Pattern Review ~ Frida
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Kathie’s an artist with a life full of really interesting and “Wow!” endeavors. Don’t miss Kathie’s intro with more links for you to explore, and visit the Ramonster Blog for YOUR CHANCE TO WIN the Frida tunic Kathie made for her review today!
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| Description | |||
| Frida by Modkid is a tunic style dress and shirt with headscarf. From the pattern text: “Loosely inspired by a Mexican housedress, Frida is feminine, comfy and fun! Open side vents make it light and airy during warmer months and perfect for layering on cooler months.”
The pattern gives you the option to sew up either a short tunic version, a longer dress or a dress with added bottom ruffle. It also allows for playing around a bit with the sleeve style. I opted for the tunic style shirt, with the flared sleeve.
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| Materials | |||
| Amount of fabric varies on which style is chosen (dress or tunic), but for what I sewed up (tunic shirt in a size six/seven children’s) it asked for 1 yard of fabric, ½ yard of lining material. The one yard of fabric includes the pocket and bottom contrast band, however, which they seem to encourage you to switch up and play with by using contrasting/complimentary fabrics.
The pattern also calls for 1 package ¼” wide elastic, although all you really need is about 4 inches. |
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| Fabric Recommendations | |||
| They suggest “quilting weight cottons, light-to-medium weight decorator fabrics, lightweight denims, linens and muslins, 44”/45” wide.”
I used a cotton blend that I’ve used for kids clothes a bunch that has sort of a linen like drape, but doesn’t wrinkle as much as linen. I could really see the tunic or dress being awesome sewn up in super duper lightweight cotton, like a batiste, since the top is already lined you could get away with seriously sheer fabrics. With the side vents that are part of the design it seems like that would make for a garment for our hotter than hades summers down here in the southland. |
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| Overall Design |  |
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| I think that the tunic is pretty dang cute. It really does have kind of a sweet vintage Mexican vibe, although the fabrics chosen for the cover shoot for the pattern kind of take away from the classic-ness of the cut, in my opinion. (I am not a fan of going overboard mixing and matching prints. I like to keep the fabrics simple and let the details speak for themselves. But thatz just how I roll, yo.) I did end up feeling like the “flared” sleeve was a bit much, but it would be super easy to just cut the pattern down so that it didn’t stick out quite as much from the shoulder.
Front detail with cap sleeves & ties. |
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| Written Instructions | |
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| The instructions in the pattern were great. Very thorough and clear. More so than what I’m used to working with, although for the sake of full disclosure I’m notoriously bad at following pattern directions anyway. After years of sewing in a more industrial format, I have a certain language of sewing techniques that I’m particularly attached to, and I tend to skip lots of steps in direction books when I think I can clearly see my way to the finished product. Sometimes this is great. Sometimes I end up doing a lot of seam ripping when I get a little ahead of myself. Anyway, enough about me. I followed the directions in this pattern as best I could, and I found them way easier to understand and negotiate than most patterns that you would get from the big pattern companies. There’s something to be said for having an entire booklet printed up to walk you through one children’s shirt pattern. It makes it all sort of dummy proof.
Pattern booklet.
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| Diagrams / Images | |
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| Lots of diagrams and images to guide you. Children’s patterns are, in general, pretty easy to navigate and assemble. But it’s always nice to have extra pictures to expedite your process so that you don’t end up feeling like you’re reinventing the wheel every time you sit down with a new pattern. |
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| Pattern Pieces | |
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| There are 6 pattern pieces (bodice, sleeve, skirt, hem band, ties and pocket) plus an elastic guide piece. All were clearly marked as to size markings, etc. |
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| Overall Level of Difficulty | Confident Beginner |
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| This wasn’t the simplest item of clothing I’ve ever sewn, but it certainly wasn’t difficult. Familiarity with certain techniques like inserting elastic into a casing, clipping and turning, and pressing down seam allowances come in handy, but there is nothing in the pattern that I would deem daunting or challenging.
Back view. |
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| Tips + Modifications |
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| ~ For the tunic I chose to use the same fabric for the bodice, skirt and hem band, and then to play around with contrast in the lining and pocket fabric matching up with some embroidery I did on the bodice. I also block printed a wood grain print onto the hem band for a little texture without too much contrast.
Block printing the hem band. ~ For the hem band on the bottom of the tunic, the pattern has you fold it in half before it is sewn to the bottom of the skirt piece. I chose instead to sew one side of the hem band to the bottom of the skirt piece, and then turn and finish the bottom of the hem band with a regular 1” hem. I prefer this for two reasons; one, because it allows for a slightly wider hem band, which I thought would look good with the wood grain print I was using and, two, I’ve never been a big fan of a stiff looking hem band at the bottom of anything. I like the bottom of any shirt or dress to hang with as much fluidity as the rest of the garment as opposed to looking more rigid. Opting out of folding the hem band in half before sewing it on I felt would keep the drape of the garment a little softer.
Hem band & pocket detail. ~ One other modification I think I would choose to make if I were to re-make this pattern would be in regard to the ties that close the side vents of the tunic. The pattern calls for 4 separate pieces to be cut for 4 separate ties. Each pattern piece is then ironed down from either side and the ironed closed, ala bias tape. This was time consuming and in my opinion the same effect could have been achieved by cutting and sewing one long piece, then turning and topstitching the piece as a tube, then cutting into fourths and finishing. |
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| Conclusion | |||
| I thought this was a sweet, simple pattern for a little girl. The head scarf addition is super cute, too. It’s too bad my daughter won’t wear anything that isn’t made out of jersey or terrycloth (I’m not kidding. Jersey or terrycloth. That’s it.)
