Tommy Boxers: Part 2

First thing we have to do today is a lot of folding in preparation to sew. There are actually very few seams. But if I learned anything in my sewing class it was a) use a new needle each project and b) your iron is your best friend.

So we’ll start with the side vents. We’re going to be making vents on each side of the boxers which means 4 sides (since each vent as 2 sides). The picture above is one of the sides pre-folding.

Fold the side vents

Go ahead and fold over once so that the folded edge is in line with the cut edge above. Press.

Now fold over one more time as far as your little cut above the vent allows. Press.

Repeat that for the other three vents.

Next we’re going to fold & press our hems.

Fold the hems

The pattern includes this handy guide for pressing hems. You simply lay it on your fabric and fold over until your fabric meets the desired line. The guide includes a straight edge and a curved edge which is used for the top of the back of the shorts.

However, I actually found it easier to just eye ball it and I don’t think it will make a big difference if you’re 1/8 of inch off for these things. Honestly, no one should be looking at my husband’s boxers that close except me.

In any case, if you are totally OCD about your hems, the guide is handy.

So we’ll start with the bottom of the shorts. Fold over 1/4 inch.

Then fold over another quarter inch.

You’ve got 4 bottom edges and each will hit one of the 4 vent folds. When you get to the vent, just fold the hem like normal. It’ll be a bit thick where it folds over the vent but it’s fine when it’s sewn.