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Thursday, April 30, 2015

Thrifty Thursday/Free Pajama Pant Pattern

When I came across the free peasant dress/top pattern from Martha Stewart, I also found a free pajama pant pattern. It looked simple and easy, just as a pajama pant should be. Now many of us who have been sewing for quite some time probably have a pajama pant in in our collection of patterns. Pajamas really don't change that much, maybe a little design change here and there,but for the most part, pajamas are pajamas. With all of that in mind, I thought I would still give the pattern a try. I realized that there are many who are new to sewing and as I thought about the pattern, I realized that it could possibly meet a lot of other needs, like teaching someone how to sew. For anyone who may be teaching a summer camp, this is a great pattern for teenagers. The parents will also thank you since it's free, just the cost of printing it out. The pattern is easy to sew and easy to download and tape together.
Here's the pattern once it has been taped together. One person commented that they were upset as had the pattern been moved down a bit, 5 sheets of paper could have been saved. That wasn't a huge deal for me, I recycle the paper, so it just went in the recycle bin.
The only issue I had with the pattern was the front crotch.As you can see in the picture below, the lines do not meet up. It turned out not to be an issue. I just smoothed out the line and went on my merry way.
There are a couple of issues with the materials list. 2 yards of 45" wide fabric will not yield a pair of pants. You will need closer to 2 3/4 yards for the pants. Also, 1 yard for the drawstring is too skimpy. Buy at least 1 1/2 yards of ribbon or twill tape. You want enough to go around your lower waist and still have enough to tie a decent bow.
Once you cut the pants out, sew up each leg. I like to try a leg on just to check the crotch depth and how the pant leg is fitting over all. Since this is intended for sleep wear, you're looking for comfort and that means ease in the pattern. There's nothing worse than a tight pair of pajama pants. At least in my book. The pant pattern was quite long. In fact, I cut 3" off the length of the each leg and still had 2" for hemming.
Just in case you are wondering, yes, it's airplanes!!! I really like airplanes ;)
And now for a very bad picture of me in my pajama pants., no makeup and all!!! The fit is great, not at all constricting. I decided to add elastic to my waistband in addition to the ribbon. After all they are pajama pants and rather like not having to deal with tying my pants if I happen to get up at night.  
You can find the free download of the pattern HERE. I also like the fact that there is a video that accompanies the pattern and instructions. A great tool if you are working with someone who is learning to sew. The video can be found just off to the side of the instructions.
So other than the few issues I told you about earlier, I really like my new pair of pajama pants and I will be making more. The pants would be great with the addition of a side seam pocket. Or you could add back hip pockets. You can also cut the pattern down and make drawstring shorts. The pants would make a great summer pant out of a fun cotton print or gauze. Or you could also use them as a cover up for your swimsuit. So lots of possibilities.
A great pairing with the pajama pants would be the free Tonic Tee pattern from SBCC. Remember, there's a short and long sleeve version!

9 comments:

  1. Totally agree about elastic in the top. I hate tying and untying pants. I wouldn't even put the tie inside. Love your airplanes!
    Hugs, Joy

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    1. I added the ribbon just for looks. Kinda softens the look a bit.
      I love vintage airplanes. Actually, I like all airplanes. I was out at the airport earlier this week. Love walking around them and even more, I love being able to fly them!!! I guess wearing them to bed is a little on the juvenile side, but oh well!!!! Life's short, might as well have fun :)

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  2. Always love a good pair of comfy pants. Yours are so cute and the material suits you! By the way, you are always beautiful as ever with or without make up.

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    1. I wore them to bed last night and they felt so good. So happy I made them.
      As for the makeup, well, you are very kind ;)

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  3. You are sure right about fastening pjs - who wants that in the middle of the night! I love the fabric print you used.

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    1. Thanks! It's a fun print. Reminds me of Amelia Earhart :)

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  4. Cute Jammie's! Love the planes! Thanks for showcasing this great beginner pattern.

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  5. What material did you use? I'd like something other than flannel but don't want a wrinkled mess

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    1. I've made 2 pair out of flannel, but those you see above are cotton. I really haven't had a problem with them being super wrinkled. Just made 2 more pair in cotton, and they too have been fine. They are easy to make and a 'dream' to wear for sleeping. I have REALLY enjoyed the pattern and my pajama pants 😊

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