Books for Boys

I have given some lists of our favorite books in the past. My boys were younger. See here for a few posts. 

But if you have a son who is learning to read and ready to move past the easy Dr. Seuss-like books, I highly recommend a series of books about Billy and Blaze by C.W. Anderson. These are the first books my 6.5 year old son has been excited to read on his own. 

Striped Shorts....Made from Polo Shirts!

These shorts started out as thrift store polo shirts. They were in great shape (men's size XL) and only $2 each. They are the perfect size to turn into size 6 or 7 boys' Coastal Craze Baggies. (affiliate link)

I had purchased the polo shirts last year with the intention of making more PJ shorts (I made a bunch last summer, see here, here, here, here, and even made them into pants here). 

I completed these several months ago, but hadn't gotten a photo. I made the waist a little larger since using the pre-existing seams on the shirt eliminates the seam allowance. I used the existing hems on the polo shirts which left cute little vents at the leg openings. It also made them a little longer for my long-legged boys. 

Only one pair has pockets. It was simple to eliminate the pockets from the pattern. I recommend this pattern if you are looking for a fun and easy pattern for kids' shorts. I also highly recommend using existing knit t-shirts or polo shirts as a fabric source! They are less expensive and available in so many fun colors.

Lane Raglan Colorblock Shirt

I made another Lane Raglan shirt this past week! I had been given a Hobby Lobby gift card for my birthday, which I used to purchase ivory knit fabric with tiny gold triangles.

Lane Raglan Hoodie

 I purchased the Lane Raglan Pattern from Adrianna over at Hey June Handmade a few months ago (maybe a year ago?) and it took me awhile to sew it up for myself. I normally don't use ready-made patterns, but I decided if I am going to sew for myself, I should start using actual patterns, since some of my attempts with self-drafted patterns haven't turned out so well.

Zoo Animal PJ's

I made two pairs of zoo animal PJs for my older two boys. The fabric is from fabric.com and I haven't washed it more than once yet, but it is soft and thick. I'll have to weigh in on pilling after a few more washes, and I did have to wash it once to soften it up, but it was good for a cheap-er knit. They are not compensating me in any way, I just thought it was a good deal and was nice to sew with. I used Robert Kaufmann Laguna knits for the cuffs and neck.

Baby Hats!

I had a bunch of hats to donate recently.

Little Varsity Cowl Neck

I made another Varsity Cowl Neck pullover (pattern by Peek-A-Boo Pattern Shop). I am an affiliate with Peek-A-Boo patterns and I truly love them.