Toddler (and Kindergartener!) Swing Tank

About a week ago, I made this Toddler Swing Tank.  It's a free pattern on the blog True Bias and I knew I had to try it after seeing Jill's (of Homemade By Jill) versions here and here.

I lengthened the pattern a bit with the intention of making it into a dress but, when all's said and done, I think it looks more like a tunic.  I probably needed another couple of inches for a dress.  The dress also ended up a bit snugger than I hoped for because I opted for French seams at the shoulders and side seams but the pattern only allows for a 3/8" seam allowance.  I crossed my fingers and hoped that it would all work out - and it did - but just barely.  Adding 1/4" to the shoulders and side seams would solve that little problem-of-my-own-making.  Also need to make the closure a little bit lower so it's easier to get on and off.  Our bodies may be on the petite side around here but not our noggins.

I like the clean shape of this A-line and think it would be great for showcasing a fun print.

The second fishy button.  Again, since the fit wasn't spot on, I decided to save the adorable turtle button that I was going to use.

The tunic is a little bit minimalist.  Simple, classic and perfect for play.

I liked the pattern so much that I modified it to fit my almost six-year-old.

Elegance & Elephants' First Pattern

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Have you ever visited Elegance & Elephants? It's a beautiful sewing blog and she is launching her first pattern next week - hooray!  It's called the Ruffle Top and I had a chance to test it out the A-line dress version for Evelyn.  There are three versions included in the pattern - a tunic top, A-line dress and swing dress (full skirt, party-ready).  Plus, the sizing goes from 18 months all the way to an 8.  With my oldest daughter turning six this year, I'm starting to appreciate patterns that go beyond a 5T.

 I love that this dress doesn't look like any of the other dresses in Evelyn's closet.  The princess seaming and A-line shape on this particular version is a nice chance from the high waist/full skirt on many of her other dresses.  And can we talk about the ruffles?  I love them - so sweet but not over the top!  The A-line version calls for a tie in the back and I followed the same placement but extended the ties to a finished length of 27" so that I could tie it in the front, kind of like a faux wrap.

The fabric is a twill from last year's Little Lisette Spring Collection (Jo-Ann Fabrics).  I picked mine up on clearance a couple of months ago and I've been hoarding it ever since, just waiting for the perfect project.  I gave Evelyn a choice of two buttons and wasn't really too surprised with her choice.  The fish bowl button is quirky and fun, a little surprise on the back of the dress.

Flower v. Fishy?  The fishy won!

 

You know what they say about two-year-olds?  Busy, busy.  She almost immediately picked a flower and started counting up the petals.

 

A view from the front . . . and the back.  Because I was testing the pattern, I didn't alter the measurements at all so you can imagine how relieved (and excited) I was that it was a perfect fit.  The ties give a tailored look AND allow wiggle room if you need it.

Those sweet ruffles.