I started today with the Brooklyn Tank Top and Riviera Leggings at Abby's request. I had picked up this pink stretch knit at the thrift shop a few months ago and had just enough to make matching tops & bottoms for A and M. I followed the pattern exactly for the top. Next time, I'll add a little more length on the straps. I made the pants capri length by shortening the pattern and added a banded cuff. The pattern includes a cut line for shorts, but not for capris. The girls are really happy with them, but they look like PJs because of the fabric. Instead of a summer outfit, they got summer jammies!
What I learned:
~ Tracing a pattern - I had never actually traced a pattern before! I used freezer paper and could faintly see though to trace the appropriate sizes for the girls. No issues.
~ Adding seam allowances- This is my first experience sewing European patterns without seam allowances added. This is actually something I didn't mind because I often serge and don't need big seam allowances. I just eyeballed a scant 1/4" seam where I knew I would be serging and about 1/2" where I would hem. I will likely be more precise and measure when making more complicated patterns, but for these simple patterns with only a few pieces eyeballing it worked fine.
~ Take time to measure your body before cutting! I just guessed which size to use based on commercial sizing, but found that the pants were way too long and the shirts too short. If I had measured like I was supposed to, I'd have saved some time and fabric. I ended up tailoring as I went and ended with a nice finished product but it will be easier to do it right the first time.
Up next will likely be the Dortje pants, but not until I get some more summer clothes made!
