Birthday Pants

For his birthday, Christopher requested pants with pockets "big enough to hold all his" stuff. That's a tall order. Define big enough Mr. 9-Year Old Boy Who Is Always Carrying An Armload.

I didn't have a suitable pattern so I drafted on from scratch. While that usually doesn't work to make patterns for me with my remedial fitting skills, I can do that with the kids and have it turn out beautifully. I measured hips, waist, inseam, drew a rough sketch on some of my "bag of fabric for 99¢" camo denim, curved the seat and started cutting. They didn't turn out too bad at all.

Since the big pockets were the thing most desired, I cut them 16 inches x 12 inches each. Using an example from a pair of his shorts, I mitered the corners for optimal fill and put in a pleat so they are about 12"x12" finished. I also added two spots of velcro on each pocket. We don't want anything to fall out.

Them's big pockets. And on a little guy, those are really big pockets.

I didn't want to fuss with a zipper, so I added elastic around the back and some recycled hook and eyes on each side. They work mighty fine and have 2 more settings so there is room to grow. (Thank God little boys don't have hips!)There's elastic around the ankles too. That should keep the snakes out while he's out on his next mission.

Now comes the $10 million question: Are the pockets big enough for our birthday boy? YES! These suckers will hold five, count 'em, f-i-v-e Rescue Rangers with plenty of room to spare. (Yes, there are only four in this picture. One had to clean his room while the others stood for their photo op. I promise, all five fit in there!)

And for those of you who are clueless about how big these little dudes are, I've added a picture along side my tape measure. These guys aren't skinny little Barbie.

Mission accomplished.

Oh. You should see how funny he looks when he walks with his pockets full. hehe