This next project we will be making is fancy long sleeve pajamas, but because it is more complicated, I thought I would do it in several parts. Part one will be choosing a pattern. Whether you are designing your own pattern or choosing one from the store.  There are a few key things to look for when you are choosing a pattern.

For these pajamas, you will want to choose a pattern that either has multiple sizes or has the fancier nightgown as part of the pattern.  Why multiple sizes? If you are using a regular t-shirt pajama pattern, you will cut it apart and put it together a bit differently (which I will explain in my next post).

If you are making your own pattern, but haven’t made your own fancier nightgown pattern before, you might want to start with your basic night shirt pattern and adjust it from there.

This style works better with woven fabrics like woven cotton’s, cotton blends and flannels. If you live in a cold climate, you can also use a thin fleece.

Do you have the fabric already? If so, how much do you have. This style often uses a bit more fabric than t-shirt nightgowns. Unless you have a fancier nightgown pattern, be careful, it’s better to buy a little bit too much fabric than a little bit too little.

Are you tall or short? Be sure that the pattern you choose is long enough for you without being too long.

Many patterns are multiple sizes. Some have different pieces while others it’s on one piece and is best if you trace it. I typically like to trace my patterns because they last longer that way.

See if you are able to read the instructions in the store or online. This helps you choose a pattern where the instructions make the most sense to you.

There are many brands: Kwik Sew, McCalls, Simplicity, Vogue, Butterick and many more. Each is better than the others in some ways, and not as good as the others, but you can always adjust your pattern to suit you.

Good Luck.

Stay tuned for Part 2 – Adjusting the pattern, cutting it out, and the best embellishments.

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