I wanted to sew a nightgown for Patsy for Christmas. Several years ago, I ordered quite a few pieces of flannel on Thanksgiving night from the JoAnn’s website. Then, before I knew it, we were packing, living in a camper, moving into this house and my fabric was stacked in the shop, in bins. I am now able to access it easily, and pulled this piece out for this project.
I started with this really old pattern. I’ve used it time and time again. But this time, I wanted something a little different. I cut view C, but made the bottom straight instead of curved. I also widened the skirt out quite a bit, tapering from the armholes down to the skirt bottom–I probably added 4 inches on each side to give it some fullness (so that’s about 16 extra inches of fullness because I cut it on both front and back). Then, I cut a wide ruffle about 1-1/2 times the measurement of the skirt bottom, which I gathered and sewed onto the bottom.
It went together quickly and my only concern is that I cut that ruffle too wide, and the nightgown will drag on the floor. That’s easy enough to remedy, if that turns out to be the case–flannel usually shrinks, so after it is washed a few times, if it’s still too long, I’ll cut it off and re-hem it. I always put a ribbon bow on the front of these nightgowns to show which side is the front so getting ready for bed is fast and easy.
I was delighted to get another Christmas gift finished up, and used up a piece of fabric I’ve had for quite some time. Even better, it’s something she really needs right now. However, as has been happening lately, I ran out of pale blue thread. When I saw that was going to happen, I sewed everything that would show–the hem, the casing, etc. Then, for the gathering threads, which I was going to throw away anyway, I used a bobbin of a totally different color, with the last bit of the pale blue on the spool. It worked out, and I avoided a trip to the store today, saving both gas and money. I will replace that color soon, to have on hand, as blues are something I use a lot of, the next time I’m near JoAnn’s.
Becky at Home 
super cute! sewing was something i just couldn’t do despite lessons and help from others. i am in awe of others who can create such beauty with fabric
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My mother was so patient with me. She started each of us girls when we reached 5th grade. I would sew while she cooked dinner. I was supposed to read the directions, and do the step if I could, then she would come set me straight if I didn’t understand. So, it was pretty painless to learn, but it did take several years. I remember sewing parties with my Grandma, too, where I sat and sewed while she ironed and pinned things together and told me what to do, so we got those projects done fast. I think some of those experiences were the reasons I ended up liking it so much. The machine worked and I had people who set me straight before I had time to get frustrated. For years.
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what wonderful memories you have with your mom and grandmother. i think if i would have had such pleasant experiences i would be able to sew. great stories, thank you for sharing!
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You are welcome. I do have wonderful memories. Thank you for helping me remember that with your comment–I was trying to think of why I like to sew and that’s certainly a big part of it.
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those are very good reasons to enjoy sewing!
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🙂
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So cute, Patsy will love it.
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Thank you. I like the bottom ruffle. I will seem like a whole new pattern to her:). Plus, the cupcakes are a print she will like.
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I love the nightgown! Patsy will be lucky to have such a cozy and cute nightdress. I continue to be in awe of your sewing skills and productivity.
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Thank you. I have sewed so many of those nightgowns over the years–for daughters and cousins and little friends, in every size possible, that they go together easily for me. That helped me get it done fast, as well as the fact that I actually had every supply on hand this time:)
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Love the fabric. And it looks so comfy.
Great story about your mom and Grandma and how they taught you to sew. Sounds like they were great role models.
Thinking it’s time for me to start on a crochet project.
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Thank you. Yes they were. Actually, my Mom still is:)
Crochet sounds like a great idea. I like that, too.
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I tried knitting but I’m better with the crochet hook. Those are my crafty things to do, especially this time of year.
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I’m right with you–knitting is not my friend, either!
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I love that fabric! You did a great job (as usual), with the sewing. Loved reading about your learning to sew from your mother and grandmother. I hated sewing when I was growing up, but eventually learned to like it (for the most part!)
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I agree that those cupcakes are super cute, and of course, low-calorie so we can have them around here:)
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I have that exact pattern!!! I LOVE the nightgown! I’m sure Patsy will absolutely love it! I’ve never used the nightgown pattern only the pants. It’s such an easy pants pattern! I’m going to have to try out the nightgown after I get all settled in my new house!
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It’s really easy to make! It is rather narrow, though, so depending on how you like your nightgowns, you may want to add a little on the sides, or not. I’ve done it both ways according to the likes/dislikes of the recipient. Also, elastic can be put in the arms, using a casing, but this child likes the arms loose.
I hope you are able to settle in to your new house soon. Although there’s nothing comforting about the chaos of moving, I always like the super clean and organized feeling after everything gets put away.
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You have inspired me. Yesterday I went upstairs (not easy to do) and sat down at my sewing table (after I moved the mending out of the chair) and (then I knocked the spider webs from my machine) and began sewing. It felt good to be sitting there again. I made 5 kitchen washcloths. I had so few I was constantly running out. I need more, but this got me started. The first step is often the hardest.
Jeannie@GetMetoTheCountry
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I agree! After finally finding what I needed for that first little dress, I have been able to crank out the projects pretty quickly. I put it all away yesterday, though, since we have the kids all weekend, and we need a little room to do such mundane things like eat. You know…stuff like that! But, it was fun to have a sewing binge while it lasted:)
Good luck on your projects. Washcloths are certainly a useful one.
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That is adorable. There is nothing like comfy cotton flannel.
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Thank you. It is super soft, for sure!
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It turned out great ❤️ Nice job.
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Thank you. Say, Rhonda, your blog will absolutely not let me comment whatever I try. So just know, I’m enjoying reading the posts you are writing! Hopefully, things will resolve sooner or later. There are a couple of others I cannot comment on anymore, either:(
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