This week, I started on the nightgown for my Princess and the Pea diorama. Although I’m getting ideas from historical costumers on how a Renaissance chemise is constructed, I have to develop the miniature pattern myself. Fortunately, I decided to test it with an old bed sheet before cutting into the handkerchiefs I’ve collected, and am I glad I did.

My first take at this garment had unexpected results, giving me the most excited nightgown you’ve ever seen.
I clearly have the angle where the sleeve meets the body wrong. I’ll keep adjusting the pattern and making mock-ups until I like the results. Any guesses how many tries it will take?



Draw the nightgown one dimensional. Draw a repeat. Sew the sides and sleeves. Leave the hem and neck open. Finish neck by simple turn and stitch or face. I suggest roll and hem by hand. You can add lace, Rick Rack with a facing. Hem bottom. Inset sleeves aren’t necessary in a nightgown. I made dolls when I was let’s say many many years ago.
I meant draw the pattern then sew the two pieces together. Copy paper, freezer paper, etc.
Blame it on brain fog. 100 ° temp today. 2nd round of Covid since August. Not sure ever got rid of the first round.
Oy. COVID sucks!!! I haven’t tried the freezer paper thing but I will. That could help a lot… as will adjusting the pattern.