High-quality packing underwear is essential when packing, but it can be pricey. If you're on a budget, haven't come out yet, or simply love getting crafty, making your own DIY packing underwear might be the perfect solution for you.
This guide walks you through creating homemade packer boxers step by step — from choosing the right base underwear to sewing the perfect pouch. Even if you've never sewn before, you can make functional packing underwear at home in under an hour.
Why Packing Underwear Matters
Good packing underwear isn't just about keeping your packer in place — it's about confidence, comfort, and feeling like yourself. When your packer shifts, moves around, or creates an unnatural bulge, it can cause anxiety and self-consciousness. The right underwear solves these problems.
New to packing? Explore our full range of FTM Packers to find the right fit for your DIY underwear.
Keeps Packer Secure
Prevents shifting, slipping, and awkward adjustments throughout the day.
Creates Natural Look
Proper positioning creates a realistic, masculine silhouette in any clothing.
All-Day Comfort
Distributes weight evenly and prevents chafing so you can focus on your day.
Boosts Confidence
Knowing your packer is secure lets you move freely — at work, gym, or anywhere.
Active Lifestyle Ready
Good packing underwear stays in place during exercise and physical activity.
Discreet Security
Internal pouch keeps your packer hidden — even in public changing rooms.
Choosing the Right Base Underwear
The foundation of great DIY packing underwear starts with selecting the right base. Not all underwear is suitable for modification — you need something that will hold your packer securely while remaining comfortable for all-day wear.
✓ DO Choose
✗ DON'T Choose
Materials You'll Need
Before you start, gather all your supplies. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and help you create better results.
🛠️ Complete Supply List
Step-by-Step Sewing Tutorial
Follow these steps carefully to create your own packing underwear with a secure internal pouch. Take your time — rushing leads to mistakes that affect the final result.
Measure Your Packer
Lay your packer on the fabric and measure how much material you'll need. Add about 1 inch (2.5 cm) on each side for seam allowance. The pouch should be slightly larger than your packer to allow easy insertion.
Cut Your Fabric
Using sharp scissors, cut the fabric according to your measurements. Make sure edges are clean and straight. If your fabric frays easily, consider using pinking shears or folding edges before sewing.
Turn Underwear Inside Out
Flip your boxer briefs inside out. You'll be sewing the pouch to the inner layer only. Working inside-out allows you to hide your stitches for a cleaner look.
Position the Pouch
Using your measuring tape, figure out the best position for your pouch based on your anatomy and comfort. Use pins to hold the fabric in place temporarily before sewing.
Sew the Sides and Bottom
Sew the fabric to the underwear along three sides — left, right, and bottom. Leave the top completely open to create the pocket opening. Use small, tight stitches for durability.
Important: Don't Sew Through!
Be very careful not to sew through all layers including the outer fabric. Only attach the pouch to the inner layer. Sewing through both layers will close off the underwear and make them unwearable!
Reinforce Your Stitches
Go back and double-stitch the corners and edges where the most stress will occur. This prevents the pouch from tearing away after repeated use and washing.
Turn Right-Side Out & Test
Flip the underwear right-side out and test your creation! Insert your packer into the pouch, put on the underwear, and check if the fit is comfortable and the position looks natural. Make adjustments if needed.
💡 Pro Tip: Start Simple
For your first attempt, use an old pair of underwear you don't mind ruining. Practice makes perfect!
💡 Pro Tip: Use Strong Thread
Regular sewing thread may break over time. Use heavy-duty or upholstery thread for better durability.
Video Tutorial
Sometimes seeing the process in action helps! Check out this excellent video tutorial from MackMan — he explains everything clearly while keeping things entertaining.
MackMan's DIY Packing Underwear Tutorial
MackMan breaks down the entire process step-by-step with helpful tips and a great sense of humor. Highly recommended for visual learners!
Fabric Selection Guide
The fabric you choose for your pouch matters more than you might think. It will be against your skin all day, so comfort is crucial — and it needs to be durable enough to hold your packer securely.
✨ Recommended Fabrics
Choose soft, breathable materials that won't irritate your skin during all-day wear.
Cotton Jersey
Soft, breathable, easy to sew
Cotton Blend
Stretchy, durable, comfortable
Modal
Ultra-soft, moisture-wicking
Old T-Shirt
Free, soft, already broken-in
Pouch Positioning Guide
Where you place your pouch affects how natural your packer looks and how comfortable it feels. Everyone's anatomy is different, so experiment to find what works best for you.
🎯 Key Positioning Tip
Use pins to test different placements before sewing permanently. The most important thing is that your packer looks natural and feels comfortable.
