Butterick: 5644 (Misses Top)  - Type:Sleepwear  | | Viewed 206 times
| 5 more reviews | Review rated Very Helpful by 5 people | | Reviewed by: | marec | 
 | About marec | | OR USA | | Member since: 5/11/08 | | Reviews written: 126 | | Sewing skills:Intermediate | | Favored by: 56 people | | patterns reviewed: 121 | | Bio: more... |
| | Posted on: | 11/29/12 11:35 AM | | Pattern Size: | Plus-Sized Regular Petite | | Project Photo: |  | | Pattern Photo: | 
Butterick Pattern Info | | Pattern Rating: | Recommend, with Modifications | | See other patterns in this category: Tops | Available for sale on PR: $13.46 (See envelope)  | | | | Fabric: | Cotton-Poly Knit [See other projects in this fabric] | | Related Links | Click on  to add a link |
| This pajama set includes a sleeveless empire top and capri pants. It is made using B 5644 for the top and
B 5499 00P for the capri pants. I'm pleased with the changes I made to both patterns, and will use these as my "go to" pj patterns for the future.
Pattern Description:
MISSES' TOP: Semi-fitted top has elastic casing and gathered lower section. A: Lined upper section and self-fabric bow. B: Tucks. C, D: Stitched pleats. D: Self bow.
Pattern Sizing:
Sizing is similar to other Butterick patterns I have made.There is a bit more room in the bodice and shoulders than indicated by the measurements. I sewed a small through the bust and shoulders, and medium through the rest. There is more than enough room for me in this top 
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
No, I used a cotton knit as these are pajamas, not a woven top.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes. They are clear, and contain reminders to trim etc. The only sticky place is the construction of the casing. I think the directions are awful here. More on this below in the alterations section.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I was looking for a top in order to make easy wear pajamas. I wanted something warm but loose, with a little femininity.3/4 view PJ patterns rarely offer this combination. We have a choice of gowns, babydolls, or feminized versions of men's pjs. Or sweats, yoga pants or tees.
I like the bodice, the pleats in front and back, the elastic empire waist, and the full skirt below. I didn't like the skirt portion as drafted so I added a flare to it by cutting at an angle, adding up to 1" by the time I cut to the hem. pleats
Fabric Used:
I used a cotton knit from JA, which is so awful and cheap I think it will only last through this winter. I am learning to PLAN ahead so I can use good knits on everything I sew! The pattern calls for "Lightweight Broadcloth, Crepe de Chine, Faille, Stable Knits, Chambray. D: Border Prints."
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
Increased the flare on the skirt, and ran the elastic under the overlap as follows:
The directions have you attach the skirt to the bodice and then trim the SA on the bodice. You are directed to use the skirt SA to make a casing with the edge turned under 1/4". This would result in manipulating 3/8" of gathered fabric (probably 2/8" in places) into a casing, and then sewing it down, shaving even more off. Then thread the elastic and safety pin through. I thought this was a little too fiddley for my fingers and did not turn under the SA in order to have 5/8" to work with. I used a knit so didn't need a hem.
***When I make this again, I'll add 1/2" at the top of the skirt for a casing***
The directions also have you sew the casing across the overlap on the bodice. I thought this looked bad, and added bulkiness. I bypassed it when sewing the casing so my stitching goes underneath the overlap and reappears on the other side. casing reappears
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, it makes a cute top for pjs. I wouldn't wear this as a regular top but will make another jammie set. back view I also NEED to make it again as I know the JA cotton knit will not last and I'd love to have this in a beautiful knit from an online vendor (much of which I have in my stash).
Conclusion:
Cute top, lots of room for creativity in fabric and embellishment. Comfortable to wear as jammies and probably a nice maternity top. | Buy this pattern for $13.46 List Price: $17.95 Add to Bag  |
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10 Comments
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Great idea for pj's. Thanks for sharing.
11/29/12 11:40 AM
What really cute PJs!
11/29/12 5:01 PM
Great looking PJs
11/29/12 6:47 PM
Very cute adaptation! Feminine and lounge-worthy. Is the elastic comfortable for sleeping? I've often thought of sewing some sort of shelf bra into my PJ's, but this might be easier if it stays put. :)
11/29/12 7:58 PM
hazelnut, yes. I wore them last night and was very comfortable. I am a 36B, if that info helps. The elastic is loose enough to not feel stretched.
11/29/12 9:09 PM
Cute and comfy looking! Great idea to use for jammies.
11/29/12 10:47 PM
Good idea to extend the patterns to PJs. (I see Mr. Pup taking a snooze back there.)
11/29/12 11:45 PM
great pj's
11/30/12 2:56 AM
Lovely pjs. Great use of this top. Adding to the skirt top for the casing is a great idea!
11/30/12 3:50 AM
Nice idea -- great looking PJs!
11/30/12 11:40 AM