sewing for boys: the oliver + s sketchbook pattern

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Something we hear a lot from our customers is how hard it is to find interesting, yet age appropriate ready-made clothes for kids. Sewing clothes for the smallest members of the household is the perfect way to solve that problem (not to mention it's a great stash-buster with the small amount of fabric sewing for kids requires!).

Oliver + S patterns have built a great reputation for easy-to follow instructions, timeless style and a polished finish. We have been giving the Sketchbook Pattern a bit of a run lately. A simple pair of shorts and a button-up shirt with a collar for boys, it's one of those versatile patterns that can be made up both 'for best' or otherwise.


We made the shorts in a size 5 - first up in our recycled polyester/organic cotton: smart!


Next, in Japanese baby-seal print double gauze for pajama pants: cozy! The fit was perfect for our 5-and-a-half year old animal lover.



We also made a version of the shirt in luxurious house-print Liberty Tana Lawn. This one is a size 6 and the fit is perfect now, but next time a bit of extra length in the body will be in order: it won't last through a growth spurt! One modification in this version was to make a placket front rather than full button front. The collar is one of the pattern options. One of the best things about this shirt with long sleeves in Liberty is that it's really cool and lovely for a summer day but also gives great sun protection.

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