Higher Position
More visible bulge, better for larger packers
Center Position
Most common, works for most body types
Lower Position
Subtle look, more comfortable sitting
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learning from others' mistakes can save you time and frustration. Here are the most common pitfalls when making DIY packing underwear.
Sewing through both layers — closes off the underwear entirely
Making pouch too small — packer won't fit or will be uncomfortable
Using scratchy fabric — will irritate skin all day long
Weak stitching — pouch will tear away after a few uses
Wrong positioning — packer looks unnatural or feels awkward
Choosing loose underwear — no support, packer moves around
Know Your DIY Limitations
DIY packing underwear is a great way to get started, experiment with positioning, and figure out what works for your body — all without spending much money. That said, it's good to know where homemade solutions have their limits.
⚠️ What to Keep in Mind
Homemade packing underwear works well for casual use and experimentation, but there are some trade-offs:
- Durability: Hand-sewn stitches may loosen after repeated washing. Reinforce seams regularly and check for wear.
- Discretion: Visible seams can be a concern in shared changing rooms. Double-fold your seam allowances for a cleaner finish.
- Heavy packers: Lightweight soft packers work best in DIY pouches. Heavier STP devices may cause fabric to sag over time.
- Consistency: Each pair you make will be slightly different. Keep notes on measurements so you can replicate your best results.
If you find yourself making multiple pairs or need something more reliable for daily wear, purpose-built packing underwear is worth exploring.
Travel and Storage Tips
Traveling with packing underwear doesn't have to be stressful. A little planning goes a long way whether you're heading out for a weekend or a long vacation.
🧳 Packing Underwear for Travel
- Fold and organize: Fold your underwear into neat, compact shapes. Folding inside out keeps them clean and makes it easy to spot which pairs are ready to wear.
- Use a small pouch: Keep packing underwear separate from regular clothing in a small fabric bag or packing cube for easy access.
- Maximize space: Fill suitcase corners with rolled-up underwear and socks — this cushions your packer and other delicate items too.
- Protect and secure: Wrap delicate pairs in a soft cloth or use a packing cube to prevent wrinkles and damage.
- DIY storage: Sew a small pouch from soft fabric and attach it inside your suitcase for a discreet, dedicated spot.
🏠 Home Storage Tips
- Designate a drawer or container just for packing underwear and related items
- Use dividers or small pouches to keep everything organized
- Store right-side out for quick access, or inside out for extra cleanliness
With practice, your DIY packing underwear will get better every time.
💜 You Deserve to Feel Confident
Being crafty and making DIY packing underwear is great for getting started. It might feel weird at first, but that's totally normal. Every pair you make teaches you more about what works for your body. You deserve to feel comfortable and confident — whether you make it yourself or upgrade later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of underwear is best for making DIY packing underwear?
Boxer briefs with a snug fit and cotton or cotton-blend material work best. Look for pairs with a double-layered front panel and strong elastic waistband. Avoid loose boxers, silk, satin, or worn-out underwear — they won't provide enough support or hold up to sewing.
How long does it take to make DIY packing underwear?
Most people can complete a pair in 30–60 minutes, depending on sewing experience. If you've never sewn before, your first pair might take closer to an hour. By the second or third pair, you'll have the process down to about 30 minutes.
What fabric should I use for the packer pouch?
Cotton jersey, cotton blends, or modal fabric work well — they're soft, breathable, and comfortable against skin. An old t-shirt is a free option that's already broken in. Avoid scratchy or stiff fabrics that could cause irritation during all-day wear.
Can DIY packing underwear hold heavier prosthetics?
DIY pouches work best with lightweight soft packers. Heavier prosthetics like STP devices or pack-and-play models may cause the fabric to sag over time. For heavier prosthetics, purpose-built packing underwear with reinforced 3-layer pouches provides better support.
How do I wash DIY packing underwear?
Wash them with your regular laundry, but place them in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect the hand-sewn pouch. Use cold or warm water — hot water can weaken thread over time. Check stitches regularly and reinforce any that start to loosen.
Where should I position the pouch?
Center position works for most body types. Use pins to test different placements before sewing permanently. Higher placement creates a more visible bulge (better for larger packers), while lower placement gives a subtler look that's more comfortable for sitting.
Looking for a packer to go with your new underwear? Shop FTM Packers — realistic soft packers designed for everyday comfort.
Ready for Professional Packing Underwear?
When you're ready to upgrade from DIY, explore TRUHK and SHIFT packing underwear — designed for trans men with built-in pouches, premium materials, and all-day comfort.
