When Isabelle from the Mimoï pattern brand released two jersey t-shirt / dress patterns in quick succession, I knew I was going to fall for them!
First, because cotton jersey is super comfortable even when it's hot... Who doesn't wear a cotton jersey t-shirt or top during the sunny season?
And second, because Isabelle always creates trendy, well-thought-out patterns with original details... long story short, as you might have guessed, I really love her work.
Between Confetti and Mamma Mia, her two new designs, I was torn.
I finally gave in and sewed the Mamma Mia t-shirt—its very unique detail caught my eye the moment I saw it!
So, ready to discover this model and my versions, including a surprise one?
Right this way!
Mamma Mia by Mimoï t-shirt version paired with the Cobalt pattern by Caledonia Dreamin as shorts
The pattern
Mamma Mia is a pattern featuring a simple, minimalist cut, but with that special detail that makes all the difference: a lovely keyhole neckline.
To highlight this keyhole feature, it's the perfect opportunity to add a gorgeous accent button that brings a touch of elegance to the garment.
Mamma Mia is quick to sew and comfortable to wear. This pattern can be made as a dress or a t-shirt, depending on your mood and the season.
A comfortable fit, easy to wear every day; it gets a 100% approval from me!
Practical information for sewing this model
Mamma Mia is available in PDF format, like all Mimoï patterns.
The formats provided are A4 / US Letter compatible and A0 for those who prefer to skip the taping 😉. As a nice bonus, seam allowances are included, and you can use layers to select only your size.
The skill level required is beginner.
The available sizes range from 32 to 52 for a height of 168 cm.
You will receive two options: dress or t-shirt.
The estimated sewing time is about 1h30, making it a great project for an afternoon.
In the seamstress's basket
Mamma Mia is designed for stretch knits such as cotton jersey, modal, Viscose, linen...
The required yardage can be found in the table above.
To sew Mamma Mia, you will also need the following supplies:
- Special stretch needles for sewing machine assembly
- Twin stretch needle, optional but makes hem sewing easier
- Stretch interfacing
- Decorative shank button (diameter to your preference)
- Framilon / clear elastic tape to stabilize shoulder seams and prevent stretching
- Matching thread or spools for the serger
My supplies
I chose to work with cotton jersey for this first version; I had a leftover piece from a previous 3m joly remnant, which was perfect for testing the Mamma Mia pattern before diving into other variations! I have plenty of ideas for hacking—meaning modifying—this pattern.
My first idea was to transform it into a dress with a skater skirt... if I were you, I would read to the end of this article 😉.
I searched through my box of threads and buttons and found a lone decorative accent button that was just right.
Technical skills
Although suitable for beginners, Mamma Mia involves a few technical points, including:
- Sewing a facing on jersey fabric
- Creating sleeve turn-ups
- Applying clear elastic tape to stabilize shoulder seams
- Topstitching the keyhole opening and finishing the hem.
The instructions booklet is very comprehensive and guides you step-by-step with clear diagrams and an intuitive progression. I found it very well detailed, making it easy to follow every step.
My sewing experience
I decided to cut my pattern in size 32 because the Mamma Mia t-shirt is designed with generous ease. I wanted a slightly more fitted look.
Usually, with Mimoï patterns, I sew a size 34 or 36... so I chose to size down, and I am delighted with that choice.
I think my t-shirt turned out perfectly!
For assembly, I used both my serger and standard sewing machine, as attaching the facings is much easier and neater on a regular sewing machine.
Either way, to sew Mamma Mia and topstitch the keyhole, you will need a sewing machine. You cannot construct it entirely on a serger 😉.
However, I assembled the sides, shoulders, and sleeve cuffs using the serger for a fast and neat finish!
I stitched my hem with the sewing machine, and it looks spotless!
I can confirm that Mamma Mia is a quick sew and a very satisfying project.
I think it took me about 1h30 to sew, just as Isabelle mentions in the pattern description. If you are a beginner, allow a little extra time.
After finishing this first t-shirt version, I set myself the challenge to hack the pattern and transform it!
So, if you want all the details to turn the straight dress version into a skater style, check out our YouTube channel right here.
I made this version using punta di roma knit, and I absolutely love it!
If you'd like to sew Mamma Mia or another lovely pattern by Isabelle from Mimoï, find them right here.
And if you want to learn how to sew stretch fabrics like jersey, feel free to sign up for our intro courses on using a serger or sewing jersey / pointelle t-shirts... it's the ideal way to get started and learn all our tips and tricks!
Discover our full range of courses here.
I'll leave you to it now; I still have plenty of things to sew and embroider today 😂
Happy sewing!
