Pattern Review - Butterick 3318 Gown

It's that time of year where I start stitching up warm PJs for my bunch. Two of my girls really like to wear gowns, so I decided I'd make them a few. I had so much fun with these that I actually got a bit carried away! :)

I've used the Gown Pattern E from Butterick 3318 with a few small modifications and the result is the perfect gown for my Lil' Bit!

She is currently head over heels for Toy Story, and I just happened across some remaining flannel with good friends Buzz & Woody printed on it, from some PJs I made my boys. If you follow on facebook, you probably remember seeing me share this one already. This is her absolute FAVORITE!!! And she even got a matching pillowcase making for 1 very happy little girl! 

The pattern calls for velcro at the shoulder seams. Velcro can be kind of scratchy, something we certainly don't want, especially for bedtime clothing....so....I made some adjustments. I sewed the shoulder seams and then cut a slit in the center back of the gown about 5-6" in length. Folded the raw edges in 1/4" and ironed, then again, and stitched in place making for a nice finished seam. I added a snap for the closure. The gown is still easy to get on and off without any concern of velcro irritation.

 The gowns were all trimmed around the collar and hemline with either Extra-Wide Double Fold Bias Tape or a plush Fold-Over Elastic in coordinating colors.

Here are a couple of other flannel prints....Big Sissy has matching gowns for these I'll share soon. 

 And last but not least, this one made from a super soft and cozy Hello Kitty microfleece and trimmed with the sweetest "Princess Crown" print Fold-Over Elastic and finished with a Night Owl's Menagerie label. 

SUMMARY

Sewing Experience Level: Confident Beginner

Size Range: 2-5 Years

Special Techniques: Attaching sleeves and bias trim.

Pattern Format: Paper

Materials Used: Flannel, Fleece, Bias Tape, Fold-Over Elastic, Snaps.

Personal Notes: With the modifications listed, this is now one of my favorite PJ patterns to sew! It fits great and my Lil' Bit loves wearing each of the ones I've made her. I'm sure to use it again when she sizes up.