Sewing Again

My to do lists for much of the month of January ended up having a significant amount of non crafty type work on it.  Yes, really, I don't know how to make tax preparation fit in the crafty category.  My brain hurts just thinking about it.  But all that is done and over with and my plate is very happily looking a bit emptier for February.  

A couple of weeks ago, as I was sorting through Bea's bigger sized clothing, it became quite apparent that her size 3 stack was growing nicely with a large variety of items, yet her size 2 items (of what she's beginning to need now) included just a few summer dresses. Anybody else slowly collect pieces of clothing for little ones seasons ahead of when they'll need it? We've been fortunate enough thus far, that Bea's wardrobe has consisted of a mixture of hand me downs from cousins, cute scores from thrifting, a few mama made pieces, or deeply marked down new items that I've bought from end of season sales. 

So for the first time ever, Bea needs some clothes!  Not a lot, but a few pieces that she can mix and match, layer, and put on and off herself.  This last reason is the most crucial reason for taking on the task of making her clothes for the spring and summer.  She has hit the sensitive period for wanting to care for and dress herself.  She can easily occupy herself for twenty minutes or so, exploring different ways to put on underwear, mama and daddy's clothes, socks, and shoes.  Very endearing indeed!   I want her to be successful at this and I want her to be comfortable as continues to be a busy, busy little girl. So much of the clothing that is out there being sold for babies and toddlers, looks so uncomfortable, and so cumbersome to put on.  Skinny jeans for a pudgy toddler.... Um, no.  

I've begun to make some little wide leg elastic pants. I'm using the Made By Rae pattern. Fair warning to all: this pattern is quick, easy, gratifying, and therefore, addictive!  I've made Bea two pairs already.  One of the greatest things about this pattern is that they are made to fit over the poofy cloth diaper bottoms! Hooray for the end of diaper overflow! Once she becomes potty trained, I think I'll still be able to use the pattern for her.  I can size down (if necessary) and lengthen the bottoms.  

I'm also going to make her a few jumpers and a few more cross back sleeveless smocks with little bloomers/shorts to mix and match.  Fun! Fun! Since, she's napping right now, I've got to take advantage and get cutting into some fabric. It's suppose to get really cold here this week.  Brrr..maybe a nice pair of corduroy trousers would be nice to wear this week...  

Comments

[Catherine]

I love that pants pattern! So much fun... and finally no cloth diaper poofage.

[Stephinie]

fantastic! I love these..... and the photos are perfect :)

[Nichole]

I loved it even more once I read the post about crotch wonkiness! :) Have you made them for Juni? I loved your last sewing posts.

[Nichole]

Mucho gracias! Off to finish some thick red corduroys...Can I rework this pattern to fit me? Hmmm....

[greenemother]

Fantastic!! Love, love, love them!

[Nichole]

Thanks Lissadell! If you ever find Neave needing some new trousers, I recommend this pattern. Super fun.

[Catherine]

Yes, I definitely experienced some of the crotch wonkiness. I think I've gotten the hang of it though. I haven't made any for Juni yet. I think I need to make the 2T a bit bigger for her. I made a couple little ones for Owen and I gifted several to my (very few) cloth diapering friends. I love love the buttons that you added on the pockets...

[Heart Felt]

Very cute pants Nichole, just to let you know you won one of the Atticus Finch cat purses on Heart Felt. Email me you your address! Congrats! xxxx

[Nichole]

Thanks! They are my latest nap time addiction!