leggings | the Garment Farmer

I guess Jungle January really got to me, because, I purchased two more animal print fabrics in January. I’ve sewn them both up now, so here is the first project: Leopard Leggings.

This all started when I signed up for a 5k run. My sister and a couple girls from my weight training class had signed up, and I didn’t want to be left out. I’m really not a runner, but I figured this would be a good motivator to get more exercise. And so far I’ve put in a few miles…

The race is called She Is Beautiful, The Pinkest 5k and 10k. And for whatever reason, I thought I could use some special pants to wear on race day (March 17th). It helped that I ran into this lovely knit fabric at Harts, and it called out to me. I couldn’t forget it, so I went back with a coupon and a plan: leggings for my run.

Leggings are truly a quick project–just sew the crotch seams, inseam, hem and encase the elastic waist band. I made a pattern by cutting up an old pair of work out pants that couldn’t hold their shape. They made for a good starting point. This fabric is quite stretchy and a little thin–not exactly supportive workout material, but they survived their first run and will definitely be going out again.

We went for a practice run on West Cliff Dr, where the 5k will be held.

This is me with my sister and fitness coach, Danielle. She is a wonderful coach and an encouragement to me. I can’t keep up with her, but I ran about half the course and walked the rest. My mom was visiting and ran/walked with me too, so I had great company the whole time. The race begins at the Lighthouse and follows the coastline, so it’s a beautiful view at any pace.