So this blog has basically become a fan page for Brindille & Twig. This is for good reason though. In terms of sewing for little ones they have a great selection of patterns and I can usually find what I am looking for in their catalogue.
I believe that the hooded raglan sweatshirt is the first pattern that I tried from Brindille & Twig as it's offered free on their website. I think the blog, So, Zo...What do you know? is where I first discovered it.
It's a free pattern and it is a great way to try out the company before making a purchase. It definitely won me over.
I believe that the hooded raglan sweatshirt is the first pattern that I tried from Brindille & Twig as it's offered free on their website. I think the blog, So, Zo...What do you know? is where I first discovered it.
It's a free pattern and it is a great way to try out the company before making a purchase. It definitely won me over.
The hoodie itself is well drafted with clear and thorough instructions. The hood is lined and there is a front kangaroo pocket. I have left the pocket off at times but my daughter has reached the age where all things must have a pocket.
I have found like all B&T patterns, I make a size smaller than retail but that the measurements listed are accurate. I've read a number of people on the B&T facebook group size up at least one size on the hood as they find it runs small. I haven't had a problem with this. My daughter's height, weight and head circumference are in the 85 percentile and she currently wears a 2-3T at 2 and half years old.
There is a seam at the centre front of the hood under the chin. I've read people will cut this on the fold to get rid of that seam. It doesn't bother me and it takes more fabric that way so I haven't tried it.
I have found like all B&T patterns, I make a size smaller than retail but that the measurements listed are accurate. I've read a number of people on the B&T facebook group size up at least one size on the hood as they find it runs small. I haven't had a problem with this. My daughter's height, weight and head circumference are in the 85 percentile and she currently wears a 2-3T at 2 and half years old.
There is a seam at the centre front of the hood under the chin. I've read people will cut this on the fold to get rid of that seam. It doesn't bother me and it takes more fabric that way so I haven't tried it.
I've used a variety of fabrics to make this hoodie. I've used french terry, cotton lycra, and some novelty faux animal fur print for the body of the hoodie. I've also seen fleece used with success. I'd suggest sizing up for the body if you use something with little stretch. I'd also modify the hood to have a lower opening under the chin if using little stretch as it can make it hard to get on and off.
I'd recommend using something with good stretch and recovery for the bands. I've had lots of success with cotton lycra and ribbing.
I'd recommend using something with good stretch and recovery for the bands. I've had lots of success with cotton lycra and ribbing.
This hoodie gives lots of opportunity for creativity. Colour blocking, modifying the pockets or adding piping to the raglan sleeves are some common modifications. Adding ears to the hood by adding an extra seam an inch behind the front of the hood is something I've easily done for Hallowe'en. I've also seen people add a seam down the centre back and then add dinosaur spines along the back of the hood all the way down which I may try at some point for fun.
I wholeheartedly recommend this free pattern to all my friends interested in sewing for their kids. Do you have any great free pattern recommendations?
I wholeheartedly recommend this free pattern to all my friends interested in sewing for their kids. Do you have any great free pattern recommendations?