Spring in Los Angeles is notorious for being hot during the day and cold at night. We’re talking 30-40 degree differences in just a few hours. Because of that, we Angelenos wear lots of layers that we can add or subtract throughout the day. I bought Annie some lightweight slub-knit hoodies from Old Navy to battle the cool mornings and nights, but before little miss, “It’s Not Beautiful Enough” could complain, I added a couple easy appliqués to the back of the hoodies. It’s easy to add an appliqué to any item of clothing, and sure to please picky fashionistas like Annabel.
Clothing item (nothing tight)
Fabric scraps (I used quilter scraps)
Shape patterns
Fabric marking pen/pencil
Seam gauge
Fabric scissors
Pins, needle, matching thread
For the first appliqué, I went with a simple star pattern. I began by tracing the pattern onto the back of my fabric.
Using my seam gauge, I marked half an inch all the way around the star, then cut the star out around the new line.
Now you’re going to sew a hem around the edge of the star to prevent the fabric from unraveling. Cut at all the points (the tips of the stars and the inside nooks) from the edge of the fabric to your original traced outline. Then fold over the fabric, pin in place, and sew down your hems.
Once you’ve finished your hems, figure out where you want to place your appliqué on your garment. I placed this one on the back, but I think it could have looked neat on the side, peeking out under her arm. Pin in place, then sew it down!
I also made a patchwork heart. This obviously took more time than the star, but Annie was thrilled with it!
I also used the opportunity to try my “E” appliqué stitch on my machine. It was much easier to use than I expected!
Annie was SO excited when I showed her the customized hoodies.
She said they were definitely “beautiful enough.”
I haven’t had to fight with her to put a hoodie on over her dresses and tanks, which is great!
Probably because I can’t get her to take the hoodies off.
Any questions, let me know. Have fun!
Lenora says:
Uh,oh,I see some definite model poses in there! Apparently, she is ready for America’s Next Top Model, Junior’s Edition!
Glenda says:
OMG! I see Miss Model/ Miss Fashionista! Love!!! You’re so crafty…if only… lol
Jordan says:
such a little model! So cute.
You need to make something for yourself with this DIY segment of yours!
Lee Cockrum says:
Very cute! I’d also use the wunder under iron on to help anchor it down.
Christina says:
Next Christmas I see an embroidery machine on your Christmas list to Santa! I love mine!
Nicole says:
You really should look into getting her into modeling! She is a natural!!