How to Sew the Cigale Dress and Jumpsuit by Marmaï Patterns

By BOHIN | Published: 2026-10-26

Category: How-to Guides

Learn to sew the Cigale dress and jumpsuit by Marmaï Patterns with this step-by-step guide. Perfect for jersey fabrics and available in sizes 3-12.

Quick Answer

Sew the Cigale dress and jumpsuit by Marmaï Patterns by choosing the right jersey knit, cutting carefully, and following the step-by-step construction for your chosen variation.

Why Choose the Cigale Pattern?

The Cigale pattern by Marmaï Patterns is designed for children aged 3 to 12 and offers up to 10 variations, including a combishort, a jumpsuit with a skirt, a buttoned dress, and a dress with pleats. This versatility makes it a great value for sewists who want to create multiple garments from one pattern.

Because the pattern is made for knit fabrics, it's an excellent project for practicing your jersey sewing skills. The different options let you adjust the complexity, from a simple combishort to a more detailed buttoned dress.

Fabric and Notions

For the Cigale pattern, you'll need jersey knit fabric that has good recovery and doesn't stretch out of shape. Cotton jersey or a cotton-spandex blend works well for children's clothing. You'll also need matching thread, a ballpoint or stretch needle for your sewing machine, and a walking foot if you have one.

Depending on the variation you choose, you may need buttons for the buttoned dress or elastic for the combishort. Check the pattern envelope for the specific notions required for each view.

Step-by-Step Sewing Instructions

Choose Your Variation and Size: Decide which of the 10 variations you want to sew (e.g., combishort, jumpsuit, buttoned dress). Measure the child and select the correct size from the pattern chart. Trace or cut the pattern pieces for your chosen view. Double-check your measurements against the finished garment measurements to avoid a too-small or too-large fit.
Prepare and Cut Your Jersey Fabric: Pre-wash and dry your jersey fabric to prevent shrinkage. Lay the fabric on a flat surface, place the pattern pieces as directed, and pin or use weights. Cut carefully with sharp scissors or a rotary cutter. Use a rotary cutter and mat for more accurate cuts on stretchy fabric.
Sew Shoulder Seams: With right sides together, sew the shoulder seams using a stretch stitch or a narrow zigzag. Press the seams open or to one side. Test your stitch on a scrap piece of jersey to ensure it doesn't pucker.
Attach Sleeves or Straps: Depending on your variation, attach sleeves or straps as per the pattern instructions. Match notches and ease the fabric if needed. Sew with a stretch stitch. Use a walking foot to prevent the jersey from stretching while sewing.
Sew Side Seams: With right sides together, sew the side seams from the underarm down to the hem. Press the seams. Finish the raw edges with a serger or a zigzag stitch to prevent fraying.
Finish the Neckline and Armholes: For a clean finish, use binding or fold-over elastic to finish the neckline and armholes. Follow the pattern instructions for the specific finish required. If using binding, stretch it slightly as you sew to prevent the neckline from gaping.
Hem the Garment: Fold and press the hem, then sew with a twin needle or a coverstitch for a professional look. If the pattern includes a buttoned placket, sew the buttons and buttonholes at this stage. Use a twin needle for a stretchy hem that moves with the fabric.

Pattern Details

Cigale, la combi et robe jersey - Marmaï Patterns: The Cigale pattern is designed for children aged 3 to 12 and offers up to 10 variations for knit fabrics, including a combishort, a jumpsuit, and dresses. This means you can sew multiple garments from one pattern, making it a cost-effective choice for growing kids.
Cigale, la combi et robe jersey - Marmaï Patterns