Sunday Catch Up | Tamarama Set - Cute Set or Pretty Pyjamas?

[@velvetvert9431]

I have seen actual pajamas on the streets in both Toronto and Paris. I think you're fine.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Ha, I love this comment! Thank you. 💕

[@gingerninja_sews]

What a lovely set and great pattern matching on the collar 😊

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you so much! I hadn't even noticed the pattern matching on the collar - a complete happy accident! 😄

[@TheFrenchSeams_vlog]

Wow that shawl is going to be gorgoeus!!!!

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thanks Rachael! I am excited about it - it is sooo fun to knit so far. A definite case of "just one more row" on this one - it's very hard to put down!

[@karengear5254]

Love them. Skirt and shirt look really good. I also like tank and shirt open. ❤❤

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you Karen! 💕

[@evoltuionofself]

It's a delightful set, summery and breezy, like swanky resort wear. It looks gorgeous on you. The shirt undone over a linen dress might work or even a tighter fitting teeshirt dress. I need to thank you for introducing me to the Chanterelle pants. Today is my very first day wearing my pair (perfect timing you putting out a video today.) Mine are made in a hemp cotton blend in undyed natural colour - super dooper comfortable and I love them. I've got a dark blue linen pair and a ditzy floral pair coming up next. I'm actually making them in sets too, using Sewing Therapy Faux Collar button down shirt in the boxy fit. It's my mix and match 3 sets for upcoming travel adventures. 🙂

[@lindasutton937]

Sarah you might be able to put elastic in the sleeve to make it a puff sleeve to stop the gaping.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thanks Linda! Yes, it gapes quite a lot. I wore it last Sunday and got it caught on door handles around my house so many times! 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@SoSarahSewed]

Oh I am so glad you love the Chanterelles too! I have my hot pink ones in progress today! Yours all sound lovely and those sets sound perfect for travel! I'll have to look up that shirt pattern.

[@MrsMelvinZ]

Sarah you pick beautiful fabrics. That being said, yes, to me that is a pretty pajama set. I would say use the shorts as pajamas and pair the top with other items. It looked great with the green skirt!!

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you! I think that's probably the most likely outcome for the two items, unless I end up cutting up the shirt and turning it into something less oversized! I will keep thinking about it. 😊

[@ashersorfleet4004]

I am so happy that you have made the chanterelle shorts. They are on my list of projects this year. They look great😊 I'm planning a cropped woven top to pair with them and my bright yellow chanterelle view B pants. I can't wait to see the pink set and the ikat shorts. I made some Navy & White ikat saphia cullotes by Tilly, and the buttons last summer. The ikat fabrics are so lovely. I have some Indian block prints to use this year as well.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you! The shorts are so comfy and I love their shape so much - 38 degrees forecast here today so I've got them on! The bright yellow chanterelle pants sound great - I'm trying to get my pink set finished today! I am excited to move on to the ikat shorts in the next couple of weeks too!

[@ashersorfleet4004]

@SoSarahSewed Here in the UK, it is cold and wet at the moment. Roll on summer ☀️ I've ordered some khaki green linen for another pair of Chanterelle. I might make the shorts from 3 different coloured bits of linen from other projects 😄 I will be looking out for your next makes. Thank you.

[@debsmadethis]

Chanterelles are one of my faves, just made the shorts in French Terry as toile for joggers! Your pink set is going to be stunning! I can see what you mean about the proportions of the shirt on your set but I think it's lovely and you ll find a way to enjoy styling it ! Stunning knitting 😊

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thanks Debs! I have a whole lot of terry towelling jacquard fabric that I used to make my sister her Christmas gift t-shirt and I am planning to make matching shorts using the Chanterelle pattern now. I was going to use the Tamarack shorts pattern but I think the Chanterelles will be perfect! I hope you love your Chanterelle joggers - I love mine soooo much.

[@debsmadethis]

@SoSarahSewed Ooo those sound fab!

[@chelseatucker8638]

That pink yarn in the shawl made my eyes pop - it's so pretty! I was looking for a pair of shorts to make - I hadn't considered the Chanterelle shorts.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you - I can't wait to get more into the pinks in the shawl design! I'm still working on the lightest colour at the moment and am itching to start the next pink! I highly recommend the Chanterelle shorts - they're a great design and so comfy!

[@barbarawarner4645]

Looking forward to the pink linen makes.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you Barbara - the pink items are coming along well! I am excited to wear them!

[@WhatDebbieMakes]

I love the black shorts!

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thanks Debbie, I love them too!

