This is the time of year when you realize that your little ones have outgrown everything. Elora needs some new summer tops, and luckily I have the fabric and sewing skills to make that happen without a single trip to the shops! Yay for sewing!

Well I didn’t visit the shops, but they visited me. I recently received a shipment from Fenceline Fabrics, including these three lovelies. Even though it’s nowhere near the holidays, I couldn’t pass up the Reindeer fabric. Love that particular green and the gorgeous artwork. Maybe it will be a dress for Rora next year? The loopy low volume is for my stash, as was the Tiger Stripes yardage. Or so I thought.

I searched for sewing patterns for girl’s tops and came across a Wiksten pattern designed for babies and children. It can be sewn with or without sleeves and as a dress or tunic. The sleeveless tank version is the easiest and happens to take the least fabric too.

Well, I decided to make two! It was that much fun selecting fabrics.  I chose the 3-4 size, but used the 2-3 length, since Elora is on the petite size at age 3 1/2. By using a contrast fabric for the pockets and bindings, I was able to sew the body of the top from a 1/2 yard cut of fabric. This purple tulip print by Erin McMorris is one I bought last year. It’s perfect for a girl’s top, don’t you think?

In my opinion, the Wiksten Baby + Child Smock pattern is well-written and clearly illustrated. I never got lost. I would say this pattern is best for someone with some experience sewing clothing. For example, it helps if you know your favorite way to finish seams (I use French seams). The hardest part is the neck and armband bindings, since you’re working in a small area with lots of curves.

Ta da! A swingy, cheerful summer top. This shape will look great with pants or with shorts. I think she’ll get lots of wear out of them!

And here it is on! Elora was quite happy to have her picture taken in her favorite new top. This was her first and completely natural pose, haha!

Those big, bold pockets are super popular with little ones. Elora commented on them while the tops were still under construction. You can see that the pockets wrap around the sides, which gives this top lots of character. Well, that and the tiger stripe cats. Can’t resist those!

I know, she is really, over-the-top adorable.

Hmm, and also possibly done being photographed?

Well, we shall go outside and play. The sunshine is calling!

I’m really glad I tried this new-to-me pattern. Sewing clothes for little girls is quite a pleasure.