Summer Sewing Fun, Part I

Over the summer, I stashed my pharmacy books and study guides and dove right into sewing and family fun. At the beginning of my summer break I purchased a few patterns and books on sewing clothes for little girls. I have an adorable 2 year old (nearly three now) girl who loves skirts, dresses, and frilly pants. I, too, love skirts, dresses, and frilly pants especially when they're layered and splashed with complimentary colors and patterns.

The first 3 patterns I got were Modkid patterns. I love Patty Young. Her fabric collections always makes me smile. I have such a difficult time cutting into Michael Miller fabrics designed by Patty Young because I tend to reserve them for the "perfect project." Of course, no perfect project comes along and I end up admiring them washed and neatly folded in stacks on my fabric shelf.

 The first dress I decided to make was from the Modkid Ava pattern. My wonderful husband had purchased Cloud 9 Organic fabric (Flock Bird in Sky) in enough amounts to create this darling outfit.The directions were clear and concise; easy to follow and also allows the maker to use their imagination. I just made it exactly as stated in the directions, but I can see how you can change a few things. Also, the pattern is two separate pieces with a top and then a skirt. So pair this classy top with a cute pair of skinny jeans and you've got yourself a stylish diva!

 My next pattern adventure was the Modkid Nina pattern. It is ridiculously easy to follow and there are so many variations that even someone with limited sewing experience can come up with ideas to enhance its already fantastic design. The particular version that I made (the sleeveless top) allows my daughter to use this outfit for at least 2, maybe even 3, years. This is because the skirt has an elastic waist and the top can be adjusted (via the shoulder straps) as my littlest grows. 

Look at her face! She loves getting new outfits!

The Modkid Frida pattern was next. This was an easy and fun pattern. I had a little trouble with the sleeve, but it was due to user error. The dress looks super comfortable and I had half a mind to increase the size and make one for me, but I didn't think it was such a good idea being as I would have to increase length, bust size, arms...you get the idea. It would just be depressing.

Modkid patterns are fun and easy to follow. They are great for beginners because the instructions are very direct with fabulous illustrations that leaves you with no doubt. It is also a nice pattern if you are an experience sew-er as the pattern leaves so much room to add your own creativity to it.

Of course I went out and purchased more Modkid patterns. In addition to the 3 I listed above, I purchased the Emma, Maddie, and Kyoko patterns. I already had the Modkid Julia skirt pattern which I have used and love because it's so easy and produces such a stylish skirt. My next purchase will be the Addison pattern. I've been eyeing for a few days on Patty Young's blog. Can you say "gorgeous!" I think my little sweetness won't be able to take that one off if I make one for her. I guess there can be worst things to happen as a mom.