The Lightning Leggings is a quick-sew unisex leggings pattern with all the options!
There are separate pattern pieces for cloth nappy wearers and for those in undies/ disposable nappies. There is also a relaxed option and a traditional slim fit option. Additionally, you can choose from an elasticated waist or a jersey cuff, and hemmed or cuffed legs. Finally, there are three lengths – ankle, capri and knee.
An overlocker/serger will create the neatest finish but all options can be made using a regular sewing machine.
The pattern is beginner friendly and designed for knit fabrics with good stretch and return such as cotton/Lycra jersey.
This listing is for 4 downloadable PDF files: Instructions, a print-at-home pattern, a copy shop pattern and a projector pattern.
Print the print-at-home pattern on A4/legal/letter sized paper.
Take the copy shop file to a professional printer to print onto large sheets of paper.
Use the projector file to project the pattern straight onto your fabric.
Join the Waves & Wild Facebook Group for more photos, inspiration and assistance.
The measurement charts for all W&W patterns can be found here.
The pattern is created in layers meaning you can print just the layers (sizes) you need.
Looking for a free top pattern instead? Try the Amber Singlet.
This is an instant download PDF, not a finished item. Due to the digital nature of PDF patterns, no refund can be given if purchased in error.
Mrs Clarke –
A really simple, easy to follow pattern. Perfect for beginners like me
Abigail J Carless (verified owner) –
These are the easiest leggings to put together, I was very surprised at first to the name but after making a pair and they really are super quick. Definitely making more.
Fabienne Schulte (verified owner) –
This is a quick and easy sew. The fit is really great and suitable for slim babies, too!
Esther Emond –
Tank you
Catherine (verified owner) –
This is a fantastic pattern, really easy to sew with clear instructions and a lovely fit.
I used it to make my tall daughter shorts that are long enough for her to slide comfortably on a slide without getting stuck unlike most girls RTW shorts! Simple to use an age 4 width and 5 length and they were perfect on the first try.
As a new sewer iI did a whole pair in an evening including printing the pattern and cutting them out – the first garment where I didn’t have to unpick a single seam.
Tiffany (verified owner) –
This pattern is my go to for kids leggings. I love that it has options for the fit and isn’t a unnecessarily gendered pattern. I use the relaxed fit with a cuff for my kiddo’s pajamas in winter and the same for a shorts length in summer.
Super easy to sew up and the instructions are clear. This one is a winner.
Rachel (verified owner) –
Such a quick and easy pattern. Love both the leggings length and the shorts.
Emma Scorah (verified owner) –
These are so simple to make. I love the different fit options, especially the cloth nappy option. A great staple pattern to have.
Mireia Tarragó (verified owner) –
Straightforward pattern and a quick make. I love that there are several lengths, cuffs option and 2 different waistbands. And, as always, the pattern has a projector version and layers that makes it be even better!
Sam Martin (verified owner) –
Absolutely brilliant pattern! Have made many for my kids since babies, through cloth nappies and then into undies and been able to tailor the fit without having to do any adjusting myself – its all included! Works well for day clothes and perfect for pj bottoms as well
Anna –
Versatile and easy. Nice to have different nappy options.
Sharleene Weeks (verified owner) –
Such a quick easy pattern to sew up, this is a staple in my daughter’s wardrobes and have used them for pj shorts for all three children.
lizwallace (verified owner) –
A great leggings pattern with clear, easy to follow instructions and it’s free too.
Eva (verified owner) –
Love these with the yoga band for kids pjs
Dorothy (verified owner) –
I absolutely recommend this pattern, a quick and easy sew, great as a gift too, taking measurements and adjusting is really worth it, as this way they can be perfect for very slim kids too, or comfortable for chubbier ones, you will get very comfortable leggings lasting for a long time – I usually add some length to make sure they last long for sure.