Newlook 6859 - Pattern Review

This is my go to pattern for PJ pants.  I've used it many times, and I never get bored.

I made these two for my son for Christmas.  I made the large and he typicallys wears an XL.

I found the bird fabric at Joann's and thought it would make perfect PJ's.  The green cotton I had in my stash.


I used 1" wide elastic for this pattern rather than the called for 1/2".  1/2" is just too small for grown ups in my opinion.  I didn't adjust the pattern to accommodate the size increase, since most of the recipients like the pants to sit lower anyway.  I serged the top edge and folded it over 1 1/4".  I also ran a length of twill tape through the button openings rather than a faux ribbon.  I wasn't sure about the exact waist measurement, so I erred on the large side knowing they could cinch them with the twill tape to make them smaller.  You can just see the twill tape here.

This pattern is unisex, so it works for women too.  I made this pair for my husband's Aunt. I made the extra small in these.

This time I used some ribbon I had on hand rather than twill tape running it along the inside with the elastic - same as before.  I used 1" elastic on this pair too.

I added lace to the bottom of the legs.  I wanted these very feminine.

Pattern Description: Misses' Men's & Teens' Separates

Pattern Sizing: XS - XL - I made a Large.  This pattern runs Large! 

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes; although I used my own order of construction.
1. Stitch the button holes.
2. Stitch the inner leg seams.
3. Stitch the pockets. This will differ slightly depending on which pocket you choose.
4. Serge the pant leg and turn up the hem and press.  This aids in stitching the hem later.
5. Stitch the side seams.
6. Stitch the pant leg hems.
7. Serge each top edge of the pants.  And turn down the 1 1/4" allowance for the casing and press.  This aids in that turn down later.
8. Stitch the crotch seam by putting one pant leg inside the other.
9. Stitch the top casing.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love that this is a versatile pattern for both men and women.

Fabric Used: cotton 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  I used 1" elastic rather than the 1/2" the pattern called for.  1/2" is just too small for adults in my opinion.  I also ran twill tape and ribbon along side the elastic to account for variation in waist size. 

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, I think it's a great pattern.

Conclusion: This is one of my favorite patterns.  I've used it many times and will continue to use it.


Please feel free to leave comments or ask questions.  I welcome your feedback.

Thanks for stopping by!
Angela