I enjoyed working with such a nicely laid out pattern with big colorful images and instructions. What’s not to like about that? Easy peasy.
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[tags]sewing pattern review, Frida tunic dress & shirt pattern review, dress pattern review, shirt pattern review, kid’s dress pattern review, kid’s shirt pattern review, Modkid pattern, Modkid Frida sewing pattern, Modkid dress pattern review, Modkid shirt pattern review[/tags]
387 Responses to “Pattern Review ~ Frida”
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Cute top. I recently saw this sewn with a modification in the sleeve. It had elastic making it more of a cap sleeve. I’m not sure if the pattern suggests this but I think it adds a lot to the look of the tunic. I would love to have this pattern in my collection.
Super cute tunic. I love the embroidery on the top. I also have issues with mixing and matching crazy prints. I prefer the simpler look, with a few details to make it pop. Great review! Thanks!
Very cute!!
I love the pocket! Nice size for filling with colorful pebbles and feathers and all the litle treasures little girls love to collect.
This is adorable. I think I wore one very similar in the early 70′s as a third grader!
I just made this same top last week, too. I followed the instructions, though I usually don’t as I’ve been sewing for years, and I found them very thorough with a few slightly different techniques in the construction that were easy to handle.
I did opt to put elastic in the sleeves-just a little since my granddaughter doesn’t light tight sleeves- and I really thought it looks cuter-it kind of tames down the shoulder a bit. I used a couple of coordinating fabrics from Jay McCarroll’s line for Free Spirit and was super pleased with the results!
Thank you for this review! I was encouraged to hear of the detailed instructions since I am still learning techniques. I will be checking out their patterns!
Love the look of the fabric, and the color combos, very cute top!
I love the hem block-printing. A great way to personalize the whole deal. Also loved to hear about your mods, regarding the bias tape ties.
Thanks for the review. I have this pattern sitting waiting for me to do something with it and it is nice to know all went well when you made it. Cute embroidery on the top!
wow cute
It’s adorable – I love the detail at the neckline, and how smart is that block printing??? SO cool!
So cute and would love to add the pattern to my collection. The block printing is such a cool idea.
This is just so cute! Wish I had a girl…
That is the prettiest little top. Likes almost within my sewing ability too…
So cute, love the block print detail. Awesome.
Great review! I would love to try this pattern for my girls. I am not so intimidated after reading this. thanks
This is a great review. Awesome job on the shirt.
Great review!
That is adorable. I love the block printing. Never thought to do that before. Very cool.
Too cute! Thanks for the pattern review. I have this pattern and hadn’t gotten around to making it yet – I think you have inspired me to do so!
I like the crisp edges of the neckline and sleeves. I could see this tunic done in a sweet floral, too.
This is adorable.The new additions to the fabric collection will be great to use here
Super cute top, and I love the frankness of the review. I can’t follow big name brand patterns without my seam ripper in hand and lots of frustration. It’s nice to know that instructions like these (Frida) are published for those of us that just want the straight forward no non-sense way to stitch it up and do it right without abusing the seam ripper!
This is adorable… The new fabric for sale would great to use here.
I like the modification at the hem, what a great idea to use wood grain print for the hem band!
Ooh I love your modifications, my daughter would love this dress!
Lovely tunic and a great review – I’ll add it to my loooonnnnnngggg list of things I’d love to make one day!
I love the embroidery …. that really makes the outfit I think. What a wonderfully well written review
I think I would prefer more of a capped sleeve too …
What a lovely little pattern! The embroidery is to die for too! Thank you for such a great review!
so adorable. looks perfectly comftorable. the fabric so cute. definetly a project that i’ll try. thank u.
Fantastic review of a super cute shirt
oh very cute
thanks for the review, Ithink this pattern would look nice on my niece
now if only i had a daughter…
super cute shirt!
The woodblock print at the bottom does it for me. I will have to check this out for my sweet goddaughter’s 2nd birthday!
Great review! Thanks for the tips…it looks great!
Great review! Looking at the pattern cover it’s not one I would choose but with the fabric and modifications you made, adorable! Loving the mexican feel.
What a sweet little top… I do agree I would probably take a bit of the flare away from the sleeves but overall lovely.
Wow! I like your suggestions and your fabric choices really do show off the classic style of the tunic. I’m more inclined to purchase the pattern since your review simplifies a few points. Thanks!
This top is great! I was surprised to learn the bottom piece was block printed… great idea and it works well with the design of the top and the other fabrics.
That’s something that I might want to try and looks complicated enough that I would be proud of myself for finishing it
I love this tunic. It’s so lovely.
Just Darling! I wonder if the side ties could be done away with? Any thoughts?
Sonja
soduel.blogspot.com
I’ve seen this on other blogs and love how you have made the pattern – I’m into simple colours with a little detial too! Love the butterfly accents!
the block printing is GENIUS! this is such an adorable pattern
This is the sweetest little top. I could just see my 8 year old daughter wearing this.
http://www.sewingwithtrudy.blogspot.com
I really like this pattern and was thinking about getting it because I have three Granddaughters, so it would be used to death! Great review, Kathi, you sold me!
How hard would it be to upsize for Mama and Grandmama?
cute cute cute! I see visions of me trying to make this for my nieces!
This is so adorable!
Thanks for sharing the pattern review! I love the top! It looks like a fun project. I’ll have to add it to my ever growing list of projects to purchase.
Very cute! I’ve been looking for a good first clothing project to sew for my daughter, and this might be just the ticket! Glad to hear it wasn’t too tricky and that the directions were well-written.
