Season of One Thimble!

Funny enough this Spring has really been the Season of One Thimble (affiliate link).  It started off really innocently, I signed up for a pattern test with Gracious Threads and then she announced that pattern was going to be in Issue 15.  Then I answered Winter Wear Designs call for some boy testers and bam, pattern number 2.

So I'll start with the Dax Trousers from Gracious Threads.  I tested these on my smaller boy child.  They are a slim fit dress up trouser.  For us that means they are the perfect pants for church, thats about the only place we dress up these days.  I could definitely see them even more dressed up- and you can too in the sneak peek for Issue 15 (affiliate link).

As usual, the directions and drafting from Gracious Threads is excellent.  This pattern walks you through a working fly and a bonus technique sheet is available for extra help free on the Gracious Threads site.

The pants also have a nice clean finish on the inside, big deep front pockets and classic welt pockets on the back.  

This pair here was actually made from an old pair of my husband's so I recycled the belt loops, buttons and used the existing hem.  I tried to use the zipper but ended up accidentally cutting it at the wrong spot.  He wore these on Easter Sunday with his Pete the Cat Shirt (made from a Buttericks pattern).  

So then I moved on to the big brother.  He got the new Metro Blazer from Winter Wear Designs.  It was surprisingly fun to test the blazer.  We are not blazer wearers here- even my husband has only worn one a handful of times since I've known him.  Still I thought it would be fun to see my oldest dressed up for a change.  When I went to photograph the blazer though it didn't seem natural to dress him up.  What I did end up with made my mama heart ache a little.  My baby is so grown up!

Before I show him off though, let me say a few words about the pattern.  The directions are clear and well written.  One thing, I'll admit that threw me is the sizing.  I'm so used to just sizing up when me kids are between sizes.  If you're familiar with Winter Wear patterns, then it will not be a surprise to you that you actually need to go down.  So my first version swam on my thin 12 year old.  I had to cut it down to get the right size.  Unfortunately I forgot that he was also tall so mine turned out a tad shorter than I think it should be.  There are directions in the pattern to customize the fit as well.

The finished blazer is just awesome.  It has a lining, wonderful slimming darts along the front and options for color blocking, either the large segments or just the yokes and collar like I did.  There are also welt pockets on the front.

Seriously, when did he get so big.  

Don't forget to head over to One Thimble (affiliate link), check out the magazine.  Its a super deal for all the wonderful patterns (plus for us here in the US, the poor Aussie dollar makes it an even better deal!).  If you really only want these two, you can also purchase them separately- Dax Trousers and Metro Blazer (affiliate links).