Toddler Rashguard and Swim Shorts

The only reason I'm posting this is that I searched for days for a pattern on the net for a toddler rashguard.
I found this tutorial and this cute set and that's about it.
Basically,I used Kwik Sew simple raglan top pattern (now OOP), but you can use any well fitting raglan pattern and switch the neckband to a wider one and a short pattern from Ottobre Kids magazine.

These were made last year and this year the fit is perfect!
The main thing to remember, inside seams need to be flat and soft, I used Wooly Nylon in my serger (overlock) and fast seams.

Fabrics are from Chez Ami 

Rhythmic Gymnastic leotard: "Dramatic Bows"

This Rhythmic Gymnastic leotard is based on 2 altered Jalie patterns.
Jalie 3026 and 2792. I needed to adjust the pattern to fit my slim 7 year old, but the pattern and the instructions are very well laid out and easy to follow.
This is a third leotard made from the same pattern(s).
I find that I always have to re-draft the sleeves - not sure if my daughters upper arms are too slim or the pattern pieces are too generous.

I have been asked what I use to applique lycra on lycra (spandex).
In the leotard below both bows and black"ribbon are appliques separately.
While I prepare a tutorial, here is short description:

• Use a cut of applique fabric large enough to accommodate   all your applique pieces.
• Trace all your piece to the paper side of your fusible bond, I use HeatBond Feather Lite Iron on 
• DO NOT CUT OUT your shapes
• Iron on the  Heat Bond onto your applique fabric
• Cut out all shapes when cooled off
• Peel of the paper, position on your leotard, gently iron press to secure and applique (use medium lenth zig-zag to ensure structural garment stretch)
• Done!

Quick skirt upcycle

Once upon a time there was a hand me down denim dress.
The dress top was jersey fabric beyond stained and frayed - it had to go.
The dress was transformed into a denim skirt:

Once the skirt became too short, but still loved, it needed a little more "tinkering"
We added a gathered ruffle from quilting cotton fabric
(that's where you break out your ruffling foot)
And a "yoga" style folding top from ribbed fabric (with an elastic inserted on top)

With an addition of a lovely bird applique, the skirt was as god as new!

My big girl wore it for a while and now it's tucked away waiting for my
little girl to grow into it.

Introducing....my newest project!

My new baby!
Funny thing is I have UFOs that took longer to finish.

The hat is hand knit from organic unbleached non-mercerized cotton using this pattern
http://www.knittingonthenet.com/patterns/babymockcablehat.htm
Love this pattern- fast and easy. I always make the ribbing shorter since I don't like a bulk of folded cuff on baby hats.

Here is another yummy pic:

Blanket knit from Cascade Yarns 220 Superwash Handpaints in Blue Marble.