Choose a shorts pattern and fabric
Take waist, hip, rise, and inseam measurements
Wash, dry, and press the fabric
Cut out the pattern pieces
Transfer all markings to the fabric
Sew front pieces together at the crotch seam
Sew back pieces together at the crotch seam
Sew front and back pieces together at the side seams
Sew the inseams
Sew the crotch seam
Finish raw edges with a serger, zigzag stitch, or bias binding
Sew the waistband casing or attach the waistband
Insert elastic or a drawstring if needed
Hem the leg openings
Press all seams
Try on and make any final adjustments