Roly Poly Pinafore + Pattern Giveaway

This pattern name is so fun to say--Roly Poly Pinafore--and it was a lot of fun to make, too!  The Roly Poly Pinafore is the first of what I know will be many great patterns by the multi-talented Rachael of Imagine Gnats.  In fact, if you saw my post from Tuesday, you know she already has a second pattern (the Tumble Tee) in testing that will be released soon.

Today though, I'm sharing with you my version of the Roly Poly Pinafore as part of the Roly Poly-along blog tour that is happening through the end of May.

When I first signed up to make a Roly Poly Pinafore for the blog tour, I had considered sewing together strips of a jelly roll and using the yardage created as the fabric for the top.  However, after sewing together all 40 strips of fabric (ugh!), I decided that it just wasn't the look I wanted to give this fun, playful top.  So, I riffled through my fabric stash and came across this colorful novelty print I bought last year called Woodland Friends by Ellen Crimi-Trent for Clothworks.  The reverse side is a quilting cotton I bought at the same time but have no idea of the name.

The Roly Poly Pinafore is so sweet and simple, yet the single pleat in the front and the cross over panels in the back set it apart from a basic a-line top or dress and add a touch of whimsy to the look.  This top is also apparently the perfect thing to wear for a day out at the playground!

The pinafore is completely reversible with no exposed seams, and both sides have their own set of in-seam pockets although I couldn't get my model to use them for any pictures!

Rachael has done an excellent job with this pattern.  I made Ella a size 5, and as you can see, it fits perfectly.  The pattern includes sizes 6 months to size 10, but the pattern pieces are separated out into two groups so you won't waste ink and paper printing out multiple sizes you don't need.  The pattern instructions also show you how to cut out the fabric with the pocket piece attached to the bodice pieces already or as separate pieces that you sew on.

Reversible tops and dresses are so easy to make and eliminate the need for pressing under hems and using the serger to finish raw edges.  Plus, if your child spills something on one side, you simply flip it over and they look all clean again!  Magic!

The overlap design in the back is ideal for climbing and swinging from monkey bars because it doesn't constrict your child's movement.  Plus, when the weather really heats up this summer, Ella can wear the Roly Poly Pinafore without the extra polo shirt underneath yet still be covered up.

Thanks, Rachael, for having me roll along in the Roly Poly-along Blog Tour!  It's been fun!

Can't get enough of the Roly Poly Pinafore?  Then you are in luck!  There are more Roly Poly sightings scheduled for every weekday for the rest of May.

5.13 Jill Made with Moxie / Stephanie The Crafty Kitty

5.14 Stephanie NeurosesGalore / Cherie you & mie

5.15 Ari Max California / Caila Caila Made

5.16 Veronica SewVery / Tara Girl like the sea

5.17 Nancy owen's olivia / Adrianna Crafterhours

5.20 Ajaire Call ajaire / Sarah EmmylouBeeDoo

5.21 Laura Craftstorming / Jessica a little gray

5.22 Frances Miss Matatabi / Nicke kiss kiss quilt

5.23 Amy formwork design / Kat Sew Chibi

5.24 Joanne Rose & Dahlia / Amanda Kitschy Coo

5.27 Celina Petit a Petit and family / Delia Delia Creates

5.28 Christy a.Amelia handmade / Carolyn Fake It While You Make It

5.29 Bonnie Fishsticks Designs / Maria La Inglesita

5.30 Jane Buzzmills / Kate Things for Charlie

5.31 Polly Jack & GeeGee / Molly Rose & Odin

Plus, you can enter my contest below for a chance to win your own copy of the Roly Poly Pinafore pattern, compliments of Rachael at Imagine Gnats!  Winner will be announced on Monday, May 20th!

a Rafflecopter giveaway