I wanted to find an easy pattern that A) didn't require much fabric and B) didn't involve printing out a pattern. My internets/Google quest resulted in me choosing to make a "pillowcase" top based on this tutorial (the tutorial is for a dress, but my scraps only afforded me so much length). Turned out pretty cute! Definitely a good way for me to practice my sewing skills. Hopefully I can find a way to get this thing around the world to Zoe before she outgrows it like she did her booties (tears...).
For those interested, here's how I modified the pattern...
- Rather than cut eight 6x18" strips, I cut eight 6x12" strips
- For the hem, I only cut strips that were 6x22" rather than 7x22"
- I made the size 2T (meaning I cut off 1.5" of the end of the pieces as suggested by the tutorial)
- When piecing the front and back together, I pressed the seam open and top-stitched on either side of it so that it matched the decorative top-stitching used on the other seams. Plus, it provided me some back-up strength on those side seams!
- Rather than make or use bias tape (not enough fabric!), I just cut two long, thin strips (1.5" wide), folded them in on themselves and did two rows of top-stitching to make my own ribbon for the shoulders
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| Close up of my masterful (haaaaaa!) top stitching. |