Cute top – if I ever made it for my daughter I think I’d leave the sleeve off all together and just have it as a sleeveless tunic. Love the butterfly embroidery and the wood block printing on your hem band. Great tutorial – thanks!
Cute!
Cute, cute top that doesn’t look too difficult to make!
I think I could do this one. Thanks for the great review! Love the top.
So cute! I love, love, love the block printing detail. I need to learn how to do it.
so cute! thanks for the review!
Too cute for words, what a great pattern review, and such wonderful detailing on the dress.
I love the capped sleeves. I was humming and haaing about which Modkid pattern to use for my niece, but after this review, I think I’ll choose this one. THANKS!
Looks like a keeper. I just started getting back into sewing children’s clothes for my granddaughter. Great review!
This top is super cute! Makes me wish I had a girl! (I have a housefull of BOYS!)
Really Cute!! I have got to work on my clothes sewing skills so I can make cute little clothes!!
What a fun read! And great tip about the bias tape modification… I’ll be putting that gem to use today! You’ve inspired me to sew something for my little girl
THANKS!
Wonderful review. I like the idea of being a “confident beginner” – it makes the pattern seem less daunting.
very cute! I think I could even do this one!
I love your version. Yeah the sleeves are a bit flared. I love how you barked the bottom hem piece!
Thanks for the thorough review! Your tunic turned out very cute.
What a wonderful talent you have! Thinking to do the wood block printing for around the bottom! I like the look of these patterns, a bohemian chic look that passes the test of time. I sewed a bit when my children were little, but with six kids, time was limited! Now, I hope to sew for the grandkids….
Thanks for this great review. Seeing the pattern made up in a fabric without all the print, makes the pattern look more impressive.
Thank you for the review. I can’t wait to try one of the Modkid patterns.
That pocket is too cute! Makes me wish my girls were still small enough for this adorable shirt. I might try to modify it to make a grown up version.
Thanks for the review. I’d just noticed these modkid patterns and was wondering how they sew up. Love your embroidery and stamping. They really make the top special!
What a cute pattern. Definitely reminds me of the sweet Mexican dresses we wore when we were little. Thanks for this review!
Great review and adorable top!
Next stop is the shop to buy this pattern after your review. The cover fabrics on pattern made me pass this over, but after seeing your lovely take and review I see the timelessness!
Thanks again.
such a cute top! wish i had one for myself.
I am always looking for simple, pretty dress/top patterns for my granddaughters. I love Frida..and it is suitable for dressing up or dressing down! The embroidery touch is lovely.
Love the woodgrain blocking you did for the fabric… and I agree on the cap sleep… maybe a bit narrower would be better? Overall, a great pattern for a hot summer! Thanks for sharing!
I love the look and the fact that a “confident beginner” can make it as well! I have some friends to show this to now!
Thanks for the review. Good to know the instructions are so detailed. I’m definitely a ‘confident beginner’ (at times overconfident) so I appreciate that.
I think this was an excellent review! I think I could actually do it… as a semi-confident beginner. Also, wow! on the block printing! Great addition!
I can’t wait to have kids so I can make them clothes! I love this top
Sweet … stylish … and cooling for summer. Any little girl would look great in this. And I love the butterflies on the yoke. Darling!!
Very cute! I like the way yours turned out. I have this pattern waiting for me – good to know that it’s pretty straightforward. I need to get on it!
Great review!! I love the top, but would probably add some elastic to the sleeves as well! I love the block printing as well. Such a great idea!
Lovely fabric choices. I think I would like the sleeves gathered as the first commenter suggested.
Too cute! I can’t wait for my baby girl to be a little girl and make this! Love all the finishing details.
I absolutely love this little tunic and think my daughter would too!
Thanks for this pattern review. It looks like a great top to make.
So cute! Sometimes I wish I was having a little girl instead of a little boy, with all the cute girl clothes to be made.
Adorable! This reminds me of a dress/tunic I received as a gift as a child. I wore it as often as I could get away with and then was jealous of my sister who wore hers at the same time AND THEN mine after I outgrew it.
I love what you did with the pattern. What a cute top!
I love this top! so simple yet it has cute details.
Very cute pattern. I think the pattern book is a great idea. I would probably need the extra explanations.
Lovely version of this pattern. Thanks for the review!!
I am not so fond of th “flyaway” sleeves of this. Otherwise, the rest of it is pretty cute.
Wish I had more time to make (everything). =)
Very cute shirt! I think I’ll make the sleeves a bit smaller like you suggested – my daughter’s pretty tiny, and I think the sleeves would be too much for her small frame.
This has got my daughter’s name written all over it. I think I’m going to have to pick this one up and give it a shot.
Great top! I love it. I have beautiful dreams of being able to create things like this for my new daughter! I just started sewing several months ago and love trying out new patterns for her already!
Thanks for the post on Simple Sewing for Baby. Didn’t know about this book!! And the fabric is great too!!
That is a very cute dress/smock pattern! I like the embroidery that you did on the bodice. So pretty!
That tunic would be very cute in some Wildwood fabric by Erin McMorris!
Love it! The orange ties are cute. Can I modify this pattern and make one for me?
What a great looking top/dress. My 5yo would love the dress version in one of the new Charisma fabrics!
I really like the dress pattern more than the tunic – but your tunic turned out cute! Might have to give this one a try one day for my neice.
I just love these pattern reviews. As a new sewer, it really helps me select patterns that i won’t fail at!
I love tunics on little girls! What a cute pattern!
Very cute! I agree with the sleeves being a little too. . . something. Otherwise a great pattern!
I love the addition of the wood grain block printing! Much more subtle than using a different fabric, but with a similar effect.
