Are your old pajama pants just taking up space? Why not turn those comfy, outdated pants into stylish joggers? It’s a fun and easy way to breathe new life into them, plus joggers are everywhere right now! They’re comfy, cute, and perfect for lounging or heading out on the go. If you’ve been asking yourself how to turn pajama pants into joggers, you’re in the right place!
Refashioning your pajama pants into joggers isn’t just about giving your wardrobe a refresh – it’s also a great way to be more sustainable and creative. Why toss out perfectly good fabric when you can transform your pajamas into something you can wear out and about?
Whether you’re after a cozy jogger for the weekend or want a quick DIY project, turning your pajama pants into joggers is the perfect way to combine comfort and style!
What Are Joggers?
Joggers are a type of pants that have become a must-have in both casual and activewear wardrobes. Made from soft, stretchy fabrics like cotton or fleece, they’re incredibly comfortable. The standout feature of joggers is the elastic cuffs at the ankles, which give them a snug, tapered fit.
This helps keep the pants from dragging while giving off a cool, sporty vibe. While joggers were originally meant for exercise or lounging, these days they come in all kinds of fabrics and styles, making them perfect for everything from a chill day at home to a quick outing with friends.
Choosing the Right Pajama Pants for Transformation
If you’re looking to turn your pants into joggers, here are a few things to keep in mind for a successful transformation:
- Choose pants with enough length: Opt for pants that go beyond the ankle. This will give you the extra fabric you need to create a neat hem when turning them into ankle-length joggers.
- Go for some fullness around the ankle: Pants with a little extra room at the ankle are ideal for creating that signature jogger look. Avoid slim-fitting pants without excess fabric at the ankle, as they won’t gather properly when you add the elastic.
- Pick a fabric that isn’t too stiff: Select pants made from a softer, more flexible fabric. Thick or stiff materials will make it harder to insert elastic and get that perfect gathered effect at the ankle.
Materials and Tools You Will Need
Essential Materials
- Pajama pants (old or new)
- Jogger-style waistband (elastic or drawstring)
- Sewing machine (or hand-sewing tools)
- Fabric scissors
- Pins or fabric clips
- Measuring tape
- Needles and Thread
- Chalk or fabric marker
- Iron and ironing board
Optional Materials
- Ribbed knit fabric (for cuffs)
- Decorative patches or embellishments for customization
- Fabric dye (if changing color)
How to Turn Pajama Pants Into Joggers: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s your step-by-step guide to turning your old pajama pants into stylish joggers! It’s easier than you think. With just a few simple steps, you can transform your comfy PJs into trendy joggers perfect for lounging or running errands.
Step 1: Measure Your Pants
Deciding how long you want your joggers to be. Use a measuring tape to measure from your waist to just above your ankle. Mark the length on your pants with fabric chalk or pins so you know exactly where to cut.
Step 2: Cut the Pant Legs
Remove the hem of your pajama pants with scissors. Don’t worry about precision yet—you’ll be trimming more later. After the hem is off, cut the pant legs to the desired length. Make sure both legs are even to ensure a clean, even look when you’re done.
Step 3: Prepare the Cuffs
Take the fabric you just cut off and use it to create your cuffs. Fold the fabric in half, sew the edges together to form a loop, and you’re set. These cuffs will give your joggers their signature tapered look. Don’t stress about making them perfect—they’ll be tucked away at the ankle anyway.
Step 4: Adjust the Length
Before moving on, try the pants on again to check the length. If the joggers feel too long or short, make any necessary adjustments. You can always trim more, but you can’t add fabric back, so take your time to get the length just right.
Step 5: Insert the Elastic
Cut a piece of elastic that fits snugly around your ankle—comfortable, but not too tight. Attach one end of the elastic to the cuff, stretch it to the other end, and stitch it in place. Repeat this for the other cuff to achieve that signature gathered ankle look.
Step 6: Attach the Cuffs to the Pants
Turn your pants inside out to hide the stitching. Pin the cuffs to the bottom of each pant leg, making sure they’re positioned securely. Sew them in place to attach both the cuffs and the elastic, transforming your pajama pants into joggers.
Step 7: Finish the Jogger Look
The final step is to lock everything in place. Sew along the sides of the cuffs horizontally to make sure the seams are secure. Once the stitching is done, give your new joggers a good press with an iron. This will flatten out the seams and give them a polished, professional finish.
3 Creative Customization Ideas
1. Add Pockets for Style and Convenience
Adding pockets is an easy way to make your joggers more practical and stylish. You can go for simple side pockets or get creative with cargo-style ones. Just cut some matching fabric pieces and sew them into the side seams, or add them to the front. Pockets not only give your joggers a cool vibe but also make them extra handy—perfect for holding your phone or keys while you chill out.
2. Use Fabric Paint, Embroidery, or Patches to Personalize
Want to make your joggers pop? Add your own designs! Grab some fabric paint and go wild with fun shapes, quotes, or patterns. If you’re into embroidery, stitch some cool designs or your initials along the sides. Or go for fabric patches and arrange them however you like. These personal touches will turn basic joggers into a statement piece you’ll love showing off.
3. Try Color Blocking for a Trendy Two-Tone Look
Color blocking is an awesome way to make your joggers stand out. Mix different fabrics or colors to create sections on your joggers. You could use a solid color on the top and a funky pattern on the bottom, or add panels on the sides. Color blocking gives your joggers a bold, modern edge, so they’ll look super stylish whether you’re lounging or out on the go.
