14 July 2015

Introducing the Fifi Sewing Pattern

Fifi sewing pattern - camisole and shorts set for the boudoir - Tilly and the Buttons


Exciting times as we launch not one but two new sewing patterns – wardrobe staples to see you through Summer days and Summer nights...

For Summer nights, meet the Fifi camisole and shorts set.

Fifi sewing pattern - camisole and shorts set for the boudoir - Tilly and the Buttons
Fifi sewing pattern - camisole and shorts set for the boudoir - Tilly and the Buttons

Fifi is a lovely set of dainties for lounging at home or wearing to bed. Oh là là!

Fifi sewing pattern - camisole and shorts set for the boudoir - Tilly and the Buttons
Fifi sewing pattern - camisole and shorts set for the boudoir - Tilly and the Buttons
Fifi sewing pattern - camisole and shorts set for the boudoir - Tilly and the Buttons

The camisole is cut on the bias to create a flowing shape to skim your curves, with feminine, soft pleated cups. The back bodice is gently shaped with princess seams, so you can easily fit it to the curve of your back if you wish (note that it’s not supposed to cling to your body though). The top of the camisole is finished with self-made bias binding, which also forms the straps. You can also use a narrow strip of binding to add a little bow at the front if you like. (Go on.)

Fifi sewing pattern - camisole and shorts set for the boudoir - Tilly and the Buttons
Fifi sewing pattern - camisole and shorts set for the boudoir - Tilly and the Buttons

The pattern also includes cute little shorts that are perfect for the boudoir. They have a narrow stitched-in elastic waistband and cheeky curved hems. While the camisole is cut on the bias, the shorts are cut on the straight grain. We tried both ways and think they look nicer this way – less flouncy, and the waistband looks much neater.

Fifi sewing pattern - camisole and shorts set for the boudoir - Tilly and the Buttons
Fifi sewing pattern - camisole and shorts set for the boudoir - Tilly and the Buttons
Fifi sewing pattern - camisole and shorts set for the boudoir - Tilly and the Buttons
Fifi sewing pattern - camisole and shorts set for the boudoir - Tilly and the Buttons

The Fifi sewing pattern is a treat for stitchers looking to advance their skills – it’s such a pleasurable project to get stuck into. There’s something so satisfying about sewing on a small scale, using intricate techniques and taking care over each step. It’s addictive!

This is probably our most advanced pattern yet, but as always we provide plenty of hand-holding should you need it. So while we wouldn't suggest beginners tackle this one just yet, if you've sewn a few things before and are ready to step up your game and learn some new techniques that you can apply to this and other projects, this pattern might be for you. The instructions will walk you through how to sew bias cut fabric, create binding and finish the insides with impressive narrow French seams. The most challenging step is probably easing the cup curves to the camisole, so we’ll talk about that in a blog post soon.

Choose a lightweight drapey fabric that feel nice against the skin. Cotton lawn or voile are nice and easy to sew with (we used Cloud9 Escapade organic cotton voile), or if you’re feeling more confident try something silky and luxurious. Since the camisole is cut on the bias and the shorts on the straight grain, we’d advise against directional prints, unless you don’t mind them running at different angles.

We'll talk more about fabric suggestions in another blog post soon, so watch this space...

Fifi sewing pattern - camisole and shorts set for the boudoir - Tilly and the Buttons

Fifi sewing pattern - camisole and shorts set for the boudoir - Tilly and the Buttons

The pattern comes in eight different sizes (roughly equivalent to UK 6 – 20). Take a look at the sizing chart, full supplies list and fabric requirements. We'll talk about choosing your size and making fitting adjustments - including for smaller or larger boobs - in a future post.

Like all Tilly and the Buttons sewing patterns, Fifi includes jargon-busting instructions, handy sewing tips, and colour photos showing you each step – helping you to create gorgeous clothes you can be proud to say you made yourself.

Order the printed pattern and we’ll send you a beautiful pattern in the post, with full size pattern sheets and colour booklet. We ship around the world, or in the next few days you’ll also be able to order the pattern from one of our lovely stockists. (If you prefer, you can order the digital pattern and we’ll email you instantly with a PDF version of the pattern and instructions to print and stick together at home.)

Fifi sewing pattern - camisole and shorts set for the boudoir - Tilly and the Buttons

So that’s your Summer nights sorted… and Summer days?

Meet Bettine!

Bettine + Fifi sewing patterns - Tilly and the Buttons



Photography: Fanni Williams
Hair and make up: Elbie van Eeden
Model: Kamay Kan
Fabric: Fabric: Cloud9 Escapade organic cotton voile courtesy of Hantex
Special thanks to our fantastic pattern testers for your discerning eyes and invaluable feedback x x x

*Offer expires Sunday 19 July 2015 at midnight GMT. Offer only available at shop.tillyandthebuttons.com on the Bettine and Fifi printed (not digital) sewing patterns, by ordering the Bettine + Fifi bundle.