply increase the number of absorbent layers in your period pants design.

Remember to prewash and dry your fabric before starting the sewing process to prevent any shrinkage. It's also a good idea to test your period pants for comfort and absorbency before wearing them for a full day. With the right materials and a little sewing know-how, you can create your very own comfortable and reusable period pants that are perfect for both your body and the environment.

Step-by-step guide to sewing period pants

Period pants, also known as menstrual underwear, are becoming increasingly popular among women as an eco-friendly and convenient alternative to traditional sanitary products. These specially designed panties have a built-in absorbent layer that can replace the need for pads or tampons. If you are interested in trying out period pants and enjoy sewing, why not make your own? In this step-by-step guide, I will show you how to sew your own pair of period pants.

Materials:

• Stretchy fabric such as jersey or lycra (1/2 yard)
• Absorbent fabric such as cotton or bamboo terry cloth (1/2 yard)
• Elastic (3/4-inch wide)
• Thread
• Sewing machine
• Scissors
• Pins

Step 1: Take Measurements

To ensure that your period pants fit properly, take accurate measurements of your hips, waist, and thigh circumference. Write down these measurements as they will be used to determine the size of your pattern pieces.

Step 2: Create Pattern Pieces

Using your measurements, create three pattern pieces - front, back, and gusset. The front and back pattern pieces should have the same shape but different sizes to accommodate your measurements. The gusset pattern piece should be smaller and rectangular in shape.

Step 3: Cut Fabric

Using the pattern pieces, cut out two front pieces, two back pieces, and one gusset piece from the stretchy fabric. Additionally, cut out two gusset pieces from the absorbent fabric.

Step 4: Sew Gusset

Take one absorbent fabric gusset piece and place it on top of a stretchy fabric gusset piece, right sides facing each other. Pin along the longer edges and sew using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Repeat for the second set of gusset pieces.

Step 5: Sew Front and Back

Take one front piece and one back piece of stretchy fabric, right sides facing each other. Pin along the curved edges from the waist to the leg opening. Sew using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Repeat for the second set of front and back pieces.

Step 6: Attach Gusset to Front and Back

With the front and back pieces still wrong side out, place the gusset piece on top of the front piece, aligning the curved edges. Pin and sew using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Repeat for the back piece.

Step 7: Hem Leg Openings

Fold the leg opening of each pant leg by 1/2 inch towards the wrong side and pin in place. Sew along the folded edge to create a neat hem.

Step 8: Attach Elastic

Measure a piece of elastic to fit comfortably around your waist. Cut the elastic to this measurement. Pin one end of the elastic to the waistband of the front piece, then stretch it slightly and pin the other end to the waistband of the back piece. Sew the elastic in place, stretching it as you sew to ensure a snug fit.

Step 9: Finishing Touches

Turn the period pants right side out and give them a final press with an iron. Trim any loose threads and check for any missed stitches or loose seams.

Congratulations! You have successfully sewn your own pair of period pants. These customizable panties will provide you with the comfort, confidence, and security you desire during your menstrual cycle. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect. With experience, you can refine your sewing techniques and create the perfect pair of period pants for your needs. Happy sewing!

Tips for selecting the right fabrics for period pants

When it comes to making period pants, selecting the right fabrics is essential to ensure both comfort and effectiveness. There are several factors to consider when choosing fabrics for your period pants, including absorbency, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties. To help you make an informed decision, here are some tips for selecting the right fabrics for your period pants:

Absorbency:

• Look for fabrics that have high absorbency to effectively soak up menstrual fluid. Natural fibers like cotton and bamboo are highly absorbent and can hold a significant amount of liquid.
• Consider using fabric blends that combine absorbent fibers with moisture-wicking materials like polyester or nylon. This combination can enhance the overall absorbency of your period pants.

Breathability:

• Choose fabrics that allow your skin to breathe to prevent discomfort and irritation. Breathable fabrics will also help to prevent the build-up of moisture and odors.
• Natural fibers such as cotton, bamboo, and hemp are known for their breathability. These fabrics allow air to circulate and help to keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day.

Moisture-wicking properties:

• Fabrics with moisture-wicking properties are excellent for period pants as they pull moisture away from your body and keep you dry. This is particularly important during physical activities or when you're experiencing heavy flow.
• Synthetics like polyester or nylon are known for their moisture-wicking properties. Consider using them in combination with absorbent fabrics to create a highly effective period pant.

Comfort:

• Opt for fabrics that feel soft and gentle against your skin to ensure maximum comfort. Remember, you'll be wearing these pants for extended periods, so comfort should be a priority.
• Fabrics like cotton, bamboo, and modal are known for their softness and hypoallergenic properties. These fabrics are less likely to cause irritation or skin sensitivities.

Durability:

• Select fabrics that are durable and can withstand repeated washing without losing their properties. This is important to ensure that your period pants last for a long time.
• Synthetic fibers such as polyester or nylon are usually more durable than natural fibers. However, combining them with natural fibers in a fabric blend can provide both durability and comfort.

Remember, the key is to find a balance between absorbency, breathability, and comfort when selecting fabrics for your period pants. Experiment with different fabric combinations to find what works best for you. Don't forget to prewash your fabric before sewing to remove any sizing or finishes that might affect its performance. With the right fabrics, you can create period pants that offer optimal protection and comfort during your menstrual cycle.

Alternative methods for making period pants without sewing

If you're looking for an alternative method to make period pants without sewing, you're in luck! While sewing is often the most common way to create reusable period underwear, there are a few no-sew alternatives that are equally effective. Whether you don't have a sewing machine or you simply prefer a no-sew option, here are a couple of methods to make your own period pants without sewing:

Layered Method:

To make period pants using the layered method, you'll need the following materials:

• A pair of tight-fitting underwear
• Absorbent fabric (such as flannel or cotton)
• Waterproof fabric (such as PUL or nylon)
• Fabric glue or adhesive tape (optional)

Here's what you need to do:

• Start by cutting a piece of absorbent fabric slightly bigger than the size of your underwear's crotch area.
• Lay the absorbent fabric on top of your underwear's crotch area, ensuring it covers the entire area.
• Cut a piece of waterproof fabric slightly bigger than the absorbent fabric and place it on top of the absorbent fabric.
• Use fabric glue or adhesive tape to secure the layers to the underwear. Alternatively, you can fold the edges of the fabric and tuck them into the underwear.
• Allow the glue to dry if you used fabric glue.
• Repeat the above steps with a second layer of absorbent fabric and waterproof fabric for added protection if desired.

And there you have it! Your very own no-sew period pants using the layered method.

Panty Liner Insert Method:

This method is perfect for those who prefer to use panty liners in their period pants. Here's what you'll need:

• A pair of tight-fitting underwear
• Panty liners
• Adhesive strips (optional)

Follow these steps to create panty liner insert period pants:

• Open up a panty liner and remove the adhesive backing.
• Position the panty liner on the crotch area of your underwear, making sure it covers the desired area.
• Press down firmly to ensure the panty liner sticks to the underwear. Alternatively, you can use adhesive strips to secure the panty liner in place.
• Repeat the above steps with additional panty liners if you need more coverage.

With this method, you can easily remove and replace the panty liners as needed throughout the day.

Remember, while these alternative methods provide a no-sew option for making period pants, they may not be as durable or long-lasting as sewn options. Additionally, it's essential to choose absorbent and waterproof fabrics that are safe for your skin and won't cause any discomfort. Happy DIY-ing!

Frequently asked questions