How to Care for Your New Jogger Pants？
Washing Tips for Your Joggers
Wash in Cold Water:
Always wash your joggers in cold water. This helps keep the fabric’s color intact and prevents them from shrinking. Plus, cold water is gentler on the material, which means they’ll last longer. Stay away from hot water— it can break down the fibers and wear out the fabric faster.
Turn Them Inside Out:
Before tossing them in the wash, turn your joggers inside out. This helps protect the outside fabric from getting worn down. It also helps keep the cuffs and waistband from getting all stretched out or tangled during the wash.
Air Dry or Tumble Dry Low:
Air dry your joggers by laying them flat or hanging them. If you’re in a rush, you can use the tumble dryer on low heat. Just remember: high heat can cause the fabric to lose its stretch, so it’s best to go easy on the dryer.
Ironing and Maintaining the Cuffs
Don’t Over-Iron the Cuffs:
Jogger cuffs are supposed to be stretchy and comfy, so don’t overdo it with the iron. You don’t want to flatten out that elastic! Instead, use a steamer to get rid of any wrinkles without messing with the stretchiness of the cuffs.
Keep the Heat Low on Cuffs:
When you do iron, make sure your iron is set to low heat. Jogger cuffs usually have elastic or ribbing, and too much heat can shrink them or ruin their shape. Just press gently with low heat, especially around the elastic parts.
Hang Them Up:
The best way to keep the cuffs looking good is to hang your joggers up. If you fold them, avoid creating deep creases around the cuffs, as this can stretch them out. Hanging them helps preserve the shape and elasticity, so they stay comfy and stylish.
Alternative Methods: No-Sew DIY Jogger Pants
If you’re new to DIY, this no-sew approach is a game-changer. You don’t have to worry about getting a sewing machine or trying to figure out threading a needle. You can still get comfy, stylish joggers without needing any sewing skills. Whether you’re turning pajama pants into joggers or just updating your loungewear, these methods are beginner-friendly and easy to pull off.
Using Hem Tape for No-Sew Joggers
- Gather Your Supplies:
- Hem tape (you can find it at any craft store)
- An iron
- Scissors
- Your pajama pants (obviously!)
- Cut Your Pajama Pants:
- Decide how long you want your joggers to be. Grab your scissors and cut them to the desired length. Be sure to leave a little extra for the cuffs and waistband.
- Prepare the Cuffs:
- Fold the bottom of each pant leg up about 1-2 inches to create a cuff. Make sure the fold is even all the way around for that clean, neat look.
- If you want to add a cuff at the waistband too, go ahead and fold that over as well.
- Place the Hem Tape:
- Slip a piece of hem tape inside the fold at the bottom of each leg (and waistband, if you’re adding one).
- Make sure the tape is aligned straight and evenly along the fold.
- Press with an Iron:
- Set your iron to the heat setting recommended on the hem tape packaging (usually low or medium heat).
- Press the iron onto the fold where the hem tape is. Hold it for a few seconds, then move the iron along the whole length of the fold, pressing as you go.
- Let the hem tape cool, and it’ll bond the fabric together, giving you a nice, clean cuff—no sewing needed!
- Final Tips for a Neat Finish:
- Be sure to press evenly all around, especially near the edges, so your jogger cuffs and waistband stay looking neat.
- Once cooled, the hem tape will hold everything in place, and your joggers will stay looking fresh!
Using a Stretchy Fabric Band for the Waistband
- Gather Your Supplies:
- Stretchy fabric (something like knit or jersey works great)
- Hem tape
- Scissors
- Your pajama pants
- Measuring tape
- Cut the Stretchy Fabric:
- Measure your waist to figure out how long you need the fabric strip to be.
- Cut a strip of stretchy fabric about 2-3 inches wide and long enough to comfortably fit around your waist.
- Prepare the Edges:
- Fold the edges of the fabric strip over about 1/4 inch so there are no raw edges showing.
- Use hem tape to secure the folded edges in place. This helps give the fabric a clean, finished look.
- Create the Fabric Loop:
- Now, fold the fabric strip into a loop, making it the right size to fit around your waist.
- Seal the ends of the fabric with hem tape, creating a continuous loop.
- Attach the Fabric Band to Your Pajama Pants:
- Place the fabric loop at the top of your pajama pants, making sure it’s centered and even all around.
- Use more hem tape to attach the fabric band to the waistband of the pants, pressing it in place with your iron to secure everything.
- Ensure a Snug Fit:
- Gently stretch the fabric as you press it into the waistband of the pants so it fits snugly around your waist.
- Once the fabric is attached, you’ll have a comfy, stretchy waistband that gives you the same feel as a sewn waistband.
- Final Tips for a Neat Fit:
- Be mindful not to make the waistband too tight—it could mess with the fit of your joggers.
- Make sure the fabric loop fits perfectly before attaching it, so the waistband is smooth and snug.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how to turn your pajama pants into joggers! Whether you used hem tape for crisp cuffs or added a stretchy waistband for that perfect jogger fit, you’ve leveled up your loungewear with just a few simple steps. Cutting, folding, and using easy no-sew techniques will get you a cozy, stylish result every time.
Ready to give it a shot? Grab an old pair of pajama pants and have fun experimenting with your designs. Add some fun fabrics, play around with the cuffs, or try a cool waistband. And if you need some high-quality pajama pants to start your project, check out Friendtex—they’ve got the perfect options for making your custom joggers!
