One of my favorite things to do when creating a garment is experimenting with fabrics. Getting to know a fabric is much like understanding technology... you figure out what works for a design and what doesn't.

I especially love to take on the challenge of making a garment out of a fabric that isn't recommended. And again, sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't! I have lost a lot of fabric to the cause...

I'm happy to report about a case in which it did work in my favor!

Meet the Evelyn Romper by Oh Lu Lu and the Summer Kimono from Patterns for Pirates. I don't typically wear cute pajamas to bed... I'm more of a t-shirt-and-flannel-pants kind of gal, but some sweet fellow sewists talked me into it.


This patten is drafted for woven fabrics, which are cut on the bias. However, I used my favorite rayon spandex and cut with the grain. When patterns call for fabric to be cut on the bias, they are capitalizing on the amount of stretch that is inherently part of the weaving process.

Because my fabric already had 4-way stretch, I didn't want to add additional stretch and risk the garment bagging out on me. I assumed that cutting with the grain would prevent excessive stretch and allow for the right amount of feminine flutter that makes this romper so pretty.

Instead of making trim, as the pattern outlines, I chose to use some gorgeous 2 1/2" stretch lace trim. It coordinated with the navy rayon spandex perfectly! I folded it over the raw edge and attached with a zig-zag stitch along the scalloped border and the folded edge.


My plan was to add a couple of extra inches to the length with some additional lace around the legs, but, sadly, I didn't have enough on hand!

So, it's very short. Very short.

But I have to say... rayon spandex is a perfect fabric for this garment! It's incredibly soft and very easy to work with. Sleepwear made from this amazing fabric will always be great choice.


All in all, the Evelyn Romper came together without an issue! I would highly recommend this pattern to anyone interested in sewing sleepwear or lingerie.

So, so dreamy...

I also worked up a Summer Kimono, using a heathered rayon spandex and stretch lace, during the recent Phee Fabrics Sew-a-Long. Whitney did an amazing job of walking us through the construction process!


I didn't realize how badly I needed a simple, pretty robe in my life until I put this one on. I've hardly taken it off since.



The Summer Kimono can also be layered over daily wear, too! It's definitely not meant to be hidden at home! Be sure to check out the Sew-a-Long resources and work up one of your own.

I challenge you to experiment with your fabrics, too! You might be surprised to find what works in an unexpected way.