Mama Lusco Handmade: Hoodies for Fall & PDF Pattern Makers

Whew! This week flew by in a whirlwind of activities. I did some sewing early in the week but just now got around to taking some pictures. I decided to try a two new PDF pattern-makers for fall hoodies.

The first one I made was from Mani-Mina, the Chic Kimono for sizes 12m-5T. The instructions were clear and the pattern was a breeze to sew. I used a sweatshirt fleece outer and quilting cotton lining. Fit was roomy. I like that this pattern includes options for omitting the lining and hood. This would also be darling lengthened into a dress. All of Mani-Mina patterns are less than $6, so a great value. Mally is now a 4t/5t so I'm hesitant to buy patterns that will only fit this year but really wanted to try this one and am glad I did. I wish these came in bigger sizes, too!

The second hoodie I sewed was the Urban Unisex Hoodie from Heidi & Finn Modern Wears for Kids.

This pattern was sized for 6m-5t and another great value for $5.95. Again, instructions were clear and assembly & sewing were easy. Instead of fully lining this one, I only lined the hood. I used bias tape as hem tape along the neckline to hide those seams and it turned out great! This one fits slim, so it won't last long unfortunately. I do really like the offset front seam and buttons and is why I chose this one.

I'm impressed with the number of great PDF pattern makers now. When I started sewing boutique for my girls 3 years ago, the number of affordable PDF patterns available was very limited. The first ones I used - and many of my old "stand-bys" - are from Whimsy Couture and The Handmade Dress.

Some of my other newer favorites include:
The Sweet Shop /Little Print designs;

Lil Blue Boo;

Dear My Kids EasyWear - Some patterns through age 11 and many are unisex!;

Little Lizard King.


Photo from LLK - Elizabeth Claire Dress

And recently discovered
Mama Stellato ;


Photo from Mama Stellato

Sew Sweet Patterns ;


Photo from Sew Sweet Patterns

And Owly Baby - love the Yoga Pants! Another fabulous site for instant download PDF patterns is You Can Make This. Sellers only get 50% of the sales price at YCMT, but it's a great place to shop for ideas or if you need a pattern now. Sign up for their newsletter and get dozens of freebies and hear about specials.

I know of many more great PDF pattern-makers but these are my favorite as a frugal - AKA cheap - seamstress. Rarely will I spend more than $8 for a pattern because there are just so many more affordable options out there. My plea to pattern makers is this: PLEASE give us more for big girls, big boys and women!!! If you have other favorite PDF pattern makers, please share them in the comments or send my an email. I also love to test patterns and would be happy to review in return for a blog post or two :-)
Angie ~ Mama Lusco
mamalusco@ortelco(dot)net