001∕Pyjamas

Garment number 001
Fabric Space cotton wine
Pattern Simplicity 8179
Colour Purple/mauve

My first constructed garment was a pair of pyjama bottoms, made using Simplicity 8179. I made them in a size medium, using a purple printed cotton from Simply Fabrics.

Design

This was a fairly simple pattern that included pockets, an elasticated waist and leg cuffs.

Construction

Assembly

Since this was my first ever attempt, I don’t think there is a lot of value to be added by talking about how easy or difficult this was to assemble. I achieved it in a long day, and the end result looks like trousers, so that’s about all there is to say.

Critique

Looking at my efforts a bit more closely, there are a couple of points I can learn from:

Notice how the seam doesn't lie flat because it is caught in the waistband
The same happened with the pockets – the fabric seems to get caught when it hits the stitch plate
Top stitch needs some practice – it doesn't quite line up!
Closing this opening could have been neater and tighter

Summary

It’s fair to say that I was very pleased with this outcome. I didn’t expect to produce a perfect garment with my first attempt, but I didn’t expect it to turn out this well either. The fact that I even have a wearable item that I made myself is very exciting.