When I’m browsing Riley Blake’s upcoming collections, there’s always a few from each collection that I fall for. If there’s stripes, you better believe I’m smitten! These stripes from Rose and Violet’s Garden are pastel perfection!
I’ve been excited to sew up the Chalk and Notch Mini Marcel Dress since it’s release and these stripes were just made for those side panels! I mean c’mon- I just had to do it!
The Mini Marcel is an easy, breezy sundress that features fun, gathered, multi-tiered side panels. This not so little miss was barely under the largest size for chest, waist, and hips (and still a couple inches shy of the women’s) but 7 inches taller than the size 12. The tutorial gives clear instructions on how to lengthen and I added 4 inches total to get our desired length. I also lengthened the shoulder straps. I love that there’s enough room for her to wear this through spring and summer.
The midi-length is perfect for a growing girl! It’ll look cute as she continues to sprout up and get close to passing me right up.
The dress has no closures which I think is so ideal for a sundress. You want something unfussy and comfy, right?!
I’m pretty sure this dress needs to be worn on the beach with the crystal blue water and white sands at her feet. Unfortunately for us, the day we took these pictures we were in the middle of a snowstorm and not soaking up the sunshine! Someday it will see the ocean though…
I was so tempted to sew these stripes up for myself. The colors are some of my absolute favorites (just take a look around my sage covered house!). I debated between sewing myself up a cute pleated skirt in the sage or a fun Melody top in the yellow. Little sis was hoping for something in the yellow too (remember yellow is one of her top colors too?!). This girl is constantly handing down her dresses though and was the winner by sheer wardrobe space, lol. I’d say she’s one lucky girl!
I’d say that smile is just about worth it! Can’t wait for her to wear this come spring!
When Diana at Raspberry Creek Fabrics mentioned new hacci sweater knit prints were coming to the shop, I immediately began dreaming of the perfect leisure outfit in plush RCF hacci. This classic houndstooth print totally spoke my name and I knew it just had to happen.
RCF hacci knit is a medium weight fabric with over 50% stretch. It’s light and flowy but has an incredible softness and plushness too. The poly/rayon/spandex blend means this fabric washes up beautifully, has enough stretch and recovery for almost all of your needs, and feels like heaven!
For this outfit, I turned to two of my go-to Love Notions patterns: the Sloane Sweater and Allegro Bottoms (affiliate links). I slightly modified both patterns to fit my vision and I’m pretty ecstatic with the results.
In the past I’ve found my Sloane’s a little too wide in the neck. For this version, I used the crew neckline from the Classic Tee to bring the neckline in and up a tad. I also added length to the sleeves so I could omit the cuffs and do a rolled sleeve hem instead. While I love cozy sweaters, I always push my sleeves up to mid forearm (something about my wrists suffocating, lol). Omitting the cuffs makes this so much easier and more comfortable. Since I was going for cozy comfort, I made these modifications to make these pieces really suit me.
For the Allegros, I made a few small changes. I added a band to the pocket to pull it in a touch. I also modified the waistband piece to be two separate rectangles instead of the curved waistband. To do this I measure the length of each waistband piece then used that as my length. For the width I just doubled the width of the waistband minus the upper seam allowance since I wanted to just fold my pieces in half lengthwise. For the cuffs, I cut a couple of inches off of the legs then used a cuff piece from another jogger pattern. While the Allegros have an elastic cuff option, for true comfort I knew eliminating the elastic and using a same fabric cuff would be ideal.
So the big question is, Do I dare wear this set outside of my house? It’s so perfect for lounging but am I cool enough to run errands in head to toe houndstooth? I love that these pieces will work so well with so many things in my wardrobe. I have a cute magenta sweatshirt that I will totally wear with the pants and this top will look so cute with jeans and layered over a plaid shirt. So whether they’re worn together or as separates, I have a feeling these pieces are going to be worth their weight in gold.
When I saw that Riley Blake had new Designer Knits hitting the scene, I knew we had to try them! We loved our knit makes from last fall and I’ve been looking forward to knew designs. These prints by Mimi G did not disappoint.
My girls picked the Leopard Print White and Spots White for their prints. I also picked up some black jersey to make some leggings to pair with them. Riley Blake knits are a mid weight jersey with plenty of stretch. They feel great for pajamas, tops, leggings, and dresses.
I sewed up the Made for Mermaids Pepper Top for both of them. The pattern is so full of options and it was so fun for them to really customize their tops. Short sleeves, long sleeves, multiple necklines and bodice fits make this a pattern that I’ll use over and over. Payton has already requested a few more.
