KCW Day 4: Heidi & Finn Summer Maxi Dress

 
It's Day 4 of KCW and I finished this top based on the Heidi & Finn Summer Maxi Dress.  The blue is a knit tshirt that I upcycled.  I actually made this top to match a skirt currently in testing.  S really needs more solid knit tops.

I kept the bodice section of the pattern, but changed up the skirt portion; obviously it is much shorter, and I used the lower part of the tshirt, gathered to fit in the front only.  I added the butterfly applique to tie it in further with the skirt.

  I also changed the back to a button and loop instead of a tie closure.  I like that little bit of orange peaking out from the back placket. 

KCW Days 2 and 3: Some Leggins, a couple of swimsuits and a leotard

Days 2 and 3 were spent making some practical things that S really needed like a month ago.  But better late than never, right?

First up are some capri leggings, a soon-to-be released FREE pattern by E + M Patterns.   These were all knits/ spandex found in my stash, mostly leftovers from dance costumes.  I particularly love those faux leather leggings on the far right. 

The pink swimsuit and black leotard were made from the same pattern by Ellie Inspired.  These literally took so little time, an hour at most.  And the fit is perfect!

Finally, I turned Filles a Maman's latest pattern, the Elisa halter top into a swimsuit tankini!  The bottoms are from the Jalie mix 'n match bikini pattern.  I love the fit of both pieces.  Maybe soon I will post some modeled pictures and show you the other two Elisa tops that I've made.

The girls are in art camp this week, so I have lots of sewing time on my hands.  We will see what else I can accomplish this week!

KCW Day 1: The Marina Romper

Day 1 of KCW and I finished this little jumpsuit.  This is the Marina Romper, by Calie Faye Collection.  Originally this was meant for the 4 year old, but after trying it on, she refused to take pictures.  So here it is on her big sister.  It's a little short on the torso, but otherwise fits S pretty nicely. 

Their dad says the romper looks like a clown outfit.  I sorta think he has a point.  But aside from that, I quite like this outfit.  The pattern calls for wovens, but I made mine in a soft cotton knit, and it worked beautifully. 

So Day 1 of KCW is in the books! 

Make (Believe) Collection by Pattern Anthology



The gals of Pattern Anthology have done it again!  They've put together a truly cohesive collection with all the details and style that we've come to expect from them.  The collection comes with 4 patterns: the Bookworm Button-Up, the Adventure Tee, The Imagine Jacket, and the Explorer Hoodie.  This time around, there are a few different packages to chose from: but basically you can get the patterns for under $5.00 per pattern.  That's a steal in my opinion.  There's also an e-book of activities for children included in a few of the packages.  I've looked over the e-book and am so excited to get started on these activities.  Now that summer is here, my girls and I have a lot of time on our hands and its nice to be able to reach for a structured activity.  You can read more about the different packages  and the e-book here.

 

I was one of the lucky testers chosen to test all four of the new patterns.  If you've never tried a placket, or sewn a collar with a collar stand, or installed a zipper, these patterns are just the perfect place to start. 

 

 

 

 

 

The Bookworm Button-Up includes boy and girl versions with 3 back options, 3 sleeve options, and 3 pocket options.  This is the girly version with bow sleeves and pockets, and a pleated back. 

 

 

My version of the Adventure Tee has rolled-up sleeves with button tabs and a hi-low hem.

 

I made 2 Imagine Jackets, one for each girl.  For S's, I used a super-soft brushed cotton and for B, a purple velour.  Both jackets have ruched sleeves and shoulder patches.  I love how different the jackets look with the different fabrics.  The jacket also comes with regular sleeves and a color-blocked shoulder option.

 

  And finally, the Explorer Hoodie is a comfy, loose-fitting top perfect for cooler months.  It has two zipper options: angled and straight.  I made mine in an organic sweatshirt fleece.

 

The Make (Believe) Collection is available for only 2 weeks, so get it while you can! 

 

(image from Pattern Anthology)