Sewing Clothes for Children

One of the many benefits of knowing how to sew is that you can sew clothes for children.  Most often you don’t fully appreciate the skill until you need something different than what’s available for retail.  The something different could be the result of a wedding, school costume, family pictures, etc.  And, sewing for children only requires a small amount; much smaller than what’s required for adult clothes.  Plus you get to practice your sewing skills on a much smaller item and produce something that can be worn at the same time.  If you make any mistakes and need to make corrections, your seam ripper has fewer threads to remove.

If you have been to a clothing store recently you’ve notice that children’s clothes have become increasing expensive and equally difficult to find exactly what you want. That’s what happened with me.  My daughter wanted something for her son that was stylish, but not baby-ish to look like a little man.  And, she wanted it in purple.  As you can imagine, there’s not much on the market for little boys in purple.  Nor, did she have the time or money to drive all over town to find the perfect color purple in something a bit mannish.  So, off to the nearest fabric store for a pattern, fabric and other supplies.

While searching through the pattern catalog, we found more patterns for little girls than little boys and even more challenging to find suitable fabrics. This required thinking back on the type of fabrics used for menswear, but could be used for children in the fall.  Soft fabrics made with cottons or cotton blends such as broadcloth, corduroy, velvet, velour, and velveteen came to mind.

Sewing clothes for children also saves you money, especially when you’re the one doing the sewing and it’s fun. Additionally, since a child’s body has not fully developed, you don’t have to be concerned about sewing in darts or shaping seams.  Most seams in children’s clothes only require stitching in straight seams.

The same pattern can be used multiple times and each will look totally different; just by selecting a different color and choosing a fabric more appropriate for the next occasion.

Sewing clothes for children also counts as one of those special handmade items made with love for a special person by a special person that’s always remembered and treasured forever.