So this is a little dorky, but I’m kind of into dressing the kids in matching, (or rather coordinating outfits!). Both the kids have gone through growth spurts recently, so they were in need of some hoodies. I used Heidi and Finn’s Urban Hoody pattern. This was my first time trying a PDF pattern bought online and I’m sold. The instructions were really clear and well-written with loads of pictures. My only issue was the instant gratification – it took about five or six hours for the pattern to be e-mailed and I was so ready to start sewing right away. I was assuming it would be e-mailed out automatically as soon as payment was received.
I did run into trouble because I lined the knit hoodies with non-stretchy qulting cotton – a beginner’s mistake. But in the end we recovered from that and I think they turned out okay. If I hadn’t done that, the buttons would have been on the side, like in the photo on the website, instead of centered. I find these days the problems I run into aren’t necessarily technique, but in not understanding the qualities of the fabrics I’m using. But I’m learning. Even since I’ve made these a couple of weeks ago, I’m feeling a bit more comfortable about my fabric choices. I guess this is progress!
It’s not easy to find information on fabrics, because for me at least, I think I only really get it once I have a chance to touch it in the fabric store, and work with it. I’ve since made a voile project, and also a silk and linen jacket which I hope to show you once I get around to adding the buttons. But here are some posts that have been useful at helping me understand the options out there:
Oliver and S: Knit Fabric Basics
Adventures in Dressmaking: Good fabrics for beginners
The Dreamstress: Voile and Lawn: What’s the Difference?
I will definitely make this hoody again, but I think next time I won’t bother lining the whole thing – just the hood. Also, I’d size up. I made the size four for three and 1/2 year old P, but I think a size five might have been better, although he’s a slim kid and not unusually tall. I don’t think this is entirely attributable to my use of non-stretchy lining either, although that’s certainly part of it. I made the 18 month for 10 month old M and it was perfect.
These hoodies are awesome! You are sew crafty! I thought of you when I hand sewed a pocket for CB’s uniform last week, LOL!
I am ALL. ABOUT. co-ordinating outfits! I used to dress them exactly alike A LOT, but as they’ve gotten bigger, the same outfits don’t suit their night and day personalities anymore, so I coordinate. I’m very impressed by your sewing… I haven’t touched a sewing machine since grade 8 when I made a pair of boxers that the teacher later used as an example of what NOT to do!! (True story).