Sewing toddler pajama pants is one of those heartwarming little projects that’s both practical and fun. Whether you’re brand new to sewing or have a few projects under your belt, making pajama pants for a little one is a sweet way to create something personal, comfy, and totally adorable. Plus, let’s be real—tiny clothes are just cuter.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know: from materials, to easy-to-follow steps, to some pro tips to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Let’s get started!
So, why make your own toddler pajama pants?
Well, for starters, it’s way cheaper than buying them at most stores, and you get total control over the fabric, style, and fit. Want dinosaurs? Done. Unicorns? You got it. Fluffy clouds on mint green cotton? Say no more.
Sewing PJ pants is also a great beginner-friendly project. The pattern is simple, and you can make a pair in about an hour (or two if you’re watching Netflix while sewing—no judgment here).
Here’s what we’ll cover in this article:
- A step-by-step guide to sewing pajama pants
- A list of materials and pro tips
- FAQs for common hiccups
- A cozy wrap-up
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s break down the sewing process into a simple, easy-to-follow table so you can see exactly what to do and when to do it.
| Step | What You’ll Do | Details |
| 1. | Choose and prep your fabric | Cotton or flannel are great. Wash and dry it first to pre-shrink. |
| 2. | Grab or trace a pattern | You can download a free toddler pajama pattern online or trace an existing pair. |
| 3. | Cut out your fabric pieces | You’ll typically have two mirrored leg pieces. Pin the pattern to the fabric and cut. |
| 4. | Sew the inner leg seams | Place the right sides together and sew along the inner curve of each leg. |
| 5. | Join the legs | Turn one leg right-side out, insert it into the other leg (right sides together), and sew the crotch seam. |
| 6. | Hem the legs | Fold the bottom edge of each leg up twice and sew to create a clean hem. |
| 7. | Create the waistband casing | Fold the top down twice, leaving space for the elastic. Sew, but leave a 1-inch gap to insert elastic. |
| 8. | Insert elastic | Use a safety pin to guide the elastic through the casing. Overlap and sew the ends of the elastic. |
| 9. | Close the casing gap | Sew the opening shut, and that’s it—you’re done! |
Optional: Add a decorative bow or tag to the front so it’s easy to tell the front from the back.
Materials & Tips
Here’s everything you’ll need to gather before you get started, plus a few tips to help you along the way.
Materials Checklist
- 1 yard of cotton or flannel fabric (for most toddler sizes)
- Matching thread
- 1-inch wide elastic (you’ll need the toddler’s waist measurement + 1 inch)
- Scissors or rotary cutter
- Sewing machine (though you can sew by hand if you’re patient)
- Iron and ironing board
- Safety pin (for threading the elastic)
- Fabric pins or clips
- Optional: Serger for finishing seams
Pro Tips
- Pre-wash your fabric. Pajama fabric shrinks! Always wash and dry it before cutting.
- Label your pieces. If you’re doing multiple sizes or pairs, mark your pieces with chalk or post-its.
- Use soft elastic. Toddlers have sensitive tummies, so soft waistband elastic is best.
- Stretch test your stitch. If your toddler is an acrobat, use a slight zigzag stitch so the seams can stretch.
- Make a test pair. Got some scrap fabric? Practice on that first before using your fave prints.
FAQs
Can I make these without a sewing pattern?
Absolutely! Just trace around an existing pair of pajama pants (folded in half) and add a ½ inch seam allowance all around.
What’s the best fabric for toddler pajamas?
Cotton flannel is cozy and breathable. Jersey knit is great too, but a bit trickier to sew for beginners.
How do I know what size to make?
If you don’t have the child with you, check standard toddler sizing charts online—or go slightly bigger. Kids grow fast.
Can I add cuffs or pockets?
Totally! Rib knit cuffs add a pro finish, and patch pockets are adorable (and not too hard to sew on).
What if I don’t have a sewing machine?
Hand sewing is doable, but it’ll take more time. Just use small, strong stitches and double-thread your needle.
And there you have it—your very own handmade pair of toddler pajama pants! Whether you’re making them for your own kiddo, a niece or nephew, or as a baby shower gift, there’s something extra sweet about DIY pajamas. They’re cute, comfy, and stitched with love (literally).
Plus, now that you’ve got the hang of it, you can play around with patterns, lengths, and fun fabrics to make more. Matching family PJs, anyone?
So go on, break out that fabric stash, and happy sewing!