Great review. I agree with you on the sleeves. I think they are a bit over the top and if I ever get around to making this pattern, I think I would shorten them up a bit or take them off all together. I love the block printing you did to add your own uniqueness to the shirt, it gives it just the right amount of detail.
PS: I read your blog and your hilarious… way to race through a mud pit!
I love this pattern! And I totally agree with an above ‘commenter” who said to add elastic to the sleeves, I’d love to try that!
What a sweet top! I’m glad to know that even a beginner can try their hand at it–I am definitely in the beginner category. This would be a lovely addition to my toddlers wardrobe–and I have a thrifted sheet that might do the trick. Thanks for the review.
cute top, and really great review!
This top is adorable! I love the little details you added! The review is concise, but filled with a humor that is uniquely you!
Very cute, think I’ll get this one for Sophie!
Cute top! Its so nice to see young girls clothes that are creative and age appropriate.
These are so cute!! I don’t know any young girls that age to make it for them, but the details are fantastic!
This tunic reminds me of Pippi Longstocking
Very cute!
Love the pattern!! It would look great on my little one. Think I will have to try this one!!!
kcpearls at yahoo.com
I am LOVING the butterflies!
This is absolutely adorable! Thank you so much for taking the time to review it for all of us. Your butterfly embroidery is a wonderful detail!
This is adorable! I would love to give this a try when my little girl gets older!
Great review — thank you! I prefer your version to the hodge-podge fabric mix they used on the pattern packaging. Really sweet combination of simple fabric and embroidery.
Oooooh how cute! I can hardly wait to make this for my little girl and I’m sure I’ll be hearing from her friends’ mothers wanting me to make similar outfits for their little ones.
Super cute! My girls would look adorable in this–although I’m interested in seeing a modification on the sleeve another commenter mentioned. My 3-year-old is so petite (thin enough to wear her 1-year-old sisters pants) the sleeves may end up looking more like wings on her! Great review!
I’ve never heard of block printing on fabric–I love the result! It adds a gorgeous design element to the tunic. Thanks for sharing!
Adorable! Very retro looking, it’s very similar to the little smocks I wore in jr. high. The little head scarf adds to that retro feel. My little chicks will love this one.
I love this! You did a great job reviewing it. Sometimes you just need someone else to tell you whether or not its worth trying. And the pictures compliment this wonderfully! Thanks!
darling! I might have to make one of these for ME!
that is so cute!!!!, just for an active girl!!!
I love this review, and I love the pattern. Too bad I don’t know any kids the right age to make it and have them reject it (although they would probably have to be mine for the second part to be true–this is such a great look!). Please have more similar reviews, I really really liked this one.
Cute! Cute! Cute! Love the pocket, too! I would love to make this for my two little girls!
I love that fabric. What a nice choice. That pocket is so cute.
Super cute. I am always anxious to try new outfits for my kiddo and while I won’t be doing any of the fancy embroidery or wood block printing–sheesh, extra super props to you!–I do love this pattern!
Very cute top. I love how the wings of the butterfly enhance the v of the neckline.
Great review! I thought it was fun you were giving away the item you reviewed! I have never seen the wood block technique. Very cool. Thanks for your insights.
Great post! I love the little sleeves that look like wings! will adapt that on a pattern for adults!
Thanks for the great review!
Cute top! I am glad you chose simple fabrics, because I would not normally want this pattern because the fabrics on the models are so distracting. Your design helps me see the lines of the tunic. I appreciate the review, and love your tips about the hem and the ties. Beautiful embroidery!
Cute summer shirt…..not sure about the sleeves though, I think I would either reduce the size or modify it and leave them off.
Cute top! I wish they had as many cute boy patterns as they do girl patterns.
love your details of the butterfly and fabric print.
What a cute pattern! Thanks for your review!
Wow, these are cute. Can’t wait to have daughters and then try making this pattern. Or at least a niece. Soooo cute!
What a lovely pattern! I habe to find someone to sew it for…
This is a cute top. Someday I will have a granddaughter to sew for! Girls clothes are always so cute!
The top reminds me of tops my mother made for me in the 1970s. Very light and cool and fluttery. I think a little girl playing in the Summer heat would love how it feels.
I am not sure why there is a tie under the arm though. I think that might be annoying after a bit. Is that some kind of feature to make it fit better?
I really like the dress version of this. I would use the pink and yellow wildwood to make this for my 15 month old…ole!
Thanks for this great review – I’ve wondered about the ModKid patterns and I appreciate an honest review!
loved the block printed hem band – and I always loved wearing head scarfs when I was a girl – kept the hair off my face and were no;t as hard as headbands – my parents always teased that they were the reason my ears stuck out.
This is a cute top, but I do agree with the sleeves being a bit much. Thanks for the review!
I love the way your top turned out! I’ve hesitated to buy this pattern but now I think I’m going to have to! It would look so cute in the new carnival prints out today.
Too Cute! I want to make one for both of my daughters. They would look adorable in this shirt. My oldest would love gathering things to put in the pocket!
I love the block printing tip – it is something i am now dying to try out!
Thanks for all the great tips. I am just getting into sewing and have yet to take too much liberty in changing patterns…call me scared that I am gonna ruin it!
Your suggestions gave me the confidence I need to branch out on the next pattern I tackle. Thanks!
Super cute top. And seems like embellishments and design options could make limitless different tops.
I just discovered these patterns while reading everyone’s Quilt Market reviews and I thought they were adorable, so this review is perfectly timed! Definitely have to check this one out.
Such a cute pattern. Great summer dress. I think I will try it for my girl. Thanks for sharing.
