look-n-for-stuff

great educational toys for kids

JoAnne Fabric store online ordering

great info on how to alter for maternity:

Expecting a baby? Then you will need a new wardrobe. Here are some great options for maternity clothes and accessories.

Patterns:

* Look for high-waisted baby-doll dress patterns.
* Go for the big shirt look.
* Jump suits with deep pleats are comfortable.

Fabric:

* wool crepe
* soft rayon
* wool jersey
* cotton knits
* sand-washed rayon
* avoid fabric with large stripes

Altering regular patterns for maternity wear:

These are a few of the most flattering and easy-to-alter patterns for maternity wear:

* tunic top with large slits
* any oversized tops
* apron dress
* jackets
* elastic-waistband pants

Altering Pants for Maternity Wear:

1. You will only change the center front of the pattern. Start 1" up from the crotch and begin to draw upward and away from the pants.
2. Add height to the waistband, extending upward to the point of your center front extension. The end result is an upward-slanting triangle.

Altering a Top for Maternity Wear:

1. Draw a line beginning from the bottom toward the top of the pattern. When you get to the armhole area, draw across to the right. You should now have an upside down "L."
2. Draw three of these lines in a stair-step fashion, moving them toward the waist.
3. Cut each upside down "L." Spread them apart about 1".
4. Add about 1-1/2" to 2" to the hem, tapering on the sides to the original hem length.

To Make Deep Pleats and Add to the Ease Line:

* To add extra fullness, add an ease line to the outcurve.
* To add deep pleats, sew an inverted pleat, which allows the pleat to lie flat.

links to several manufacturers of maternity patterns

nursing tops

vintage embroidery transfers

vintage children's clothing patterns. Perfect for the "Shirley Temple" look.

cute things for little boys too

Diaper cover pattern