[@SunShine-000]

Adorable set! To get used to wearing it out and about, I think a colorful singlet is perfect. Or possibly try tying up the ends of the shirt (knotted?) and with it buttoned all the way up would be stylish, too! The fabric is just stunning and too lovely to wear only at home, imho 😂. You get so much done! Beautiful work! ❤❤❤ Suzanne

[@SunShine-000]

Wrote this comment before seeing the gorgeous pink set that is coming soon! Now that is inspiring and has me thinking about making a similar set for summer, too! 😊

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you Suzanne! Yes, I agree that the fabric is too pretty to not be worn and seen by more people! Yep, the pink set is nearly finished... hopefully I'll get it done today! 38 degrees here today 🥵 so we are currently just home and trying to stay cool inside!

[@annettecowburn-sz8cq]

It's lovely to see you Sarah. I think all your makes are beautiful. I think you are worrying unnecessarily about the set, you've made. I'm sure you will find a way of styling it in a way you feel comfortable with. Love the shorts and the shawl will be stunning. Have a great week.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you Annette! That is lovely feedback. 💕

[@ChristineSewsALot]

The fabric is gorgeous!

[@SoSarahSewed]

Isn't it soooo pretty!? I really wanted to make something I love wearing... I'm not sure I've done that so I might re-think it.

[@janevellenderartist]

Lovely makes and fabrics. I can fully understand you reservations about the set. It does look wonderful tucked into the green skirt.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thanks Jane! I think adding the darker green skirt helped to balance out all those pastel colours! It is such a pretty fabric so I'd love to be able to wear it!

[@robynlaszlo6128]

Very nice makes your set is very pretty you can always separate it can't wait to make up the chanterlle pants have a great week 😊😊

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you Robyn, I love the idea of a matching set, but I'm just not sure about this one! I hope you love making the Chanterelles too!

[@nicolegooding7724]

Sarah, this morning, I wondered whether I had missed a video from you, and low and behold, there you were. I enjoy your videos, mostly because of how you share your process. However, as a Melbournian who moved away long ago, you connect me to "home." I appreciate your thoughtfulness and candor about your experience with a pattern or vendor. As for the set, since you asked, I think they look like PJs. The shirt could work for a day out with other items in your handmade wardrobe. The shorts look like they'd work well with a T-shirt or singlet for bed.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thanks Nicole! Thank you for your lovely feedback. Wearing the shorts as PJs is a good idea. I just simply don't like the shape enough to wear them "out". And I think I'll probably end up cutting up the shirt and turning it into something else. I'll have a good think about it as I really love the fabric and would love to wear it proudly!

[@brigittedossor8167]

Those black shorts are beautifully sewn 😊

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you Brigitte! I'm happy I took the time to do the French seams as I know they'll get lots of wear and now should be extra durable!

[@karolmolpus9536]

Going to be a gorgeous shawl ❤❤❤

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you - I am absolutely loving knitting it up!

[@karolmolpus9536]

If you wear cute sandals you can make it an upstyled cool summer set!❤

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thanks Karol - yes, I think shoe choice will make a really big difference with the way the set is interpreted!

[@gorgo1945]

Hi Sarah, The fabric of the shirt and short set is very sweet but, in my opinion, the set does look like PJs, gorgeous ones:-) but yes, PJs BUT if you wear them seperately it works well ie the green skirt and top especially. I agree with you however that the size of the shirt is far too large for your frame and it swamps you. You have a petit figure and Im afraid this size doesnt do you justice, way too big. The shawl, just divine!!!!!! The cardigan will be gorgeous when fiinished and definitely worth the the work involved, very, very pretty. Black shorts, very nice on you, glad you used this pattern again, suits you well. Love your channel, thank you for all your postings. xx

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thanks for your feedback! Yeah, I think it's just too big unfortunately! I think I will be re-fashioning it in some way, most likely! 🥰

[@carolbibby3089]

Sarah, I love to watch your channel, and the patterns you choose to make. Your love of the Chanterelle pants, will be the reason I'll give pants sewing a go. They don't seem to bunch up at the back, like most of the other pants patterns do. You've mentioned shortening them, but what about the rise and crotch depth? And I can't wait to see the pink set! 😊

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you Carol. The back of the Chanterelles is definitely one of my favourite things about the design - exactly what you said - none of that excess fabric that is so apparent in so many other elasticised pants patterns! I didn't change the rise or crotch depth in any of mine - just shortened the length at the line marked on the pattern. I think I have quite a long torso (proportionately!) and I have found the original rise to sit very comfortably on me!

