Linny's Pinny for Fall!

Lauren Marie shared her beautiful version of "Linny's Pinafore" on facebook. She allowed me to show it, too!

Lauren tells us this was only her third smocked garment! She made an 18 month size for her niece to wear next year. Lucky little girl- these colors are beautiful. Look what an even job she did on the ruffles! The big ribbons are so pretty, too! I love it when people send pictures!! If you have made a "Linny's" please share some pictures with us!!

A Wee Sleeper

 Yes, I'm still on my Wee Kick. We have a Smocking Guild meeting this Thursday and I want to turn in my Wee Care items for the year. I've been experimenting: wondering "what would parents want for their baby"? Many will love the fancy smocked gowns, but I think others would want something more simple- especially here in New England, where smocking is rather uncommon. I think some Dads would rather have "pants" on their little boys.

This is a tiny knit sleeper, meant for 10-12" preemies, which would be about 24-26 weeks. Even comparing it to the glasses, I think you have to see it in person to realize how little it is. This is the back- see how the feet are formed- that wasn't easy.

The fabric is cotton knit and I added a little lamb embroidery from Blue Ribbon Baby. It is about an inch tall. The snaps are size 14.

There is a little hat with the suit. Isn't it cute- this took all of 5 minutes to make.

I purchased a new pattern, designed for 10-12" preemies or dolls. While I think it turned out well, the pattern left much to be desired. Until I hear back from the seller, I am not going to link to it. I will update later if I can recommend it.

For the Wee Ones

I have really enjoyed making these tiny gowns. I am sad to think of why they are needed, but glad to help in a wee way.

This little gown is from a pattern by Joy Welsh of Applique for Kids. She generously allowed SAGA to publish it and has graciously allowed me to post the PDF in my MAS Patterns Group!! Thank you, JOY! I used ecru Martha's favorite cotton batiste for this gown. I don't remember where the lace came from- possibly a super MP Co. sale. It is about 2" wide, cotton, and very soft. I initially added the wide lace at the neckline, but it was too much. So, I cut it in half widthwise and I like the scale better, but I wish I had stitched it to the top  of the casing, instead of underneath. I would have moved it again, but I just can't undo all the tiny stitches. Next time I will know.
I love the sleeves. I used a little lace beading with narrow ribbon and it allows ease of dressing, but also can be fitted so it's not too blousy.
The embroidery is a cross from Creative Keepsakes Christening II with "In God's Arms" added in Embird. It is stitched in gold metallic thread.

The embroidery next to it is one I digitized. It is actually based on a tattoo of a Dad who lost an angel baby. I asked people's opinions and they overwhelmingly felt it was not appropriate, so I am not using that one on anything.
Joy's pattern is great for several reasons:
1. It comes in 4 sizes from Tiny Preemie to Newborn
2. With the drawstring neck, it is super quick to sew
3. It is nearly flat in front making it a great canvas for embroidery, lace work, etc.
4. PDF makes it so easy to print and it has just 3 pieces!
 So, go download yours today and give it a try to help Preemies in your area.