We have a very exciting new release to share with you - meet the Joe pyjama bottoms and shorts, our first menswear sewing pattern!
After the success of our Jaimie PJs, we decided to create a matching digital-only menswear pyjama pattern so you, or a loved one, can lounge at home in me-made style! They're are perfect for all manner of activities, from relaxing at home, sleeping, or pairing with a smart shirt during Zoom meetings (#2020).
This pattern is so easy to make, it's ideal for complete beginners. If you're new to sewing and want an extra guiding hand, we have a free video tutorial on how to sew pyjama bottoms from start to finish. The video shows Tilly making the Jaimie pyjama bottoms, but the steps are exactly the same for Joe - yay!
One of the best things about the Joe PJs is you can match your me-mades with a partner, family member or friend. If you don't yet own the Jaimie pyjama bottoms and shorts, you can purchase the Jaimie and Joe PJs sewing pattern bundle at a discount and match to your heart's content.
Is it too early to mention Christmas? Because this is a great pattern from which to whip up a load of handmade prezzies! Wacky fabric isn't obligatory but is highly encouraged.
The PJs are modelled by my (Nikki's) lovely husband Dan (that's me with him in the photo above). He was a great sport and even agreed to match with me in cats in Christmas hats fabric!
THE DESIGN
The Joe PJs are drafted with a longer and straighter menswear fit, and make a quick and easy sewing project that you can whip up in an afternoon.
You can make the Joe PJs as ether full-length pyjama bottoms or above-the-knee shorts so they're perfect for lounging all year round! They have a low-rise, elasticated waist and relaxed-fit making them oh so comfy to wear. If you want to add an interesting detail (or if you can't get your hands on any elastic) you can add the optional drawstring to give your them some intensely classic pyjama vibes.
THE SEWING PATTERN
Our award-winning sewing patterns feature clear instructions with step-by-step colour photos to guide you through the project. The pattern pieces themselves are clearly labelled so you can see which seam is which and how they go together.
Joe is a digital-only pattern. When you buy the pattern, you'll be emailed a PDF pattern for immediate download. You can either print it at home on A4 or Letter size paper and stick the sheets together, or send the A0 version to a copyshop or pattern printer to print full scale.
The Joe pyjama bottoms and shorts are suitable for all sewing levels, from complete novices to experienced makers. To help any newbies out there, we have a free step-by-step video tutorial that shows you how to make a pair of pyjama bottoms from start to finish, from cutting out the fabric to sewing your final stitch.
The only vaguely fiddly part is the buttonholes, but these are for the optional drawstring only, so you can always leave them out. If you do want to have a go at sewing buttonholes, we have made videos on how to sew both one-step buttonholes and four-step buttonholes (depending on your machine) - go check them out!
We've also posted some resources for you to check out on the dedicated Joe page on the blog, including zigzag finishing if you don't own an overlocker or serger. Even though they're very simple to fit, we're going to publish a blog post very soon which will explain how to choose your size and make any simple fitting adjustments to your pattern. As always, Louise is going to share with us some gorgeous fabrics and PJs inspo to get your creative juices flowing.
SIZING AND SUPPLIES
The Joe pyjamas are available in ten sizes, from sizes 28-46 (based on a low waist measurement in inches). You can see the exact body measurements on the sizing chart. If you're making them as a surprise gift and are unsure about which size to make, take a sneaky peek at the waist size in the recipient's jeans and pick a corresponding waist size :)
The Joe pyjama bottoms have an inside leg measurement of 81.5cm (32in). If you think these will be a bit long or short, you can lengthen or shorten the legs to get a perfect fit. Check out our dedicated blog post which covers lengthening and shortening pattern pieces in more detail.
Joe works with easy-to-find, easy-to-sew fabrics such as cotton lawn, shirting, flannel, quilting cotton and double gauze. If you're a more confident stitcher you could also try a luxurious viscose (rayon) for a more sophisticated look.
The great thing about making Joe is you don't need that many supplies to make it - score! It's only two or three pattern pieces, depending on whether you add the drawstring, plus some 25mm (1in) wide elastic for the waist. Check out the online shop page to see exactly what you need. If you can't get your hands on any elastic then worry not - you can cinch the PJs in at the waist with the drawstring alone.
Excited to make the Joe pyjama bottoms or shorts? Grab a copy from our online shop today.
We love seeing your progress shots and finished makes, so please tag us on Instagram @TillyButtons using the hashtag #SewingJoe so we can see your amazing Joe PJs creations!
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