Comment ajouter un volant à n'importe quel patron de shorts

Add Ruffles to Any Shorts Pattern

Featuring the Denyse Pattern by Jalie

Love ruffle shorts? Great news—you don't need to buy a new pattern every time you want this look!
With just a few simple adjustments, you can add ruffles to almost any shorts pattern. In this tutorial, we'll use the Denyse pattern by Jalie as an example, but the same technique works for most shorts patterns.

Materials

  • Your favorite shorts pattern (we're using Denyse by Jalie)
  • The fabric recommended for your pattern (we chose navy linen)
  • A ruler
  • An iron
  • Thread
  • A sewing machine
  • A serger (optional, but recommended)

Step 1 – Shorten the Pattern Pieces

Since we'll be adding a ruffle to the hem, we first need to shorten the shorts so the finished garment keeps its original length.
For the Denyse pattern, the original hem allowance is 4 cm (1½").
We'll subtract:
  • 4 cm for the original hem allowance;
  • 4 cm for the visible height of the ruffle;
  • then add back 1 cm for the seam allowance used to attach the ruffle.

Calculation

4 cm + 4 cm − 1 cm = 7 cm
Shorten each leg by 7 cm.

Keep in Mind

No matter which shorts pattern you use, the formula is always the same:
Length to remove = Original hem allowance + Visible ruffle height − Seam allowance

Step 2 – Calculate the Length of the Ruffles

Each leg needs its own ruffle.
Using a ruler, measure the width of the leg opening on:
  • the front piece;
  • the back piece.
Then subtract the seam allowances from both sides (2 cm in our example).
For beautiful gathers, multiply this measurement by 1.75.
Finally, add 2 cm to create the seam that closes the ruffle into a loop.

Formula

(Leg opening width − Seam allowances) × 1.75 + 2 cm

Example

The leg opening measures 24 cm.
24 cm − 2 cm = 22 cm
22 cm × 1.75 = 38.5 cm
38.5 cm + 2 cm = 40.5 cm
Your finished ruffle should therefore be 40.5 cm long.

Tip

  • Prefer a subtler ruffle? Use a gathering ratio of 1.5.
  • Want a fuller, more dramatic look? Try 2 or even 2.5.

Step 3 – Determine the Ruffle Width

For this project, each ruffle is cut 10 cm wide.
Why?
The ruffle is folded in half:
  • 4 cm remains visible;
  • 2 cm is used for the seam allowance.
4 cm × 2 + 2 cm = 10 cm
Of course, you can adjust the width to create the look you prefer.

Step 4 – Cut the Pieces

Cut all of the shorts pieces according to the pattern instructions, using the shortened leg pieces.
Then cut the four ruffles using the dimensions you calculated.

Helpful TipLabel each ruffle as you cut it (front left, front right, back left, and back right).
Many shorts patterns have a slightly wider leg opening at the back than at the front, and labeling the pieces helps prevent mix-ups during assembly.

Step 5 – Prepare the Ruffles

Fold each ruffle in half lengthwise, with the right side facing out.
Press well to create a crisp fold.

Next, sew the two short ends together, right sides together, forming a loop.
Press the seam open or to one side.

Step 6 – Create the Gathers

There are several ways to gather fabric:

  • Two rows of basting stitches;
  • Elastic thread;
  • A gathering foot;
  • A serger.
For this tutorial, we're using our favorite method: two parallel rows of long machine stitches.

Gently pull the bobbin threads until the ruffle matches the circumference of the shorts leg opening.
Distribute the gathers evenly all the way around.

Step 7 – Attach the Ruffles

Place the ruffle against the bottom of the shorts, right sides together.
Match the side seams and distribute the gathers evenly.
Secure everything with pins or sewing clips before stitching.

Step 8 – Sew

Attach the ruffles to the shorts using the pattern's seam allowance.
Finish the seam allowances with a serger.

Step 9 – Topstitch

Press the seam allowances upward, toward the shorts.
Topstitch from the right side, close to the seam.
This step is optional, but it offers several advantages:

  • It keeps the seam allowance neatly in place.
  • It prevents the ruffle from flipping outward.
  • It creates a clean, professional finish.
  • It improves durability through repeated washing.

You're Done!

Your shorts have now been transformed into an adorable ruffled version!
The best part is that this technique works with most shorts patterns. Once you understand the basic principle, you can customize your favorite designs by changing the ruffle height, adjusting the amount of gathering, experimenting with different fabrics, or even adding lace, piping, or decorative bias tape for a truly unique finish.
For this project, I chose linen, and I think it's an excellent fabric for shorts. Lightweight, breathable, and comfortable, it's perfect for warm summer days while providing just enough structure for the ruffles to drape beautifully. Linen also softens with every wash, making it even more comfortable over time. It's a wonderful choice not only for shorts, but also for dresses, blouses, and countless other summer sewing projects. Best of all, it's available in a wide range of timeless colors to suit every wardrobe.
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