If you love sewing and want to add professional structure to your handmade garments, learning how to make shoulder pads instead of buying them is a skill worth mastering. Whether you're working with vintage sewing patterns, modern designs, or tailored jackets, handmade shoulder pads are cost-effective, customizable, and surprisingly simple to sew. At The Designer's Needle, I love providing sewing enthusiasts with valuable tips, and today, we’re diving into the easy process of making your shoulder pads!
Why Make Your Shoulder Pads?
While store-bought shoulder pads are readily available, they can be expensive, bulky, or not the right shape for your garment. Here’s why making your own is a great alternative:
Cost-Effective – Save money using fabric scraps and batting instead of purchasing pre-made pads.
Custom Fit – Adjust the thickness, shape, and size to match your sewing project perfectly.
Better Quality Control – Choose soft, comfortable materials that won’t feel stiff or awkward.
Matches Your Project – Use fabrics and padding that blend seamlessly into your garment.
Materials Needed for DIY Shoulder Pads
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
Muslin, fleece, or cotton fabric (for the outer cover)
Batting, felt, or foam (for padding)
Sewing machine or hand-sewing needle
Scissors, pins, and measuring tape
Pattern or template (you can trace an old shoulder pad or use a sewing pattern requiring shoulder pads)
Step-by-Step Guide to Sewing Shoulder Pads
Create a Pattern – If your sewing pattern doesn’t include a shoulder pad template, trace a curved shape that fits the shoulder seam of your garment. A crescent or oval shape works well.
Cut Your Fabric and Padding – Cut two fabric pieces (one for each shoulder) and two or more layers of batting for each pad, depending on the thickness needed. Layer the batting inside for extra structure.
Layer the Padding – Stack the padding pieces inside the fabric, placing thinner layers on top and thicker layers at the bottom to create a natural slope.
Sew the Edges – Sew around the fabric edges, encasing the batting inside. Use a zigzag stitch or hand-stitch for a clean, professional finish.
Shape and Adjust – Try your homemade shoulder pads with the garment and adjust the padding if needed before permanently attaching them.
Attach to Garment – You can sew them directly into the shoulder seams or attach them with snaps or Velcro for removable pads.
Sewing Patterns That Require Shoulder Pads
Many vintage and modern sewing patterns call for shoulder pads to achieve the structured look of jackets, blouses, and dresses. If you’re looking for sewing patterns that feature shoulder pads, check out my Mercari and Bonanza booth, where I have a curated selection of sewing patterns for fashion-forward sewists!
Learning how to make shoulder pads instead of buying them gives you complete creative control over the fit and structure of your sewing projects. It’s a cost-effective, simple, and rewarding sewing technique that enhances any tailored garment.
Next time you purchase a sewing pattern requiring shoulder pads, try making them for a custom fit. Be sure to visit The Designer’s Needle for more sewing tips, pattern recommendations, and handmade fashion inspiration!