So adorable! Wish I had someone to sew this for!!
Absolutely love the pocket…..great idea to stash those secrets!
what a precious pattern! simply adore it!
Cute, cute top! Cute girl too!
It’s so darling! Thanks for a great, thorough review!
I love the blue and orange together…they compliment each other so well. And the block printing adds great texture and depth to the tunic. I love it!
Excellent review on the pattern. I do agree that the sleeves are slightly “wingish” and maybe could use a modification. Otherwise I think this is a perfect summer shirt.
Your shirt turned out really cute. I liked the idea of modifing the same fabric for the band at the bottom.
I love this pattern! Can’t wait to make it for my little one.
I love the pocket! Anything that’s cute but still provides storage is my kind of look!
Very cute! I agree about the sleeves. I wonder if they would ruffle up more in a drapier fabric. That would be cute. Otherwise, I think I would shorten them.
Thanks for the very informative review!
Beautiful!
How cute! I love this tunic!
This is a cute little top. Thanks for the review. I’ll have to check it out for my daughter. I like the look of the block printed fabric- it adds so much to the simple top.
Awesome top and L-O-V-E the blockprinting!! That just makes the top for me!
I’m sooo excited about the Sinple Sewing for Babies book! Hoping to get some wonderful inspiration for my new Etsy shop. Right now I’m just doing booties, but I hope to add some other baby items soon! I just finished up a 3 piece gift-set for the Giveaway Day!! Can’t wait to see what other people are giving away too
Love this pattern! I’d like to try it in a knit some time.
I just love the print on the hem of the tunic. Very cute. Thank you for the concise and honest review!
Very cute top. I am loving the embroidered part, it adds a huge amount of detail! THanks for the review!
OH MY! I think that this pattern is going on my DEFINITE list right way! So sweet and so many ways to really doll it up!
what a great top, thanks for the review.
~kelly
love thetop but the sleaves are a little too much for me. wouldhave to tone them down a bit.
too cute! i love the detailing!
I love this pattern and can’t wait to try it. I have three nieces and can see each of them wearing one of the variations. Thanks for the commenters who suggested a bit of elastic in the sleeve – that adds even more possibilities.
Karen
Awesome review! I ADORE the wood grain fabric : ) How cute!
Yay for idiot proof instructions!
Oh, this is really cute, I love the fabric choices that Kathie made much better than the pattern choices. And I love the idea of the more capped sleeves that the first commenter suggested. I don’t think I’m even a confident beginner yet, but once I’m there I’d love to give this a shot.
I can’t wait to try this!! I need super clear instructions and this sounds perfect. Great review!
Too cute! I wore something similar when I was little and loved it so much I wore it out. Looks like I will have to pick up the pattern and make some for the DGDs….
This is such a cute pattern and unique. I sure hope my next grandchild is a girl. I am
collecting a lot of girl patterns!
What an adorable top! Thank you for the review. I especially love your addition of the block print border. Definitely an idea I would use for other projects as well.
Cute top, but I agree that the sleeves are a bit much. I’d love to see the same top with a cap sleeve as another commenter suggested.
Cute! My 9yo would love the tunic, my 4 yo the dress. I’m not sure I have the skill yet to pull it off, but I love the idea and will file it away for the future.
That is so cute! I love the embroidered butterflies. Great review!
The sleeves on this pattern are not quite my cup of tea, but I think the rest of it could be quite cute!
I’ve never read pattern reviews before, and I must say, I’m going to start now! The pattern is adorable, obviously, and the tips and insight were great.
That is so cute and it seems so much easier once someone talks you through it! Thanks for the review and the great find of a cute top for girls.
I love tunic style tops on my girls. I will have to get this pattern to make some for the summer!
How cute! Now if only I could convince my 3-yr-old that wearing something mama made is fun…
Too cute! I love the butterflies and the contrasting pocket. Thanks for sharing this review. I would have thought this was way beyond me, but I’m definitely a confident beginner, so I’ll give it a shot.
So Awesome! I look forward to working on this with my girls. thank you!!
I think this is beautiful and I can think of a number of nieces who would look beautiful in it (I only have boys). I agree that the flared sleeve could be cut back a little. I appreciate a really good review. Thanks.
Excellent review and suggestions for the pattern! The only thing I would like to know more about are the side vents…it seems like it would be annoying to have ribbons tied right there…
So cute! Great review.
Very Cute! I need to make one of these for my daughter!
Thanks for doing such good review. It’s always nice to have a better on idea on how things will work out. I’ve had some problems with some instructions that you get with clothing patterns.
I am so in love with this pattern, after the review now im convinced I need to order it tomake for my girls.. I really want a mommy sized one to come out
Love this! We’re pregnant with number 2 right now – it would be FUN FUN FUN to have a girl this next round – way too many cute things to sew!!
I love this blog! I have found so many wonderful ideas and projects; I sure hope I get to all of them!
I hope to have a girl next, so I can make this adorable tunic— if not, I have plenty of friends with daughters!
Thanks so much for all you do!
Thanks for the review, I love your little details on the hem, the embroidery and the cute pocket in a different color.
This cute versatile pattern has so many possibilities in the way you could coordinate fabrics. I love it!
What a great pattern. I love the block printing, too. This looks like a very versatile pattern to have in your collection. I think I’ll try my hand at it!
Very cute tunic! My daughter would love this.
Definitely something I would like to tackle. Especially when you use the term dummy proof.
The thorough review makes me want to get started on this for my daughter…but at 6mons she is not ready yet. Maybe I will make one first for a neighbor kid.
I love your term “confident beginner.” I’m not sure I’m there yet, but getting closer all the time!
