The best choice for sewing actual boxer shorts is Simplicity 8180, which explicitly includes a boxer-short design alongside shirts and ties. For sleepwear alternatives, Simplicity 1563 and New Look 6859 offer pajama patterns that include shorts or bottoms. Simplicity 9795 is a better fit for unisex pull-on shorts, while Simplicity 9960 includes men’s shorts with shirt options. Check each pattern’s size chart and garment description before buying: not every shorts pattern is specifically designed as underwear.
| Pattern | Best for | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Simplicity 8180 | Boxer shorts for men and boys | Shirt, boxer shorts, and tie |
| Simplicity 1563 | Teen, men’s, and women’s sleepwear | Pajama pieces, including shorts |
| Simplicity 6859 | Coordinated pajama bottoms and shorts | Misses’ and men’s pajama garments |
| Simplicity 9795 | Unisex casual pull-on shorts | Drawstring shorts with pockets |
| Simplicity 9960 | Men’s shorts with matching tops | Knit T-shirt, shirt, and shorts |
Simplicity 8180 Men’s And Boys’ Boxer Pattern
Best for: Sewists who want a pattern that specifically names boxer shorts and includes options for men and boys. This is the clearest match in this selection for a boxer-short sewing project.
The envelope includes printed tissue pattern pieces and illustrated step-by-step instructions. It also lists suggested fabrics and notions. The pattern includes a shirt and tie as well, which makes it useful if you want coordinated garments rather than shorts alone.
Check before cutting: The listing describes sizing as A (S–L / S–XL), but pattern sizing differs from ready-to-wear. Measure the intended wearer and compare the body chart before choosing a size.
Simplicity 1563 Easy Pajama Pattern
Best for: Making sleepwear for teens, men, or women in one project range. Choose this pattern if you want pajama garments rather than a dedicated underwear pattern.
The packet includes printed tissue pieces and illustrated instructions. Fabric recommendations and a notions list are provided on the envelope. Sizes XS through XL are listed. These details help sewists plan a coordinated sleepwear project, while the broad intended audience suits households sewing for different people.
Limitation: The product description identifies a pajama pattern but does not detail the specific shorts cut or features. Review the pattern envelope and garment views to confirm the style you want before starting.
New Look 6859 Pajama Bottoms And Shorts
Best for: Sewists looking for pajama pants and shorts for misses and men. It is a relevant sleepwear alternative when a project calls for pajama bottoms rather than a specifically labeled boxer design.
The listing gives a size range of XS through XL and describes printed tissue pieces with illustrated sewing instructions. It also notes that the envelope includes suggested fabrics and notions. Measure the wearer against the pattern chart; ready-to-wear size labels are not a reliable substitute for pattern measurements.
Limitation: The available product details do not spell out the shorts’ fit, waistband construction, or fabric choices. Check the pattern views and recommendations to determine whether it suits your planned garment.
Simplicity 9795 Unisex Pull-On Shorts
Best for: Sewists who want casual unisex shorts with a drawstring and pockets. Sizes XS through XXL are included, making this a broad-range option for non-underwear shorts projects.
The packet includes pattern templates, fabric recommendations, pattern pieces, and instructions, plus information about selecting fabric and trims. View D has a contrast pocket overlay, providing a stated design variation.
Limitation: This is described as a pull-on shorts pattern, not a boxer or pajama pattern. Choose it for casual shorts; avoid it if you need a pattern explicitly designed for underwear.
Simplicity 9960 Men’s Shirt And Shorts
Best for: Making men’s shorts as part of a coordinated outfit. The pattern includes a knit T-shirt, shirt, and shorts, with listed men’s sizes 34 through 42.
Printed tissue pieces and illustrated instructions come in the envelope, along with suggested fabrics and notions. This is a useful choice if the sewing plan includes tops as well as shorts, and the size range is clearly stated.
Limitation: The listing does not identify the shorts as boxer shorts or specify their construction. Compare the pattern illustrations and fabric guidance with your intended use before choosing it for sleepwear or underwear.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Boxer Short Pattern
Is the pattern specifically for boxer shorts?
Start with the garment description. Simplicity 8180 explicitly lists boxer shorts, so it is the most direct match here. Pajama shorts and casual pull-on shorts may serve other purposes, but their descriptions do not establish that they are underwear patterns. Check the pictured views and instructions if the exact cut matters.
Which size should you select?
Measure the wearer and use the pattern’s body-size chart rather than relying on a familiar clothing label. These products warn that sewing-pattern sizing can differ from ready-to-wear. Also confirm that the desired size falls within the packet’s stated range before purchasing or cutting fabric.
What should you check about fabric and instructions?
Read the pattern’s fabric recommendations and notions list. These details help you gather appropriate materials before sewing. Simplicity 8180, 1563, and 9960 list envelope guidance and illustrated instructions; Simplicity 9795 lists fabric and trim information. Do not assume a pattern supports a particular fabric unless its guidance says so.
Should you choose a standalone pattern or a multi-garment packet?
Choose a multi-garment pattern if you also want shirts or coordinated sleepwear. Choose a shorts-focused design if you prefer a simpler project scope. For a clearly labeled boxer project, prioritize 8180; for unisex casual shorts with pockets and a drawstring, consider 9795.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which listed pattern is specifically for boxer shorts?
Simplicity 8180 is the only product in this selection that explicitly names boxer shorts in its description.
Are pajama shorts the same as boxer shorts?
Not necessarily. A pajama pattern may include shorts, but its description does not confirm boxer-style construction or underwear use.
Which option includes unisex sizing?
Simplicity 9795 is described as a unisex pull-on shorts pattern in sizes XS through XXL.
Can I pick a sewing-pattern size based on my usual clothing size?
Use the pattern’s body chart instead. Sewing-pattern sizing may differ from ready-to-wear measurements.