For Sophie’s I sewed up a size 12 with added length. I used the short banded bottom and short sleeve with the boat neckline.
Payton wanted all the drama! She picked long sleeves with tall cuffs and a tall bottom band. Throw in the mockneck and this is the perfect winter top!
Sophie got new leggings out of the RB jersey. As you can see from this side by side, little sis is wearing store bought leggings and Sophie’s fit soooo much better! I used the free Love Notions Leggins’ with the yoga waistband but cut at the elastic waist cut line for a nice high waisted fit. The knit is very comparable in feel to the RTW leggings and these will be a staple in her closet for sure.
I love sewing basics for these girls and knit tees are things that will get worn over and over again. These Mimi G prints make these not-so-basic and we love these finished garments!
This post contains affiliate links. I am a Love Notions Ambassador and if you purchase a LN pattern through my links I get a small commission (and it costs you nothing extra!). Thank you!
The newest Love Notions pattern couldn’t be more perfect timing. The Compose Robe is a cozy layering piece that is so full of options. There is a ladies and children’s version so you can outfit your whole crew.
You can sew up your robe in virtually any fabric as this pattern is meant for both knits and wovens. There is an optional hood and of course big, deep pockets! The women’s version also includes a full bust piece. The women’s is done in Love Notions inclusive sizing of XS-5X and the children’s also has a huge size range of 2t-16. Love Notions patterns are trimless for easy printing and taping and there are print shop and projector files included as well.
This cute girl asked for a robe for Christmas but wanted it handmade and not store bought (smart girl!). Little did she know that Tami at Love Notions was granting her wish! Throw in some AMAZING leopard minky from Raspberry Creek Fabrics and she is one happy girl! This fabric is so fluffy and soft that she never wants to take it off. It’s just like wearing her favorite blanket!
I sewed up a size 8 for her with added length. We did the hood, of course, for extra coziness!
She kept yawning while we were taking pictures and blamed it on her robe just being too cozy it made her want to take a nap!
Sewing with minky can be a little tricky but my good friend Katie shared some of her tips on her blog or you can check out Rachel’s post on the Raspberry Creek Blog as well. Following their tips really did make it an easy and fun experience sewing this project.
For my robe, I knew I wanted something cozy but not too bulky and hot. This gorgeous sweatshirt fleece from Raspberry Creek is exactly what I envisioned.
It was much easier to sew than the minky version and was a quick afternoon project. It’s so soft on the inside but not too thick. It’s just so perfect for lounging around the house! As I type this I’m seriously wondering why it’s not on my body right this second. I’m not a big robe person but I think I’ve just never had the right one. 2020 has changed so much of my wardrobe and I think this robe will get way more wear than I ever imagined. It’s just the ultimate in comfort!
I sewed up a size small in calf length with the hood as well. I wanted ALL the coziness!
Do you think if I wear the hood up my kids will get the hint and leave this mama alone for a bit?! Hood up, a good book, and some hot cocoa and my day would be made!
Make sure to grab your patterns (kids and ladies) on sale through Monday December 7th. And there’s a bonus hair wrap pattern included in both the versions!
The newest Project Run and Play collection, Project Lounge Library is here and I can’t wait to share it with you! We got to join in the lookbook fun and you’ve just got to check it out. The PRP Lookbooks are some of my favorite inspiration ever! I love to see the creativity and gorgeous makes and I always feel so inspired. You can check out the newest one here.
All of our fabric for this post and lookbook was sponsored by Raspberry Creek Fabrics. From linen to french terry and double brushed polyester, this collection is all about the comfort and these fabrics were the perfect match!
For the lookbook spreads we all picked books we loved. When I had just two little boys, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day was a favorite. Of course, we had our own Alexander so it was extra relatable. We laughed at all of the silly things that kept going wrong in his day and I loved the end sentiment that some days are just like that (even in Australia!). 2020 has felt just like his day. Just when we think we’ve heard and handled it all, something else comes along to throw us all for a loop. Not gonna lie, it’s been rough BUT I wouldn’t trade it for anything. We’ve learned so much along the way and while it hasn’t been the year we’d planned, it’s definitely had it’s bright spots. Instead of focusing on the negative, we put a positive spin on it!
Our toilet paper supply is ready for whatever may come. We’ve never been more prepared!
We’ve had endless time for new hobbies! Music, puzzles, crafts, games- you name it and we’ve done it. With all the time at home, we’re loving learning new things and spending more time together.
For girls who like to accessorize, masks are just one more thing to complete a look. We’ve tried all the DIY patterns and store bought masks and love having a variety to match just about anything.
