Two makes in one: relaxed elastic-waist PJ shorts and pants with optional pockets, in sizes 8–22. A great beginner project.

The Helen PJ Shorts & Pants are the perfect beginner sewing project. Designed with comfort and simplicity in mind, they’re a great introduction to garment sewing while still teaching useful techniques you’ll use again and again. With an easy elastic waistband, simple construction, and a relaxed fit, this pattern is approachable for confident beginners and satisfying for more experienced sewists too. And don’t keep them just for the bedroom. Make them in a linen or a printed cotton and they’re absolutely worthy of being worn out and about. What’s included -Shorts and pants in one pattern, sizes 8–22 -Optional pockets, with two methods to choose from: one easier, one more polished -Illustrated step-by-step instructions with a size chart, fabric requirements and cutting layouts -A0 pattern file to print at a copy shop, so there’s no taping A4 pages together Materials -1.5m of 25mm wide elastic -Thread (Gütermann and Rasant are our favourites) -Light cotton, cotton lawn, cotton linen, linen or quilting cotton. Anything you’d be happy to sleep in. Not suitable for stretchy fabric. Fabric requirements for 115cm and 150cm wide fabric are listed per size in the pattern. You’ll learn -reading a sewing pattern -cutting fabric accurately -sewing seams -pressing as you sew -creating an elastic waistband -inserting pockets (optional) -hemming a garment