[@libbybennett3067]

Hi Sarah You have made your Tarmara set in some beautiful fabric. Your shirt would look lovely open with your new black shorts and a singlet. I think l would wear them as separates or pj's. I went to Tessuti fabrics this month, my first time, and I also purchased some washed linen. Their fabric is just beautiful and the staff are so lovely and helpful. Can't wait to see your cardigan finished. 🌺🌺🌻

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you Libby! Oh isn't Tessuti beautiful!? I had such a hard time choosing my fabric. I keep thinking about some Merchant and Mills checkered linen I didn't buy... maybe another time! 😄. The pink linen I bought is so beautiful to the touch - I am excited to get my new set finished and to wear it! Looks like we will still have lots of hot weather ahead to have plenty of opportunities to wear it, too. 😀

[@nancyhilborn885]

As usual, I love all your makes. The nice thing about a very simple pattern, it allows the printed fabric to sing. I think your short set is lovely. The fabric is the feature. I liked all the ways you styled those pieces and I do think you could wear both pieces as separates. You could try wearing a belt over the elasticated waist of the shorts to see if you feel less pajama like in them. I have a woven leather belt that is infinitely adjustable 😊. I got it secondhand and am surprised how practical it is for pulling an outfit together or elevating a basic. If you get your hands on a remnant solid in one of the colours from the pattern, you could make a simple sash belt that would also elevate the shorts. I like the oversized shirt but if the gaping underarm is a barrier to wearing it, I'd try pinning in the side seam up through the underarm and sleeve and see if you prefer downsizing it a bit. I have a pattern from the 80's that is basically this outfit 😂 plus the Ashton top. Your break sounds wonderful. We've been dealing with -20c here. No short sets in my near future 😂. I could make some corduroy chanterelle though.... hmmm

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you Nancy! A belt is a good idea - I should try styling the pieces a few different ways. I haven't put it on again since last weekend. I wore the shirt all day and I got the sleeve caught on door handles at least 5 times which really annoyed me, so I can't see me leaving it as it is! It might end up being cut up and re-fashioned for SewFrugal in March. We will see!

[@ColleenCotoni-]

Love your short set. If you put the drawstring on and tied the two front pieces of the top, it would look nice. You could even wear a coordinating tank top underneath the top.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you Colleen! Yes, I have seen some people tie the top and I quite like the effect! I should give that a go before I make my final decision on its destiny! 😄

[@SeamsLikeAGoodIdea]

If the Chanterelle shorts were a man, you would marry him! LOL. They are easygoing, practical, up for anything and sexy. You look great in them! One day you will finish the Whitmore cardigan and be glad. But I giggled when you said you brought it with you to the beach house because I knew it wasn't finished yet. The best part of the video is when you talked about the singing with the choir. Learning new music is sometimes hard but singing it is nothing but joy! ❤💚

[@SoSarahSewed]

Hahaha! Yes, my ever-reliable Chanterelles! 😂 I am making slow but steady progress on the cardigan, don't worry! 😉. But I realised I need another set of needles to do the next step, so that has slowed me down a little bit. Lucky I have my new exciting knitting project to do instead. 🤪 😂

[@dbdesignsandsewingaustrali5668]

Hi Sarah, your set is lovely, I think the look is very beachy, not sure I could wear them in public except over bathers to the beach or pool. Love the black shorts, they look fabulous, I have that pattern so I will be making the pants and possibly some shorts that are a bit longer than the pattern as I’m in my 60’s, so my legs are not lovely like yours, hav3 a great sewing week, Deb

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thanks Deb. I guess it's all about attitude with the set - I think if I liked the shape of the shorts more I'd be more inclined to give wearing them together a go... for now I think they're more likely to be chopped up into something new! I do love the fabric so much though!

[@kazuritribe]

Whenever I use double pointed needles I get quite paranoid. So I shove needle stoppers on the end of all of them. May slow me down, but it is worth it!

[@SoSarahSewed]

They are stressful aren't they!? I probably need to get some smaller stoppers - I tried using the ones I had and they just got in the way, unfortunately. I can't wait to be finished with the bodice! 😂

[@nerissajordan5092]

Hi Sarah! Have you tried putting point protectors on your DPNs? They also work to stop stitches slipping off, and that might help it be more relaxing to knit your cardigan. Lots of shops sell them

[@SoSarahSewed]

Hi Nerissa, thank you for your comment! I had the same thought and actually tried putting some on that I had but they made it all a bit cumbersome at the start of each row. Mine might be a bit chunky! 😂

[@TheseMamaHands]

Love the matchy set, but it is reading a little pajamaish. I wonder if you made the top into a tank if it would balance the collar issue?? It's a beautiful make, but I agree that the sleeves are a little revealing. LOVE those Chantelle shorts! I need to make some for next summer. Thanks Sarah for all you do.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you! Yes, the way the sleeves are set in was very strange to me - surprisingly low and gapey! I think that I'm probably leaning towards a re-fashion in some way... I do like a collared sleeveless shirt, so will keep that idea in mind!

