Lil' Critters Romper Dress
Last summer I received a request for another version of the Lil' Critters Romper Skirt/Dress by Puperita patterns. This one would follow its sister across the world to Australia to the same family. Of course I said yes - any excuse to make something cute and tiny!
I love this pattern as it contains a lot of cute features. The most obvious are the number of pockets - one on the front bib, two at the skirt side, and two on the back. If you use a contrast lining, they provide many opportunities for a pop of colour or some other fun print. The skirt is gently gathered in the centre at the front and back and the bodice is lined. The pattern offers sizes birth to 6 years - this version size three months.
Due to the size of the item, I was sure that I would be able to make it from fabric left over from previous projects. I needed just under half a metre for the shell and 0.3 metres for the lining. I found the left over cotton from my Vintage Shirt Dress which was perfect for the shell. I'm not entirely sure where the flowers came from but I think it may have been from another make for a tiny person. I had enough to squeeze out the bodice and pocket lining from various off cuts. I generally find mixing prints difficult and generally try to avoid it as I'm never sure if they work together. However, these two seem to work really well together. I like the contrast of the cream against the pink and the colours of the flowers don't compete with the polka dots.
Construction is simple and the pattern instructions are simple to follow. I didn't change any techniques except for making the patch pockets together to save time. I used my overlocker to finish the seams as the skirt and pocket seams are not enclosed. I swapped out buttons for snaps on the straps as the cream ones matched the lining perfectly which pleased me greatly. I was also super pleased with my top stitching throughout this make - it is very even around all the curved edges which isn't something I always achieve!
It's no secret that I am a fan of Puperita patterns for little ones and I'd highly recommend this one. It's an enjoyable way to spend a few hours.