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DIY Runner Shorts: Free Pattern & Step-by-Step Tutorial (Sizes UK 4–22 / US 1–18)
Looking for a quick, satisfying weekend sewing project? Today, we’re making the ultimate high-waisted DIY Runner Shorts! Complete with practical side pockets, an easy elastic waistband, and a breezy, retro athletic cut, this pattern is designed to be comfortable enough for lounging and sturdy enough for light workouts.
Whether you're working with lightweight woven cotton, linen, or a cozy sweatshirting fabric, this project comes together fast and is completely beginner-friendly.
Free Pattern Specs & Download
Sizes Included: Multi-size download covering UK 4–22 / EU 32–50 / US 1–18 (Heights 162–178 cm / 5'3-5'10).
Seam Allowance: Standard 1cm seam allowance is already included in all pattern pieces unless noted otherwise.
Formats: Instant printable PDF (A4, US Letter, and A0 copyshop).
Recommended Fabrics: Lightweight cotton, poplin, linen, athletic nylon, or light sweatshirting knits.
Notions: Matching thread, 4.5cm wide elastic band.
Download the Runner Shorts Sewing Pattern PDF by this link:
Watch the Video Tutorial: DIY Runner shorts with me in 2 minutes (Free Sewing Pattern!)
Prefer following along on video? Watch our step-by-step YouTube tutorial to see every curve, pocket assembly, and waistband fold in real time:
Written & Illustrated Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Crotch Seams
Front: Place your two Front pattern pieces with right sides facing each other. Pin the front crotch seam together and sew with a 1cm seam allowance using a serger or straight stitch.
Back: Place your two Back pattern pieces with right sides facing each other. Pin the back crotch seam together and sew with a 1cm seam allowance.
Step 2: Assemble the Side Pockets
Place Pocket A onto the Front shorts pattern piece with right sides facing each other, matching the pocket curves. Pin and sew along the pocket seam with a 1cm seam allowance.
Flip Pocket A right side up. Sew a topstitch 1mm apart from the pocket seam onto the pocket side to secure the lining.
Place Pocket B on top of Pocket A (right sides facing). Pin the curved bottom seam and the longest straight seam together. Sew with a 1cm seam allowance and press the pockets flat toward the front.
Step 3: Inseam & Side Seams
Place the Front and Back shorts right sides facing each other. Pin the inner leg seam (inseam) together and sew with a 1cm seam allowance.
Align and pin the long side seams of the shorts together from top to bottom (making sure your pocket pieces are tucked flat inside). Sew down both side seams using a 1cm seam allowance.
Step 4: Construct & Attach the Waistband
Fold your Waistband piece in half to match the short ends (right sides facing). Pin and sew the short ends with a 1cm seam allowance to create a loop.
Slip the waistband loop around the waistline of the shorts (right sides facing, matching raw edges). Pin around the entire waistline and sew with a 1cm seam allowance.
Flip the waistband up and turn your shorts wrong-side out.
Fold the waistband down in half along the pattern fold line, then fold the raw edge under by another 1cm. Pin in place.
Topstitch around the casing 1mm from the edge, leaving a 5cm (2-inch) opening to thread your elastic.
Step 5: Insert Elastic
Attach a safety pin to your elastic band and thread it through the waistband opening.
Once threaded through, overlap the elastic ends by 3-4cm and sew a secure box stitch with an "X" inside.
Tuck the connected elastic inside the casing and sew the 5cm gap closed using a machine straight stitch or neat hand stitch.
Step 6: Hem
Hemming: Fold the bottom leg hems up with a 1cm, then 2cm double-roll hem. Pin in place and stitch close to the folded edge around both leg openings.
And your runner shorts are done! Put them on, enjoy the perfect handmade fit, and share your finished shorts on social media!
More sewing patterns from KeeperHK:
Loose fit trousers sewing pattern (free download)
Cross front halter top sewing pattern
Reversible Boat Neck Top sewing pattern (three sleeves and Two length options)
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