McCall's 7445 - Third Time and in Stretch Denim

I needed one more pair of culottes and this time in a stretch denim.  These will go from summer to fall and possibly part of winter, so I just had to have them!

Right after I finished my second pair in the black and white gingham, I knew I wanted to jump right in for a third pair.  The pattern is McCall's 7445

I went to my stash and pulled out a stretch denim I had been saving.  The truth is I am not sure why I had been saving it but these culottes seemed like the perfect garment to use this denim.

This denim had plenty of stretch and it was purchased quite some time ago from Mood Fabrics

I did make a change to this pair, I lowered the waistline a bit and tapered in the hips a bit more.

I cut the culottes per the pattern piece and then made my changes when it was time to attache the waistband.  Being uncertain about the amount I wanted to lower the waistline, I used my chalk marker and marked at 3/4" inch from the top all away around.  This line was my placement line for the top of the waistband and then I used my presser foot as a guide.  The presser foot was lined up right at the top of the waistband.  In all I lowered the waistband just over an inch and these are very comfortable.  

I did have to make my waistband a bit longer.  The waistband is no longer at my true waist and more length was needed to go around me!   I do like the lower waistband and it feels much more comfortable.  

I love how Junior is facing the same way I am, just a funny photo.

The only thing I might have done differently was use a darker zipper.  Years ago, I heard Sandra Betzina say a zipper fly is a good time to use whatever color zipper you have.  I have used the idea forever but a hot pink one might not have been the best choice, right at the top of the zipper, you can sometimes see it, especially when my hands are in my pockets.  I do believe it is time to order more zippers.

The dreaded back photo

The only thing I might have done differently was use a darker zipper.  Years ago, I heard Sandra Betzina say a zipper fly is a good time to use whatever color zipper you have.  I have used the idea forever but a hot pink one might not have been the best choice, right at the top of the zipper, you can sometimes see it, especially when my hands are in my pockets.  I do believe it is time to order more zippers.

So if you haven't tried this pattern, give it a shot.  I really like it and it is such a trendy look.

I have made the pants three times and the sweater from the pattern once.  Check out all the McCall's 7445 garments here.