[@knottygnome]

if you are uncomfortable wearing the set out there's nothing wrong with having a set of luxurious loungewear or pjs. in fact, you might get more use out of them if you wear them as such! do you have addi flexiflip needles in australia? they are basically dpns but they have a short cord in the middle. you could put your buttonband stitches on the cord when you aren't working them so they would be less likely to slip off. just a suggestion.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Hi Sara, I have never heard of those needles - they sound great and definitely like they would have made this whole process easier! 😂 I am nearly at the end of the bodice now thank goodness and think that I will be very careful to avoid any patterns that use this technique ever again!

[@amyholman354]

You can embrace the contrast between the prim buttoned collar and the loose sleeves. I know what you mean with that difference, but on you it looks good, and fashion stylists will often change the character of clothes. I like all your stylings with the top, and the singlet beneath.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you Amy! I love the fabric so much - I'm glad you like the look of the buttons plus the loose sleeves - it's not something I'm used to, which is probably why I felt a bit weird in it!

[@jeanlinder1310]

That coordinating set would look good with the shirt tucked in, a 2" or so black belt, and a longer pearl necklace. Alternatively, wear a shiny camisole underneath the shirt with the shirt open, and do a French tuck into the shorts. Wear with sneakers and a big purse, and a hat.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Love the styling ideas, thank you!

[@lizann3058]

I love that fabric Sarah however, IMO the set does resemble pyjamas. I would wear the shirt with plain shorts or pants and the shorts with a t shirt as pyjamas. Sorry...you DID ask! 😆

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thanks Lizann! I have to say I feel the same way at this point - just too "pretty" or something... 😘

[@rosemarybravo5348]

Thank you for your videos love your channel. I think if your top was sized down you might like your set better. Do love it on you but understand your concerns. 👏

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you Rosemary. Yes, I think the size of it makes it feel a bit too "relaxed". I hope I can find a way to love it because I love the fabric design so much!

[@beachblu6953]

The tamarama set shirt works well with the skirt, shorts keep as Pj's, the small collar and wide sleeve is 90s style, the pink outfit is going to look beautiful I'm in a red phase and want a wide leg elasticised back waistband pants ie.safiya pants TATB

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you! Yes, I think the shirt and skirt combo was my favourite way to style the tamarama. Oooh, wide leg red pants sound beautiful! I have just washed up my red/maroon ikat fabric that I am considering making into the Chanterelle short!

[@sandraduden8198]

I don’t sew, so I don’t know how difficult this would be…but I believe the set would look less like pj’s if the shirt wasn’t so big. Of course, I am not a fan of the oversized look, so there is that lol. Fabric is beautiful.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you Sandra, I tend to agree! I probably should have gone down a size!

[@barbarawarner4645]

I’m not a fan of the oversized look but these pieces are lovely. They may work better as separates. I wouldn’t waste them as pjs.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you Barbara. I would be sad to not get wear out of the beautiful fabric as every-day wear, so I think I'm inclined to re-fashion them a this point. 😊

[@Peg06]

The shorts set looks like a lovely shorts set to me, but you're the one whose opinion matters. Would it be tragic if someone thought they were pjs? The Chanterelle shorts are fab! You've got great legs, Sarah, and Melbourne deserves to see them more! Remember: once you've done high ropes, you can do anything!

[@SoSarahSewed]

Haha, thank you Peg! The high ropes course did make me feel quite strong and confident! Thank you for your lovely comment. x

[@CreativityFromBlueberryH-wo3gu]

Don’t apologize for spending time with your sons, and spending time with musical friends! I have two sons as well, and they were gone from home too fast, so I’m speaking to you from experience! I’ve heard it said that “sleepwear isn’t sleepwear until you sleep in it”! I think your set is lovely together, but pairing each piece with a solid opposite, and with a tank or camisole, might make you more comfortable. Comfort, after all, is the idea behind shorts, etc.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you so much! Yes, my eldest son turned 10 recently and he still enjoys spending time with me and wanting my company, so I need to try and make the most of that! Ha, I love that sleepwear quote. Well I haven't slept in it yet, so it's still daytime wear for now! 😂

[@SamCottam-Warnock]

Given you are a magician at fabric Tetris, do you think you could repurpose the shorts from the Tamarama set and make them more chanterelle style? You might wear them more as seperates. I was thinking of making a matching set and Ashton top would be the top I would pick. The sleeveless one as well. Less PJ looking

[@SoSarahSewed]

I was actually wondering that to be honest! I wonder if the pattern pieces might work on the Chanterelle pieces... If I go down the re-fashion path I might look into this idea. I made a new Ashton top this week! And I'm currently wearing my Chanterelle shorts and a cropped Ashton top! Such a comfy outfit for a hot day!