At first I really did not like the look of this. After reading your full review and seeing the top from different angles and reading your mods (block printing? genius.) I’m still working on seeing ways to personalize/modify patterns. This was really great to read, and I’m coming around to liking it- with slightly less flared sleeves.
Thanks kathie
~Em
ooh, very cute…I will most certainly add this to my wishlist.
thanks for the great review. makes the thought of making clothes a little less scary for me
Really cute and original!
Cute top – LOVE your printing the fabric! Well thought out review – thanks!
I am so impressed with your block printing! WOW!
very cute! i love the idea of block-printing fabric to use in a pattern.
Very cute!! Love the pocket!! Thanks for the review!
this pattern is just adorable.
Cute!
I have a little girl due in July and can’t wait to make her cute clothes like these. The comment about the drape of the hem was very helpful. Maybe I will practice by making one of these for my niece.
Great review and I am so curious to try the block printing on fabric technique.
amazing instructions! Thanks so much
Jane
Very cute top! Love the block printing idea!
Okay, the wood block print at the bottom of the tunic – genius! Such a great idea to try!!
Super cute and I like that you said the pattern is dummy proof. I hate patterns from the “big manufacturers” because I am so new to sewing and most times don’t have a clue what is being described. I end up ripping a TON of seems. Thanks.
What a cute pattern! I LOVE your version of it. The embroidery is stunning!
Such a cute top and great material combos! I love the added touch of embroidery!
It’s adorable – I love the detail at the neckline! Thanks for sharing your experience with us, I’m thinking about buying the pattern and make it to my nieces as a birthday gift!!!
I’ve got this pattern traced out and have been looking for the perfect fabric. Thanks for the great review.
These are really cute, but I just don’t think I am brave enough to try making clothing yet!
Love the woodgrain on the bottom. Terrific fabric choices.
Wow, the constrasting lining and simplicity of the fabric are stunning! Thanks so much for the helpful tips and creative inspirations. I’d love to try this pattern as I work towards being a Confident Beginner!
That’s a really cute pattern! I have to say I really enjoyed reading the modification of the fabric! I never would have thought of block printing fabric to add interest – you’ve opened up a whole new world of ideas and possiblities for me! Thanks!
I like your simpler choice of fabric as well. I agree that the flared sleeve is a bit much. It looks like a nice pattern booklet though.
Perfect pattern for a great summer dress. My darling grandaughters, 5 and 3, would look even more darling with this done in dress or shirt. The book up for giveaway would help a poor Grandma keep up with her handmade items for the girls. Thanks for a great blog.
Love the light blue version with the orange embroidered butterfly. Great choice of fabrics and colors! Very inspirational.
Thank you,
Teresa
very cute, and what a helpful review! i love the fabric you used!
Very cute and good job. I especially like the embroidery you put on your version. The sleeves are a little crazy for my taste but my little girl probably would like them in a few years (she is 1 right now). Thanks for the review!
I may just need to purchase that pattern! So cute.
thanks for the great review! i just got this pattern. great to see it in more muted shades! love the embroidery.
That is really adorable!
Great review, Kathie! You have added some great touches with the embroidery and block printing. The tunic style is a perfect fit for my niece’s sense of fashion (and her mom’s, my sister), so now I have a great idea for a birthday gift!
AAAAAAK! Not only is this suuuuuper cute, but your review has me SOLD!! I’m quite convinced I need to make this for my niece!
I’m reassured reading thing– this is really cute, and looks way harder than beginner projects, but the prospect of an entire booklet to explain makes me more confident
I love all the detail and her little hand in that pocket is precious! Great job
What a great review. You covered many of the questions I had. Thank you so much!
Ditto on the block printing at the hem. I never would have thought to do that!
I showed the pattern to my opinionated 8 year old- she didn’t care much for the sleeves but liked the rest. Love the fabric choice for this review, too.
Thanks for the review. You did a great job with it! Super cute! Love the butterflies and love the lining!! I think I’m going to try it this weekend.
Love the color and fabric combo as well as the butterflies. I especially love the pocket and think the sleeves would be super cute as little cap sleeves that mimic the pocket. Cute!
Very cute. I love the block printing idea!
I LOVE your version of this top! Great job!
Hi – I have a new grandbaby so I am just getting back into sewing and have made my first two quilts. These are some great new patterns for kids and I can’t wait to start making clothing.
I love the orange contrast you used. In some ways I would think to buy the pattern more if YOUR picture was on the cover! (Because I too get overwelmed by too many busy fabrics). Yours show up the design really well.
Oh my! This is seriously adorable…I want this immediately! I want to do one in red with some sweet folky ribbon! Love love love the block printing along the bottom! Great touch:)
That is an adorable tunic. I think I might just have to give this pattern a try. I am sure my daughter would love it. I love the tought of using a really great simple material on it.
A very cute pattern for sure! I showed it to my daughter, and she would love it, although “with no pocket!”
I love how the simplicity of the fabric draws attention to the subtle v-neck detail that I hadn’t find before. Thanks for the great review.
Thanks for the review- your version is adorable!
Great review… so detailed and informative. I agree with you about the sleeves. But that can be the fun part about sewing… making something your own with a little tweak here and there…
This is just too cute, my darling daughter has insisted she’ll need at least seven so she can wear one everyday of week.
I really like the sleeves +)
I love the wood printing on the bottom. I may try this pattern because you said it was dummy proof.
I so wish I had little girls to sew for!
I love what you did with this pattern. Your fabric choice, the woodgrain (my mom has a thing for woodgrain-wants to paint it on every wall she comes in contact with-but I haven’t seen it on a garment before), and your hem modification as well.
