I was still having trouble with the strength of my faux flatlock seams (the gray beta tights failed after my last post) but I’d also gone ahead and bought a lot more fabric for gym tights. What to do? Revert to regular serging and keep on sewing.
Since I was working with prints–and to limit the seams–I did the version of the Super G Tights without the side pockets. I used a twin needle to topstitch the front and back and waistband seams and left the gusset seam just plain, and it’s fine. (I was worried there might be too much bulk with a serged seam allowance but I don’t notice it.)
Because I made the version without the side pockets, I got fancy and added a back welt pocket for my phone using this tutorial.
Speaking of fancy, how great are these prints?! The leopard is a nylon athletic tricot from Mood–it’s definitely lightweight but it passes the squat test for sheerness. The Hawaiian print is the Pine Crest Fabrics “Athletic Double Knit” from Fabric.com--it’s a great medium weight, very smooth (and smoothing) and also not sheer at all.
I’ve noticed a little bit of side eye at the gym when I wear these (the craziest leggings color women wear there is burgundy) but I don’t care. I love prints and if I can wear them even while I get swole, I’m happy.