[@janechadwick2635]

Tbh the line drawing of the Tamarack screams pyjamas and I don't think fabric choice would effect the finished product. As you say, the armhole is huge = pjs. The shorts also have very wide legs and a drawstring would have added to the pj feel. Maybe worn on the beach with the shirt open would work. Beautiful fabric and well made.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thanks Jane! Yeah, I think the most likely course of action for me now is a refashion! I'm thinking of looking into free patterns for Sew Frugal and using the shirt fabric for that instead. As it is, I just don't think it will get the wear the beautiful print deserves!

[@bravelittlebuckaroo]

Thoughts on your Tamarama Set: Could you tuck it all the way in (maybe add a belt?) and give it a faux playsuit vibe? OR could you tie the shirt at the front, either buttoned, or unbuttoned with a pink or green tank underneath? 🤔 But even if you decide to only wear them as PJs or loungewear, what luxe PJs or loungewear they would be! Also, I don't know what the stitch pattern is, but those fat, fluffy, pink stitches in your new shawl are totally lush!💙

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thanks for the ideas Tamsyn! I have seen some people tying their tamarama shirts and I quite like the look. I should try it. Having said that, when I wore it all day last Sunday I got the sleeves caught SO many times on different door handles around my house that I am thinking a whole re-fashion is probably the more likely outcome in this case! The fluffy stitches are called the "fir rib dip stitch" - such a cool effect isn't it?! I'm loving this project. 💕

[@bravelittlebuckaroo]

@@SoSarahSewed Ohhh nooo. Can't be having things catching on door knobs. That absolutely does my head in! 🙃

[@houseinnorthcarolina9439]

I think because the top is too big on you, it makes it look more like PJs. Try tying the front of the shirt at the waist. It may work better. Also, take the seams in from the sleeve hem to the bottom hem to bring it in. Just some ideas, not criticism. Suzanne

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thanks for the ideas Suzanne! I think the oversized nature of the top is definitely one of the reasons it says "pjs" to me too. I will try a front-tie before I give up on it!

[@pamgains7720]

Hi Sarah, I was wondering if you buy bias binding in Australia. I look at the many sewist in the Uk, that buy Becky Seamstress binding & it looks so soft & colourful. Thanks in advance. Regards Pam.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Hi Pam, I haven't bought bias binding like those you mention in the UK. I just make my own when I need to. I do agree they look very sweet and handy! The only time I've ever bought bias binding was from Scribbly Gum Quilt Co for binding for a quilt - that was by Bessie Pearl, and I actually am not sure if it's bias binding or cut on the straight grain, as I think usually quilt binding isn't on the bias....

[@pamgains918]

Thanks Sarah, for the reply. Yes I can continue to make my own. EBay has a selection of binding which are colourful. I might try them in the future.

[@merylzimmer6569]

Hi Sarah just to let you know I just donated via Ko fi and I’m not sure if it is some setting on my side that I am not aware of but the dollar amount of the donation was automatically converted to US dollars. This may need to be something you let viewers know. I have no problem with it but it may be a concern to some people

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you so much for your Ko-fi donation and for your feedback! I have made a note about the currency on the page so hopefully future donors are not taken by surprise. 💕

[@nancycoyle-f5c]

You could make the “PJ” top smaller. Cut off the sleeves, open the side seams and cut a smaller size using the pattern pieces. The fabric is too pretty to not wear it. The super oversized trend is not for everyone and that’s ok.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Thank you Nancy! I think some kind of re-fashion is the most likely outcome for the shirt, so I appreciate your suggestion!

[@lindarogers4188]

I think if you made them more fitted, they would not look so much like pj's.

[@SoSarahSewed]

Yes, the shirt in particular is very "relaxed"!

[@corriezietsman7061]

Shirt is much to big for you

[@SoSarahSewed]

Yeah, it feels a bit much! I think I'll re-fashion it. 😊

[@nerissajordan5092]

Hi Sarah! Have you tried putting point protectors on your DPNs? They also work to stop stitches slipping off, and that might help it be more relaxing to knit your cardigan. Lots of shops sell them