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Using a manilla folder to make full size pattern pieces. Make sure to transfer the marks to the new pieces. |
Men's and boys clothes are adjusted more with fabric choices and stitching details. Middle Son chose a grey long-sleeve. This time, I am making the Ethan as a short sleeve for Youngest Son. This is supposed to be his Easter shirt and I let him choose the color. He usually wants brighter colors like his safety orange pull-over. However, lately he has been wanting black.
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I used the center of a black strip as the center on each piece. Make sure to line up the seam allowances on each piece. |
My life would have been much easier if I had just let him have his way with the solid black. It does give me the opportunity to play with matching fabrics. It really isn't too difficult as long as I remember before cutting that I want to match the checks.
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Align the pattern where the pocket will be and mark the pattern so that it can be aligned on the fabric before cutting. |
On the Sis Boom Ethan Button Down the collar, collar band, and yoke are printed in half and are to be cut on the fold. When working with fabrics I want to match, I will either trace the pattern and then flip it so that I can cut it, or I will make a full pattern piece. Here I used an old manilla folder. The crease is perfect for lining up the center edge. In size 10, this fit on the folder. The 12 may or may not.
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I pinned this rather securely. I also edge stitched very slowly and very carefully over the pins. |
Since Youngest Son wanted one front pocket, I marked on the front of the left front where the pocket was to be sewn. I then took the pocket pattern piece and drew lines to mark the placement for cutting. I used these lines on the fabric and cut it out. After folding the top of the pocket down and top stitching it into place, I then folded the edges and pressed. I didn't need the glue on the pockets, but it would be easier with some fabrics.
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The edge stitching is a reminder that there is a pocket. The top is aligned, but is lifted up in this picture. |
After removing the pins, I pressed and voila! Where is the pocket? Don't worry, the yellow is chalk and will wash out.
Hopefully, I will have finished pictures being modeled by Youngest Son.
Mrs, Toad - great shirt! I think YOU made it look easy, friend! ;-)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Maris. Sometimes I go on autopilot and forget how to explain what I did or why. I actually like working with stripes, plaids and checks. They help me keep everything on grain. I use it to cheat!
DeleteThis makes me want to complete so selfless sewing for my son!
ReplyDeleteI would recommend this pattern, Annie. It is drafted well and the directions look very thorough. I don't follow the directions, except for the front placket and seam allowances. Boys really like it when Mom sews for them.
DeleteWonderful pattern matching, you make it look so easy - someday I'll be brave and try it!
ReplyDeleteThanks. Meriel, you can do it! It just takes planning.
DeleteYou matched those stripes so perfectly! Its going to look great.
ReplyDeleteThanks. I'm hoping I can get this together. I have a pile of plaids waiting for their summer shirts.
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