Have you thought about sewing your own bra or chemise? Sewing lingerie and nightwear can be really satisfying. It’s a great way to use up fabric scraps and learn a new craft. It can seem challenging sewing with small pattern pieces and getting familiar with all the notions needed but we have some beginner patterns you can start with before moving onto more complex designs.
Whether you want to learn some new sewing skills and whip up a bra and pants set or snuggle up in some cosy pyjamas, we’ve got it covered. We’ve brought together a list of our top 15 lingerie and nightwear sewing patterns plus essential tips for sewing lingerie. Pyjamas can make great gifts too for friends and family, so we’ve included a few patterns for these as well.
Top tips for sewing lingerie
- Use the right pins. If you plan to sew in silk make sure you get silk pins to avoid little holes being left in your fabric.
- When adding elastic to the legs of your pants, measure the top of your leg and take off 5cm, this will be the length you need to cut your elastic so it will be a comfortable fit.
- When pressing a bra you might want to invest in a tailors ham or even make yourself a small bean bag as this will help you to press on a curve.
- Check your seam allowances. Unlike dressmaking patterns the seam allowances vary between lingerie patterns and can be anywhere from 1.5cm-1.8cm. Although this sounds like a small variation it can make a big difference to the finished piece.
- Adding a lace trim to the bottom if a bra is a lovely simple detail – make sure you use a lightweight lace because if it’s too heavy it can distort the bra because the fabric is cut on the bias.
Show me the patterns
// The stash busters //
It’s always tricky to know what to do with scraps of fabric, particular when they are of beautiful prints. Scrap busters are the perfect patterns, which only need small pieces of fabric. You can make a whole drawer of new pants to use up all your fabric scraps. Eye masks also make great gifts and are the perfect pattern for a sewing party!
Nixie Briefs – Jennifer Lauren Handmade
Our top pick to use up scraps of fabric in your stash are the Nixie Briefs from Jennifer Lauren Handmade.
The Nixie Briefs are a step above your standard underwear fare – with a higher rise at the back and full bum coverage, they’re your new everyday knickers with a fun twist. Choose from a hipster or high-waisted brief, then get adventurous with those knit fabric scraps, mixing and matching to your heart’s content. They also make lovely gifts or are the ideal pattern for a sewing party.
Sizing: approx. UK 6-24 // Available in the shop? Yes, as a digital PDF pattern or get the copy shop version printed and posted to you.
Want to see it on some real people? Check it out on Instagram here.
Trixie Briefs – Jennifer Lauren Handmade
If you like the look of the Nixie Briefs, then the Trixie Briefs are also worth a try. They have a higher rise at the back and full bum coverage for ultimate everyday comfort, all while being a quick and satisfying make. With classic or panelled options, you can make Trixie in your choice of a modern hipster brief or a 50s-inspired true high-waisted style (sitting above your belly button, at your natural waist). In total there are eight variations in this pattern.
Sizing: approx. UK 6-24 // Available in the shop? Yes, as a digital PDF pattern or get the copy shop version printed and posted to you.
Sleep Mask – Helen’s Closet
For the ultimate scrap busting pattern try the free Sleep Mask pattern from Helen’s Closet. Helen has posted a tutorial on her blog with a downloadable template and step-by-step instructions. These would make great gifts for friends and you only need a small piece of fabric.
// The Ultimate Pyjamas //
Is there anything better than getting cosy in your favourite pair of pyjamas? Whether it’s a cold Winter night or a holiday away, there is a pyjama sewing pattern for all occasions! We have shared our favourites below from simple camisole and short sets to traditional pyjama designs with lapel collars and decorative piping. Whatever your sewing level, there is a pyjama project for you. Plus they make the best thoughtful gift for friends and family. Choose brushed cotton fabric for the ultimate comfort or rayon/silk for a luxurious pair.
Night Garden PJ Set – Sew To Grow
Get a restful night’s sleep in the Night Garden PJ Set. The wide-leg pants feature a satin ribbon tie, pockets, and a contrast cuff. Make them on their own or pair them with the simple adjustable-strap camisole. This PJ set would sew up beautifully in a quilting weight cotton, or make it in rayon for a completely luxurious feel!
Sizing: XS – 4XL (approx. UK 8 – 26). // Available in the shop? Yes, as a digital PDF pattern or paper pattern.
Cozy PJs – Laela Jeyne Patterns
This classic pyjama pattern features sleep shirt or top options, short or long sleeves, bottoms in shorts or pants length or optional piping for a high quality finish.
Sizing: XXS – 4X (approx. UK 6 – 28). // Available in the shop? Yes, as a digital PDF pattern or get the copy shop version printed and posted to you.
Reef camisole and shorts set – Megan Nielsen
Reef has a relaxed fit, ideal for sleep or casual wear. The camisole features a bias cut, v neckline and crossover yoke in the back. The shorts feature an elastic waist, pockets, curved hemline and two rises. Version 1 is a camisole with crossover yoke. Version 2 is shorts with pockets and a curved hemline and sits below the natural waist. Version 3 is shorts with a straight hemline and sits on the natural hip.
Sizing: XS – XL (approx. UK 8 – 16). // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper pattern.
Carolyn pyjamas – Closet Case Patterns
Designed for chic lounging, the Carolyn Pyjamas are thoughtfully tailored with a modern, figure flattering cut. The Carolyn top features a classic notched collar, curved hem and breast pocket with three sleeve options. For a matching set, choose between a straight legged pant (with or without cuff) or a cuffed short. Both pants and shorts feature an elasticised waist, pockets and a faux fly. This is definitely one for the more experienced maker.
Sizing: 0 – 20 (approx. UK 6 – 20). // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper pattern.
