Sunday 19 August 2012

The magic number

In order to practise basic sewing skills like sewing in a straight line and finishing seams (when I said basic I meant basic!) I decided to use Karen's pyjama party sew-along another couple of times.  Instead of PJ trousers I made two pairs of shorts for the summer- and given the recent heat I'm so glad I did!


I'm really pleased with both pairs as I've definitely improved sewing in a straight line, finishing seams and I've learned how to sew a buttonhole using the buttonhole settings on my Bernina 1008. I finished the seams with a vari-overlock stitch and am so happy with how much neater these two pairs are. My final attempt, in the grey fabric, are definitely my favourite as I reduced the length from waist to crotch and they sit a lot better than the other pairs. However I just love the feel of the Liberty fabric of the blue pair so I know I'll get lots of wear out of both pairs.  Copying the style of a pair of M&S PJ's I own I only put elastic in the back and used ribbon for the front.  It was nice to feel confident enough to change the pattern as well! Even on the first pair I made I thought the fit was wrong but it wasn't until the third that I felt confident enough to go with my instincts and cut different to the pattern!


So, I think for the next wee while at least, 3 is the magic number! I'm going to try some basic patterns, such as a pencil skirt, kimono style t-shirt, a dress, three times each - improving my basic skills and my confidence each time.

P.S. I forgot to say where the fabrics are from - the original pair of stripey pyjamas are made with really cheap fabric from Goldhawk Road, a coupe of pounds a metre; the blue fabric is Liberty from their recent sale I think it was reduced to about £9 for a metre remnant; and the grey pair are made from an old pillowcase.

8 comments:

  1. Your PJs are really cute! That's a great idea to practise on something that won't be worn outside the house :) I haven't attempted any trousers or shorts yet, but have plans to try grainline's maritime shorts soon. I might borrow your idea and do a pair of PJ shorts first, though, so I can at least get an idea of some of the fit issues I'm likely to have (as with everything, I'm bound to have many!)

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    1. Thank you! I forgot to say in the post but the grey fabric is an old pillowcase so they only cost me the price of some grey thread and the pink ribbon - even better for practising!
      The maritime shorts pattern is lovely - looking forward to seeing your results!

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  2. I like your idea of modifying the pj pants pattern to sew shorts. They look so comfy!

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    1. They're super comfy, especially as there's no elastic at the front. If this heat continues (quite unlikely in the UK but it's nice to be optimistic) then I'm sure I'll be making a few more pairs!

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  3. I love the grey pair! You've got me looking at all my old pillowcases...

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    1. Thank you! The great thing is I've also got the matching duvet cover to use as well - it's going to be used for skirt & dress lining. I'll be keeping my eye's out in charity shops from now-on for nice sheets and pillows too!

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  4. Replies
    1. Thank you! I'd love to make more pairs but seeing as we're half-way through August and heading towards Autumn here two pairs of shorts are probably enough!

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