I love Peek-A-Boo’s Declan sewing pattern. It’s a simple polo shirt with loads of options for customising whilst still being a really wearable pattern. This time I’m trying sewing it in a woven fabric . . .
Fabric Choices
My Little Dude is currently obsessed with Batman and Spiderman so I treated him to some new character fat quarters.
I’ve sewn them into a pair of shorts by pairing the character fabric with some cheap woven cotton from my inherited fabric stash.
There was just the smallest scrap of character fabric leftover. Just enough to to cut the placket and collar of a polo shirt.
If I’d have had some black cotton Lycra fabric I may have used it for the rest of the shirt but my stretch fabric stash is sorely depleted and I’m trying to make use of what I have before buying more fabric. But also, I don’t think it would have looked right to have two different fabric’s for the shorts and matching shirt.
I’ve been thinking for a while now that Peek-A-Boo’s Declan could probably be sewn in woven fabric. I’ve already sewn the collar and placket in woven fabric. So I’ve decided to dive in and give it a try sewn completely from woven fabric.
Sewing Pattern
I’m using the Declan Pullover Sewing Pattern from Peek-a-Boo Patterns.
The Declan pattern is great for using up scraps because the placket looks so cute in a contrasting colour but it doesn’t use a lot of fabric.
The actual top itself is really simple and straightforward. I love sewing patterns that are basic but have a little bit of detailing, something “extra” about them instead of a plain and boring garment.
I’ve learnt from past mistakes that the hood and Henley options cannot be made with woven fabric. The neckband or hood needs to stretch to fit around the neck of the shirt. But the collar piece is strengthened with interfacing so there’s no stretch needed here at all.
Pattern Alterations
I sewed the pattern according to the instructions for the most part. I used the Day Camp Shorts sewing pattern from Peek-A-Boo Patterns and I thought the pocket on the top looked so stinking cute!
I had just enough scrap fabric leftover so I used the free Day Camp Top sewing pattern for the patch pocket.
Maybe I should have read the instructions on how to sew the pocket but I couldn’t be bothered. I just finished the edges with my overlocker and pressed them under. Then top stitched the pocket in place being careful to back stitch at each end of the stitching.
I like to stitch my seams on a standard sewing machine then overlock them for a neat and professional finish.
I like to use a twin needle to stitch my hems and waistbands. I think it looks so professional. And if I’ve got my measuring just spot on, it holds the overlocked edge in place perfectly, almost like a cover stitch machine.
I do hope my sewing project has inspired you to have a go at sewing clothes for the Little Dude in your own life.
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A Little Bit About Me . . .
Hey there I’m Bridie, a busy mum to two amazing humans, a spirited border collie puppy and a pair of sweet guinea pigs. We homestead in a cherished Edwardian terrace in not so sunny Lancashire, England.
When I’m not spending time with my children and menagerie, I’m usually to be found in my craft room creating and blogging or in the kitchen cooking up a big batch of something tasty. I’m always looking for thrifty hacks to save money on my crafts and recipes. Crafting doesn’t have to cost a fortune!
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