Another Swingset Tunic and Skirt (pattern by Oliver + S), this time in size 5 for Clare.

Once again, fabric is double gauze from Heather Ross’ Far, Far Away collection.  Clare is rather enamoured with her skirt and has worn it a few times already, but isn’t so keen on the tunic – she thinks it is a little long. It probably is. Size 5 on my almost 7 year old daughter is rather large in this instance!  I did lengthen the skirt pattern a few inches, but the tunic is as per the pattern.

Now I need to get the two of them to wear their coordinating outfits at the same time. Die of the cuteness and the SOM* factor, anyone?

Despite having made functional buttonholes and buttons on the back, there is plenty of room to get the tunics on and off without ever undoing them. I found the construction for the tunics quite different to others I have made, but it all worked out well when the instructions were followed properly (read: there was some unpicking when I didn’t follow the instructions properly). I really like the skirt pattern – it is lined, and the elastic and drawstring casings are sewn between the fashion fabric and lining. Simple, comfortable and looks good.

Now to make Clare a multi-coloured dress for her birthday party on Sunday. She has decided that she is having a “colour” party, where the guests are to come dressed in one colour from head to toe. Of course, as the centre of attention she has decided that her outfit will be a rainbow one that includes all the colours. Fortuitously I have a girls’ dress pattern to test for a very clever and talented pattern designer.  Watch this space!  It has to be done before Saturday.  I have another three versions of this pattern cut out (another for Clare and two for Stella) so the sewing machine will be going full tilt this week.  Luckily I’m on holidays.

*SOM factor – the Sound of Music factor, or my irrational desire to dress my daughters (and even myself) in matching outfits.  If only I had some curtains that were dying to be cut up and then we could all pick some Eidelweiss and start singing harmonies….