Piccadilly Pyjamas – Nina Lee Patterns
The Piccadilly Pyjamas are a chic sleepwear set with oriental accents – a soft and open mandarin collar and gently curving hems. Version 1 consists of shorts and a cap-sleeved shirt; Version 2 of cropped trousers and a shirt with three-quarter length sleeves. The pyjama bottoms have a flat-front waistband with an elasticated back, finishing with a ribbon tie. Comfortable yet elegant, these pyjamas are the perfect loungewear! This is definitely one for the more experienced maker.
Sizing: UK 6 – 20. // Available in the shop? Yes, as a digital PDF or paper pattern.
// Best of the bras //
Bras are certainly the most tricky of the lingerie patterns to sew. You’ll need specific fabric and specialist notions but there are plenty of online sewing haberdashery shops that sell these supplies and some as kits. Sewing up a bra is a great project to get stuck into and we share our favourite patterns below, all with different styles.
Soft Cup Bras and Panties S8228 – Madalynne
The S8228 Soft Cup Bras and Panties sewing pattern from Madalynne is a collaboration with Simplicity Patterns. It’s perfect for an advanced beginner/intermediate dressmaker. These soft cup bralettes and panties are great for lovers of lace. The halter bralette has a plunge neckline, scalloped lace edges and a double hook and eye closure at the back. It has channelling at the cup seam, which adds some support, but no underwires. The racerback bralette has a sweetheart neckline with scallop lace edges throughout. The panties are high-waisted with lace side panels.
Sizing: Bras: 32A – 42DD // Panties: XS – XL (approx. UK 6 – 20). // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper pattern.
Cosmos bralette – Afternoon Patterns
The Cosmos bralette sewing pattern by Afternoon Patterns is a soft, romantic bralette designed for light, everyday support. With gently shaped cups, adjustable straps and a soft underbust elastic, it’s both easy to wear and easy to sew. If you’ve ever wanted to make your own bra, but weren’t sure where to start, this is the sewing pattern for you.
Sizing: Size A: Full bust 83–87 cm (32 5/8–34 1/4″), Size B: Full bust 88–92 cm (34 5/8–36 1/4″), Size C: Full bust 93–97 cm (36 5/8–38 1/8″), Size D: Full bust 98–102 cm (38 1/2–40 1/8″), Size E: Full bust 103–107 cm (40 1/2″–42 1/8″) and Size F: Full bust 108–112 cm (42 1/2″–44 1/8″). // Available in the shop? Yes, as a digital PDF pattern.
Underwire bra and panties S8229 – Madalynne
The S8229 Underwire Bra and Panties sewing pattern from Madalynne is a collaboration with Simplicity Patterns. It’s perfect for an advanced beginner/intermediate dressmaker. The underwire bra has scalloped lace edges on the upper cups, a hook and eye closure at the back and adjustable straps. It provides moderate coverage and support. The panties have a high-waisted silhouette.
Sizing: Bra: 32A – 42DD // Panties: XS – XL (approx. UK 6 – 20). // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper pattern.
Monowire bra and panties S8711 – Madalynne
The S8711 Monowire Bra and Panties sewing pattern from Madalynne in collaboration with Simplicity Patterns. It’s perfect for an advanced beginner/intermediate dressmaker. The underwire bralette has an interior frame, called a floating bridge, that holds a continuous monowire for support. The monowire combined with bust darts creates a bralette that gives shape and doesn’t flatten. The bralette also has a hook and eye closure at centre back, adjustable elastic shoulder straps and a small ruffle at the bottom. The panties are low rise with three tiered flounces on the back.
Sizing: Bra: Bra: 32A – 42DD // Panties: XS – XL (approx. UK 6 – 20). // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper pattern.
// Nightwear and dressing gowns //
No. 20 New York Nightgown, camisole and chemise – How to do Fashion
The No. 20 New York Nightgown, Camisole and Chemise sewing pattern from How to Do Fashion features gathers at the bust and a low-cut back. The bottom is cut on the bias. Version 1 is a long nightgown with broad straps. Version 2 is a camisole with broad straps. Version 3 is a chemise with narrow bias cut straps. This pattern can also be worn as a dress or top depending on fabric choice and styling.
Sizing: EU 34 – 50 (approx. UK 6/8 – 22/24). // Available in the shop? Yes, as a digital PDF or paper pattern.
Vogue® Patterns nightwear V8888
The V8888 nightwear sewing pattern from Vogue® Patterns. It’s perfect for an advanced beginner/intermediate dressmaker. The loose-fitting wrap robe has shawl collar, bias inside ties, back tucks with tie ends, side pockets and bias loops. Version A: Sleeve bands. The close-fitting bias camisole or slip has shoulder straps, seamed (lined C, D) bodice, front yokes and elasticated upper back. All have bias binding, armhole E extends into shoulder straps. The semi-fitted bias panties (below waist) have an elastic waist.
Sizing: A5 (6-8-10-12-14), EE (14-16-18-20), approx. UK sizes A5 (4/6 – 10), EE (10 – 16). // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper pattern.
Men’s and Women’s Lahja dressing gown – Named Clothing
The Lahja Dressing Gown sewing pattern from Named is a casual, straight-cut dressing gown with a wide collar, wide belt and patch pockets. The pattern includes both the women’s and men’s versions! The women’s version finishes above the knee and has cropped sleeves. The men’s version is calf length and has long sleeves.
Sizing: Women’s version: XS – XL (approx. UK 4/6 – 22) // Men’s version: XXS – L/XL. // Available in the shop? Yes, as a digital PDF pattern or get the copy shop version printed and posted to you.
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