I always like to make a new set of pyjamas at this time of year – having new PJs in time for Chinese New Year is just one tradition I can’t seem to shake!

So when Nina sent out a new pyjama pattern to test in the weeks leading up to the lunar new year, it seemed like fate!

The Piccadilly Pyjamas are an adorable two piece pyjama set of a shirt and bottoms with options for 3/4 length or short sleeves and either shorts or 3/4 length pants. It has a little mandarin collar and cute little patch pockets on the shirt. The hems of the shirt and pants are curved at the sides and the edges are finished with bias binding – a great opportunity to do some contrasting detailing!

I don’t do many bound hems so I was eager to try them out!

I used a piece of patterned green cotton lawn I’ve had for 3 or 4 years that I just hadn’t found a chance to use before. I bought it in Paris from a coupons shop where I tend to go a bit overboard with my purchases! I didn’t have anything in mind for it when I bought it and when I came home I found I wasn’t so keen on the colour though I still liked the lace effect print on it. It’s a good thing I saved it though, as it was the only piece in my stash that I think would’ve worked for this pattern!

I think I’m doing a pretty good job of sewing up my stash so far this year!

The pyjamas are pretty straightforward to sew up. The bias binding gets attached to everything first before sewing the side seams which means no worrying about hemming afterwards! The binding on the curved pockets is a little trickier but with a bit of time and patience I don’t think it would be a real hurdle for anyone.

I used a shop bought lilac/pink binding to contrast the green of the fabric. It helps to emphasise the details of the curved hems and pockets! For the buttons I used these silver knot shank buttons I’ve also had for absolutely ages. I’m all about stash busting at the mo!

Here are some photos of how mine turned out!

(Bear in mind, I placed the buttons where it suited my body as opposed to following the instructions. Also this pattern has been altered slightly since testing meaning the final version is slightly different particularly around the shoulders).

I look ready for bed right? 😂

I love the look of these PJs. They’ve got a little oriental vibe going on so perfect for my new year pyjamas!!

I think it’s a great pattern to try out new skills like attaching bias binding, setting in sleeves, putting in collars without the pressure of worrying how it’s going to look at the end because at the end of the day this will likely be a well loved item that will stay indoors!