I bet you all forgot I even had a boy, didn't you? He doesn't show up here much, because he doesn't really like me to make him things. Crazy, I know! Fortunately I have found the secret... He doesn't mind wearing clothes I made, he just wants no part in the process. So if I don't ask him before hand (which is the best secret for working with my daughter) he's happy to wear what I made him. You can never count on what worked for now child working for the other. Oh well.
On to the show! The real reason I have made him so many clothes recently is that I was a pattern tester for the most recent Pattern Anthology bundle: Make Believe. There are four new top patterns, all of which have many options to customize for boys and girls. They are bundled until July 28th, and there are bundle options with a fun e-book and 4 pants patterns too. They are great patterns and I had so much fun making them! I see being able to make a complete back to school wardrobe with the whole bundle!

First up is the Imagine Jacket. This was the first pattern sent to me and I panicked a bit. A Jacket? What have I gotten myself into? The pattern was so great, however, that I am actually thinking about making another! The directions are great and I had no problem putting together this super cute bomber-style jacket. The fit is great on this pattern, but I have learned that my boy has extra long arms (I guess if I sewed for him more I'd already know that!) so next time I'll lengthen the sleeves.
Like I mentioned in a previous post, pattern testing makes me (lazy sewist) remember that details may take time, but they are not hard if you have a good pattern with good instructions. I love the look of these welt pockets! This pattern has really motivated me to slow down and take time for those amazing details!
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Other details I love in this jacket are the contrast panels and the pieced sleeve. Lots of opportunities for customizing. I have also learned that I am a sucker for topstitching. Why does it make everything look so good? The blue fabric is a sturdy twill (I think) I found at Goodwill, but the lining and pockets are super soft grey flannel. My boy is a sucker for soft!
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Stay tuned... next is the Explorer Hoodie.