And one of my favorite things is jammie day, all day, every day! We love living in our comfy clothes and this whole collection is just meant to be lounged in. From pj’s to joggers, our wardrobe has changed this year and I’m not mad about it one bit.
I also designed 5 cut files as part of the collection that you can pick up in the PRP shop. It was fun coming up with our favorite book quotes and reading themed graphics!
Are you ready for all the glorious details on my makes for this collection? This collection features 10 garment patterns and a darling beanie and there is a separate collection of dolls and clothing too! I was able to sew up 9 of the patterns this round and they were all soooo good! This is by far my favorite collection to date and each pattern will be a staple in our house.
Charlie is wearing the George Hoodie and Joseph Joggers, both are unisex patterns from Bobbins ‘N Buttons. The George goes from 12 mos- 12 years and the Joseph Joggers are 12 mos- 14 years. The George is a great relaxed fit hoodie that come together in a flash. The Joseph Joggers are a slim-fit (but not too slim!) with optional knee panels.
For his outfit, I used simple french terry solids in light grey and navy.
In true little boy fashion, this kiddo put those knee patches to the test ASAP. Within minutes of putting these pants on, he’d already slid across the wood floor multiple times (clean wood floors are just too tempting!).
I had to hide a little bit of my all time favorite RCF print for my boys in the hood lining. Anybody else hoarding this oldie but goodie?
He got a Bookish Beanie in one of his favorite fabrics, a camo waffle knit. He had originally said he didn’t care what fabric I used because he wasn’t really a beanie guy but then I slid this puppy on his head and he had a total change of heart!
This look is the Novella Pinafore paired with the Story Top and Dress by Elegance and Elephants. They both are in sizes 2-12 and have multiple options for each. I did the aline skirt for the Novella and the top version of the Story.
I used a stretch linen for the Novella (currently sold out but this dusty purple would be lovely too!). The stretch in the linen makes this such a great kid fabric- comfortable and still so chic! The top is a soft double brushed polyester.
I love that these pieces look extra special but still are comfortable. They pair so well together but that top also looks darling with jeans too!
To finish her look, I sewed up the Biography Bomigan from Jennuine Designs. This is a unisex pattern that comes in sizes newborn to 14. It is a cross between a cardigan and bomber jacket and makes a great lightweight layering piece.
I used ponte for this version (black from RCF and teal from the stash). You can add either snaps or a zipper but once she tried it on she really wanted the open cardigan look so we kept it simple.
This girl got an Alice Top (and dress) and Prose and Poetry Cargo Joggers. The Alice Top and Dress is a woven garment with optional sleeves and shoulder ruffles that comes in sizes 12 mos- 13 years. The Prose and Poetry Cargo Joggers have skirt and short options and come in sizes 1-16.
Her top is made in a flannel from the stash (maybe Joann’s?) and her joggers are a rayon linen. I think the weight of this linen was ideal for this pattern. It gives it a little structure but also drapes really nicely.
I squeezed in the Alice Top very last minute and I’m so glad I did. My girls are kinda too ‘simple’ for ruffles and I had a hard time envisioning this pattern without them. When I spotted this plaid in my stash I just knew I had to give it a try. I did a tie at the neck that matches the drawstring in the joggers and love the little detail.
With each make I thought I’d found a new favorite but these Prose joggers really might take the cake. There are so many fun pockets (including a couple of secret pockets that your kids will die over!). The fit is amazing and they really don’t take too long to sew up. Which is a great thing considering the other two kiddos have already put in their orders for their own pair.
She also got a George Hoodie in yummy burgundy french terry (don’t ask me how this color is even softer than the others?!). I threw in a fluffy faux fur scrap for the hood lining and this is the garment that I’m wishing was in my size. It’s a little piece of heaven!
The last pattern I sewed up was the Nini Noni Nightwear. This is such a powerhouse pattern. It’s a unisex pattern in sizes newborn to 16 years (talk about an amazing size range!) and is loaded with different views. Nightgown- check. Shorts and short sleeves- check. Puff sleeves and long pants- check.
This girl got a nightgown in maxi length with long puff sleeves. In a super soft double brushed polyester, she loves to wear this as often as it’s clean.
This kiddo also got short sleeves and long pants. CLUB jersey is his favorite for pajamas and add in the fact that it’s tie dye and these are already well loved.
Phew! If you made it through that novel (see what I did there?), head on over to the Project Run and Play shop to check out the whole collection for even more inspiration. And follow along on the blog for the next two weeks as all of the look book collaborators share their makes!
Thanks so much for your support and let me know if you have any questions about this latest collection. I know your kiddos will love it as much as mine do!
SewSophieLynn 