DIY: Adapt the Songe shorts in French Terry
Moodboard: Nomad Inspiration & Basics
As winter lingers, we crave softness and comfort in our clothing. Our Nomade capsule collection embodies a cosy yet stylish wardrobe, introducing a new addition to the Maison Fauve fabric range: French Terry sweatshirt fabric, accompanied by matching ribbing. This premium fabric is thick yet easy to sew, supple, soft, and made from 100% cotton. Providing matching ribbing ensures a seamless finish to your garments, eliminating the challenge of mismatched colours.
At Maison Fauve, we’ve curated a wardrobe that aligns with your desires, introducing a new collection: The Basics. This debut set features the Soupir pyjamas and the Songe shorts and Blush camisole duo, allowing the Femme Fauve to embrace her handcrafted outfits from morning to night. These two collections complement each other perfectly, embodying a harmonious mindset.
🔹 Nomade Collection : patterns and fabrics in shades inspired by nature, for a wardrobe that is equally suited to the outdoors as it is to a more urban silhouette, and cosy materials. See the capsule
🔹 Basics Collection : basic and timeless patterns, for loungewear that is both chic and relaxed. See the capsule
Mixing patterns and fabrics season after season comes naturally to me, so the idea of creating a pair of activewear shorts in French Terry fabric quickly felt like the perfect fit—especially since the Songe shorts and Ressac sweatshirt duo has such undeniable charm!
The inspiration
Inspired by these ideas, we’re transforming our Songe pyjama shorts into a relaxed sweat-knit outfit—perfect for lounging at home or pairing with a matching sweatshirt for a chic, modern casual look.
Why Choose French Terry?
French Terry is a soft, slightly stretchy knit fabric commonly used for sweatshirts. It drapes beautifully while providing exceptional comfort. Paired with a matching ribbed cuff, it adds a polished and professional touch.
Adapting the Songe Shorts Pattern in French Terry
1. Choosing the Right Supplies
Our French Terry fabric has a width of 180 cm, and you'll need only 70 to 80 cm, depending on your size. The table below outlines the fabric requirements and layout for optimal cutting.
The required amount of ribbing and elastic is listed in the table below, based on your selected size.
You Will Also Need:
- Overlocker thread matching your fabric – check out Our overlock threads selection.
- Classic thread and a double needle for clean, professional finishes – explore Our bobbins .
- Fabric clips, which work better than pins for sweatshirt fabric – find Our clips here.
- No need to iron the fabric before sewing.
🔹 Fabric Tip: For a result similar to our visuals, choose a French Terry with good structure (minimum 240 g/m²).
2. Adjusting the Pattern
✅ Seam Allowances: The Songe pattern was originally designed for woven fabrics, with 1 cm seam allowances. For the best results when sewing with sweatshirt fabric, use an overlocker and ensure the blade maintains this margin.
✅ Elasticated Waist: To enhance the sportswear look and simplify assembly, replace the classic waistband with a stretch ribbed band, which will act as a casing for your elastic.
✅ Hems and Finishing touches :
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Use an overlocker for a clean and durable result.
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On a sewing machine, opt a stretch stitch or a light zigzag stitch .
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For hems, a twin needle is ideal for a professional finish.
Pair the Shorts with a Matching Sweatshirt
For an ultra-comfortable set that works just as well for lounging at home as for a sportswear-inspired look, pair your Songe shorts with a matching sweatshirt in the same French Terry. Our Ressac pattern is the perfect choice—comfortable, well-balanced (neither too loose nor too fitted), and full of stylish seam and finishing details for a modern, laid-back vibe. See the pattern
🔹 Style Tip: Elevate the look by pairing this set with a denim piece, like a shirt or windbreaker, to maintain the boyish charm while moving away from an overly sporty aesthetic. For a fresh twist, experiment with colour-blocking—sewing the sweatshirt and shorts in the same fabric quality but in different shades for a dynamic, stylish effect!
Conclusion
With just a few simple tweaks, the Songe shorts in French Terry transform into a must-have for a casual wardrobe. Comfy, stylish, and effortless to sew, they’re perfect for both laid-back days and easygoing outings.
Ready to sew your own? Share your creations with #maisonfauve!