Really, really cute. Perfect for summer!
I’m with you on the sleeve! A little cap sleeve would look super cute. I love the fabric colours and your printing.
Great review and great interpretation of the pattern.
Great review and nice job with the wood block print- very creative.
Cute patterns. I love the headscarfs—a very retro look for little kids!
Very cute, I love how you did yours. Great review makes me think that even I, a beginner, could make this for my daughter. Thanks for sharing!
What a cute shirt. I like the look of the sleeve, especially for a child.
Great fabric and I love the embroidery!
I love the pocket! Just the right touch:)
This top is super adorable. My niece would just love it!! Thanks for the review.
i am a sewing newbie…this pattern makes me feel like maybe i need to be a bit more confident and try it out! my daughter would look adorable in it!
What a great idea to block print for the contrast! I’ll have to try it soon!
Why oh why are girl’s clothes so much cuter than boy’s clothes???? Why???
This is adorable and, as evidenced by my whining, envy-inducing.
These look fantastic and really versatile … I can absolutely see my girls wearing these … that top is girly but still functional!! A great combo for the active but definitely girly girl!
i want to go make one right now. so cute!
Cute, cute, cute
I have never heard of ModKid patterns but this is great! Love the bold prints chosen as well. The inspiration of the embellishments is great and I LOVE the idea of creating a block print. I’ve been wanting to try that out ever since I discovered Lotta Jansdotter’s work. I’ll be looking more into this for sure, thanks for sharing!
Pretty dang cute indeed. If I had a girl I would totally make this.
I put this immediately on my wish list…where have these patterns been hiding!
I’m always looking for inspiration and this was great. Thanks for the review and for sharing your creative juices. I love the wood block printing and the sweet embroidery you did!
This reminds me of the clothes my mom made for me as a kid in the 70′s. Love it!
I think your version is so much better than the one shown on the cover design. I like your simpler approach with the fabric choice while personalizing it so creatively.
This is adorable! Such a grown up look yet totally appropriate for the littlest girls.
Simply adorable!
I want to make this right now, it is so stinkin’ cute!! Love this blog!
wow such a detailed review thank you , I came over to enter the book giveaway. But I love this pattern as well, I think I would like the sleeves capped or maybe something different done with the arms like suggested but overall it’s great.
Neat review! I like the simple, cool fabric you have used and the embroidery.
thanks for the review – it really turned out cute! I’m a little nervous to try these patterns, so it’s great to read reviews and tester tips! Great job!
This is truly so cute – I’ll have to ask my daughter if she needs a top….
SUPER cute! I’m pregnant, and due in Oct. If I have a girl, this is what she’ll wear next summer!
I love the printing on the fabric… i am a prinmaker and a quilter and have just started experimenting with mixing the two media!
This pattern looks so cute! I can’t wait to make something like that for my little girl (once she gets a bit bigger!)
Love this tunic, the fabric is really great!
If any of my friends had girls I would totally make one of these! So cute!
I wish I had a little one to sew for!
so adorable!
Have been debating getting this pattern – after reading all your tips and tricks, I am going to do so! Thanks for all your insight
Hoping to win the book – took a break last night and ran to B&N to check it out in person…oh….drool, drool – I found many, many things I could make for my daughter, niece and nephew. Keeping my fingers crossed!
catherine
This is really lovely and sounds like a possibility given my currently limited sewing skills! If I start now I might have it finished by the time my daughter is big enough to wear it – she’s 5 mths old now
.
How adorable! Love, Love, Love this!
waow.. I just love this pattern and the fabric chosen… congrats !
Great pattern. Great Review.
Is already on my to do list!
This looks so adorable. Such a great pattern, thanks for always inspiring me
pattern is absolutely adorable….
So cute! Now I just have to find a young lady I can make it for. . . .
Thanks for this. It great to have a pattern reviewed by someone who knows what they are doing
This looks like a fun pattern! Very cute too.
That is sooo incredibly cute. It’s got to be next on my list! Love it!
Great little summer top-love the pocket!
Thank you for the review – the tunic looks cute.
Cute pattern. Thanks for the review.
Very Cute – a great summer outfit!
That’s really cute! I love the pocket and the hem, you could have a lot of fun finding some great contrasting material for this top. Thanks for the review!
I had seen this pattern lately and was not drawn to it but now, after having seen your lovely version, I’m going to have to consider this pattern. I would definitely modify the sleeves as you suggest. I love the embroidery.
Clearly I need to have a little girl…or live closer to my nieces…lol.
Very Sweet!
Oh I am just starting a weekly sew-along and this will definitely be one of the patterns we do!!
Thanks!
I love your interpretation of this pattern.
Very simple, but full of details!
I need more little girls in my life! It’s all boys and more boy babies being born!!
Thanks for reviewing this pattern. I keep drooling over these patterns, but since I like to physically see things before I buy them, I have refrained. Thanks so much! Have a great weekend!
great looking pattern–thanks for the thorough review
cute top! reminds me of the 70′s lol
I really do loke you blog also.
thanks for taking the time to put it all together.
I bought some Heather Bailey fabric a while back that I’ve been hiding away. This pattern is so great I think I’ll use it for my daughter!
Looks cute! Love the block printed accent!
I just received this pattern in the mail!! I am so excited to try it! I love the print you used for the bottom, where is that from?
I really like the neckline shape–I get tired of plain round/scoop necks!
This shirt is too cute. The arm vents are an interesting idea. I can definitely see what you mean when you say that the flared sleeve is a little much though, but that’s easily changed.
Nice review. I had been put off by all the prints from this designer, but now might give the pattern a try based on your more simple version!
