I am SO late to the Willow & Co party. I know. In fact, I bought these fabrics months ago when the pattern collective first launched - and I had every intention of participating in the pattern tour. But, you know, life happened…things got in the way…and I cleared my plate. But interestingly, I’ve been sewing a TON more now that I don’t have any “obligations.” I use quotation marks because my husband always laughs when I get stressed out about sewing deadlines. I mean, it is kind of funny, you know? Because sewing. Right?
Anyway, I am loving how all my W&CO garments are turning out, and these are especially cute (the Aster Cardigan and Clover Shorts). Don’t mind the blurry photos; I’m not sure what was going on other than the fact that it was semi-raining. So maybe a little misty? Some condensation on the lens? I suck at photos? All of the above?
Instructions
For the cardi, I only glanced at them. That top was seriously easy to sew, and it took about half an hour. The instructions are straightforward and well-written.
Same for the shorts. Super-easy sew…predictable (but fun!)…etc.
Pattern Pieces
No complaints from this peanut gallery. Everything was perfect.
Sizing/Fit
Harper is a straight-up-and-down 20.5″ (chest, waist and seat). I made the 3T in the cardigan and a 2T in the shorts. Both are a perfect fit. I chose the larger size in the cardigan because I wanted her to be able to wear a little tee underneath…and, well, I am not one of those people that wants things I sew to fit perfectly on first try. I like a little growing room.
I chose the smaller size for the shorts because Harper has my unfortunate no-butt genes. And, ahem, her daddy’s, too.
Modifications I Made
None.
Things I’d Change Next Time
Nothing! I may, however, switch out the buttons since I’m not sure I’m in love with these…not for this outfit, anyway.
Fabric Choice
The top is a fabulous, thick ponte knit from A Fashionable Stitch. It almost felt like felt while sewing; I didn’t have to use any pins since it was so grippy. It was easy-to-sew and works perfectly for this pattern.
The shorts are made of a medium-weight stretch twill, also from A Fashionable Stitch. Perfection.
Wearability
Right after I took these photos, I took the kids to the Treehouse Museum in Ogden. Harper was climbing all over things, playing, running around, etc. - and she did it all with ease. She even took herself to the potty (!!!!!!!) and managed to get everything up and down. I love that she was comfortable, but she also looked adorable (and got compliments! Someone asked me if I sold the garments!).
So yes, I’d give that a thumbs up for wearability. I can see this cardigan looking great all winter with jeans, leggings, skirts…everything. And the shorts? I’m thinking about putting those over some tights with Harper’s purple Doc Martens.
Overall Impression
Awesome, awesome, awesome. I had so much fun sewing these patterns. They are the trifecta in my book: fast/easy but fun-to-sew and great-looking. And Harper’s happy.
What have YOU sewn from Willow & Co? Do you love their patterns as much as I do?!
laurenydahl
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