With Easter coming this weekend, this pattern test couldn’t have come at a better time! I just had the opportunity to test the Nathan Vest and the Grady Pants patterns’ from Sew A Little Seam (SALS). I was excited when the tester call went up, because my little guy needs more church clothes! He was so excited that it was his turn to have mama make him something.
Both of these patterns have darts in them, and I know sometimes it’s hard to get your darts to turn out just right. Check out my tutorial on how to sew the perfect dart.
Nathan Vest
As with most of the patterns from SALS, this one is jam packed with options. It is drafted for sizes 3 months clear to a 15/16. I foresee many more vests for my son in the future with this same pattern!
There is a collared and non-collared option, a double-breasted and single breasted, and you choice of patch pockets, welt pockets, or no pockets. You can also opt to add an adjustable strap on the back. I did the double breasted, no collar, no pocket option and did add the adjustable strap on the back, though I still have yet to find a vest clip for it (My Joann’s was a bust!)
As far as sewing the vest, I will admit it took a while to get through my first one. The instructions are very extensive and easy to follow, it is just a more-complicated pattern than I’ve sewn for a while.
But I’d say all the extra effort is worth it when seeing the end result. I had to grade from an 18month to a 2t waist to fit my son, and am hoping it will fit him through the summer. The fit ended up being right on for us after grading. Get your copy of the pattern here.
Grady Pants
I also signed up for the pants test, because I knew I wanted pants to match the vest. This was the perfect pattern for that!
The Grady Pants also have a size range from 3months to 15/16 and has a diaper ease option for sizes 3 months-3t. I used this option as my little guy is not yet potty trained.
Again, this pattern has so many options! You could make several pairs and get a different look each time. The testers used every type of fabric from suiting, to denim, to seersucker and each pair turned out so awesome. There are a full elastic, back elastic and fitted options for the waistband. Front slant pockets, front curved pockets or no front pockets. Back patch pocket, back welt pocket or no back pocket. And a faux fly or functioning fly. And either shorts or pants length.
I made the 18 month with diaper ease for my short-legged boy and used the shorts length with diaper ease and back elastic waistband. This will be the perfect outfit for church in the summertime!
Sewing these took some time, just like the vest. But the thing I like about that is I know that these are made right and I’m not making any shortcuts! It is the perfect pattern for making professional quality pants.
On the front waistband closure I used some Kam snaps instead of a button and button hole, or hook and eye. I love the pop of color it adds! This is the pack of kam snaps I have and they work perfectly every time!
I am thrilled to have this done for him just in time for Easter! He looks so handsome in them! Next up, I’m making him some new jeans with the denim I’ve been hoarding for a while.. Now go grab this pattern for yourself here!
Happy Sewing!
❤ Kayliegh
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