Jennifer from JCHandmade sent in this link to her new free PDF download for this adorable neighborly vest – I like the name neighborly and Jennifer has chosen this name deliberately – see her post with her ideas on how to be neighborly and charitable with this pattern.
Neighborly is a simple vest sized for a child, intended to keep them warm at their core while not overheating them during all the running about that kiddos do. interest is created by the wide boatneck collar knit in a contrasting yarn which is further accented by a large button. stitches are picked up around the collar’s edge and the piece is knit in the round from the top-down — there is no seaming whatsoever and only a bit of additional stitching at the hemline and weaving in the ends. this is a satisfying quick knit that is perfect for layering throughout the seasons.
One of my favourite clothing items to recycle is a cotton, ribbed, striped sweater. This works out well for me, since they seem to be very plentiful in the second hand circuit.
To make a toddler or child’s skirt, cut a wedge shape from the body of a cotton ribbed sweater, using the finished hem of the sweater as the narrow edge of the wedge (top of the skirt). I usually eyeball the size, but you could take a waist measurement or use another skirt as a pattern. Add 3 – 4″ at the top if you want to make a fold-over style waist.
Sew the skirt wrong sides together at the side seams, trim seams close to the stitching. Turn skirt inside out and stitch along the side seams approximately 1″ from the edge, enclosing the rough edges. (You could also serge it if you have one.)
Set your machine to a small, tight zig zag stitch. Fold the bottom edge of the skirt over approximately 1″ to the wrong side, and zig zag along the hem, pulling the sweater taut as you stitch. This creates a ruffle effect along the bottom.
Voila! You have a skirt that is very cozy and super cute. My daughter loves hers and they look really great over leggings or skinny jeans, especially for the colder weather. Good luck with your projects!
About the designer: Amy likes to make stuff. She believes in thrifting, improvising, recycling and making it up as you go along. She also believes that creating connects people and makes life so much sweeter. One-of-a-kind is her favorite kind and handmade is where it’s at. Currently, she spends a lot of time sewing handbags and accessories, aprons, baby and toddler clothing and some other random things as the spirit moves her. Website :: blog :: etsy store
