Easy Nightgowns

Here we go, are you ready for this? I have this serious (first world) problem when it comes to pajamas. I can't bring myself to paying $10-$15 dollars on something no one is ever going to see my daughters wear.  But at the same time, I don't want my girls going to bed in something ugly. What can I say, I like pretty things.

Then, the easy nightgown tutorial was born. Thought I'd share.

First lets start by letting you know, this cost me nothing! I made six nightgowns with all stuff I had on hand. I know it wont be like this for everyone but I seriously think you could buy the materials for ten to fifteen dollars, for six. So the cost of one set of jammies, you get six ridiculously cute ones.

 I do have a serious problem hoarding vintage sheets and pillowcases. I raided my stash. Whenever I go to the thrift store I always hit up the sheets and grab me some pretty fabric. They are generally pretty cheap, I think all of mine were a dollar. All the shirts I used were either shirts that got too short on the girls or my old shirts that I re-sized, ooh, maybe another tutorial on that coming later.

 I cut my pillowcase 20 inches from the hem. My girls are five and three, but on the small size. The girls share pajamas so when my three year old wears these gowns they are maxi length. But I wanted them to be big so they can wear them for a long time. You should just measure you're child for the best length. I cut the shirt an inch or so under the armpit.

 Next, you want to gather the cut edge of the pillow case. I used my serger but you totally don't need a serger for this project. You can gather any way you want.

 I used hem tape because I had it on hand but you really don't need it if you don't want to purchase it. The hem tape keeps the knit shirt from stretching too much as you sew it together. I attached the hem tape with my serger but again, you certainly can use a sewing machine. Use a zigzag stitch for a cleaner seam.

 I certainly am a minimalist when it comes to pinning (ha ha, not on Pinterest though). Feel free to pin to your hearts content. It does make it a little easier though.

 plug that baby through the machine and you are almost done....

 Well, actually you can be done if you want. I think these are super adorable with no embellishments. My daughters, on the other hand, fight over the ones with lace, so sometimes I add a little for funzy.

 Do you love the collar? I love it! Maddie is wearing this one tonight and she looks so cute.  Now, I kind of want people to come over and see the girls in their jammies.

... and I'm not so embarrassed when someone comes by in the morning (or the afternoon) and they aren't dressed yet.

Here's a closer look at the six.

Hope you love them too!!