I reluctantly read your review for the chance to win the fabric, but I’m so glad I did! You came to the same conclusions that I had. I always thought that when someone reviewed something it was to mainly say how much they loved and liked it and how well it was written, ect. I liked the top, but specifically not the wings of sleeves. I loved how you block printed the fabric and it really opened possibilities for things that I would like to make! Thank you for your honest opinion!
What.a.gorgeous.pattern!!.It.really.makes.me.wish.I.had.a.little.girl.to.sew.for!!!
x.Mel
I love that pocket–so fun! and the sleeves just scream summer to me!
this pattern is super cute!! I know my 5 year old would love this in every color!!
Sooooo Cute!! looks like a fun one to make
So cute! The kind of pattern I’ve been looking for- thanks for the review.
Love the top!!
This is adorable!
This Top is really cute!! I love the embroidery!
Now this looks fun!
I think the dress looks really fun and cute! I’ll be adding this patter to my wishlist.
Great Pattern, Great Review. So often it can be daunting starting a new project. I have two little girls and love the idea that I can read a review before I go ahead and whip something up for them. Thanks again, Dee.
What a gorgeous tunic top for little girls – and with so many possibilities to personalise it with different fabric, stitching, printing. Gorgeous! Great review, thanks!
How did I miss this? I’m really loving everything about this shirt!
Adorable tunic! Thanks for the great review–
Sweet little top & such a wonderful review!
It looks lovely!
Thank you for sharing your review! We’re in agreement on many aspects of this pattern. I made it for my 2 year old in the dress version and I opted for the elastic in the sleeves. I love how yours turned out in the mostly solid fabric choice!
Oh this is such a sweet pattern. I can see me getting very carried away with it, altering slightly each time.
It does look cute – I would change the sleeves, though. They’d look too big against my daughter’s petite frame.
My granddaughters would love this style…I think I need this pattern!
ADORABLE!!!
This is a darling top and the wood pattern fabric adds to the uniqueness. The embroidery reminds me of stiching I used to do to my shirts in the 70′s. Love it!
The pattern is cute and I love your choice of fabrics! I’m not crazy about the flared sleeve and would even love to see this in a sleeveless style.
Great review and cute tunic! Thanks
Excellent review. I love love love this pattern.
How cute. I’d have never touched that pattern because the cover pics are just hideous but remade in simpler patterns I can see now it would be darling. Thanks!
Your review helped me see this pattern as not so intimidating. I love to sew but sometimes I get scared off by how difficult a pattern looks. The top is so cute. My sweet girl would look fabulous in it.
Thank you for such a great review. I have been looking for something like this to make for my daughter. Thanks for the tips!
Very cute!
This pattern is adorable. Love the colors chosen for the sample too.
wonderful review. i am always on the look out for that special pattern to make my girls wardrobes, well, a little more special. Thanks for for sharing your modifications. i like a more fluid hem, and like the length added by not folding over.
SO lovely! the tunic is adorable and the embroidery is just wonderful!
I love the printing at the bottom!
Super cute! Thanks for the great review.
Cute top! I must confess that I am a crazy pattern mixer!! I try to keep it to throw pillows and pillowcases, but sometimes…
BTW, loved the shot of the chicken coop! Chickens make me smile!
Lovely and very quirky top! I’m not sure I love the wingy sleeves, but it’s definitely retro which I love…I really thought my little baby was going to be a girl, but I was surprised 2 weeks ago with a little boy. I guess I’ll have to wait for the next one to make this top!
Thanks for the review! I have 2 little girls that I like to sew for when I have a chance and this looks like a fun pattern. Great material choices and embroidery idea and the comments to put elastic in the sleeve are a helpful idea.
This is really cute. I like your perspective on using a simple fabric to showcase the lines. I agree the sleeves are a bit much with the linen blend, but I like them with the various cottons. I’m glad to hear the patterns are well-written.
I so love this top. I am a beginner sewer, and would be afraid of taking on a job that beautiful. but mabye after more practice! Just had a baby girl, so I’ve got a lot ideas on the brain, and patterns on the wishlist. LOVE LOVE LOVE it!!
That is a gorgeous dress and a well written review. Thanks for sharing.
very cute. great review!
Great Review! I liked hearing what you would do differently if you were to do it again. I’m always looking for ways to make things different each time. I, too, don’t care for the sleeves, but you did a fantastic job on the top.
Very nice looking pattern! Your daughter is super cute too! Thank you.
I love this top, it would look so cute on my nieces. The review is excellent, I may have to purchase it this summer.
I have been looking at this pattern for a while & your review is awesome!!! The only question I still have is how is the fit? The main reason I haven’t got it yet is that it looks to run very wide… & my twins are super skinny as it is. I have been looking at some of the other amazing ModKid patterns but have the same reservations with all of them.
Great Review! So detailed… I think I will give this one a go for my wee Charlie this summer:)
Very cute tunic! Love the 70′s feel of it! Looks a lot like something I’ve worn as a child! Thanks!!!
What an adorable top! I love the embroidery!
What a great review of the pattern…thank you! I have been drooling over these patterns and you just sold me!
That tunic is beautiful and I love the butterflies.
I’ve been thinking about ordering this pattern, but have been put off by the huge flares at the arms. Maybe when I get a bit more experience under my belt I’ll be confident enough to make modifications as I go along. Good to know that the rest of the package is worth it though!
LOVE the embroidery! very nice!
I am thinking of ordering this pattern. I am a bit afraid—but seem like the directions should help a lot. Could someone be more specific about how you add elastic. Is it in the hem or top part of the cap sleeve. Cannot wait to try it out.