Applique Directions

A perfect embellishment to complete your garment. A professional applique is easier than you think. Here is my easy, fool-proof method for sewing on an applique.

Check out the complete instructions with full color pictures and resources by clicking on the above picture, or HERE.

Alignment Tip

Tip: To help avoid misalignments (when the bottom layer feeds, but the top layer doesn't). This tends to happen more often when the starting point is more bulky. I like to put my finger nail behind the bulk of both layers and make sure I push the top layer so it feeds at the same time as the bottom. Your starting point will look just as clean as the picture below.

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Everyday Knit Ruffle Pants - Larger Girl Sizes - CLOSED!!

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED!! THANKS EVERYBODY I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOUR PICTURES!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Everday Ruffle Knit Pants" (#23004) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by August 9th!!

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Description: Slim-fitting through hips and thighs with an easy-on elastic waist. Pattern includes full length and capri length options, and single or double ruffle options. Instructions on how to apply professionl topstitched elastic (no uncomfortable twisted elastic casings here). Made with super comfy knif fabric or refashion some old shirts. Easy tricks for sewing knit fabrics with a basic sewing machine for professional looking results -- no serger required (although serger tips are included as well).

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You will receive 8 pages of patterns and 17 pages of instructions, including 28 steps and 33 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

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I need testers for the following sizes: 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, doll
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Already claimed:

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PLEASE read the PATTERN TESTING GUIDELINES!!!

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Classic Knit Tee - Larger Sizes - CLOSED!!

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED!! THANKS EVERYBODY I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOUR PICTURES!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Classic Knit Tee" (#21001) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by September 7th!!

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Descriptions: A snug-fitting hip-length classic tee with set-in sleeves and a simple crewneck. Made with super comfy knit fabric or refashion some old shirts. This versatile tee is great for both boys and girls. Perfect for layering and easily goes with skirts, under jumpers or even paired with jeans -- and it can be embellished in many ways. Pattern includes short, 3/4 or long sleeve options. Easy tricks for sewing knit fabrics with a basic sewing machine for professional looking results -- no serger required (although serger tips are included as well).

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You will receive 9 pages of patterns and 16 pages of instructions, including 26 steps and 26 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

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I need testers for the following sizes: 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, doll

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Already claimed:

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PLEASE read the PATTERN TESTING GUIDELINES!!!

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Basic Cap Sleeve Tee - CLOSED !!

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED!! THANKS EVERYBODY I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOUR PICTURES!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Basic Cap Sleeve Tee" (#11001) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by September 3rd!!

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Description: A snug-fitting hip-length tee with extended cap sleeves and a simple scoop neck. Binding around the neckline and armholes. Can be worn reversed -- with the scoop in the back. Perfect for everyday wear, excellent for layering under more revealing tops, or under cardigans and jackets. Easily paired with jeans, or dress up with skirts -- and it can be embellished in many ways.

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You will receive 14 pages of patterns and 15 pages of instructions, including 26 steps and 26 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

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I need testers for the following sizes:

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Already claimed: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL

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PLEASE read the PATTERN TESTING GUIDELINES!!!

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Basic Knit Leggings - Larger Girl Sizes - CLOSED!!

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED!! THANKS EVERYBODY I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOUR PICTURES!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Basic Knit Leggings" (#23002) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by August 27th!!

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Description: Snug fitting with an easy-on elastic waist. This must-have basic design will become a staple in your little one's wardrobe. Comfort and warmth are what makes these essential. Perfect layering piece for fall and winter under dresses, jumpers, tunics and skirts. Pattern includes full length and capri length options. Instructions on how to apply professional topstitched elastic (no uncomfortable twisted elastic casings here).

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You will receive 10 pages of patterns and 15 pages of instructions, including 22 steps and 25 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

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I need testers for the following sizes:

6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, Doll

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Already claimed:

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PLEASE read the PATTERN TESTING GUIDELINES!!!

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Circle Flounce Dress - Larger Sizes - CLOSED!!

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED!! THANKS EVERYBODY I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOUR PICTURES!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Circle Flounce Dress" (#24001) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by July 31st!!

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Description: This graceful dress features a fully lined bodice and a full circle skirt. It closes with three snap fasteners in the back. Definitely pretty enough for special occassions, while being comfortable enough for everyday play. You'll have a tough time keeping your sweet girl from spinning, this dress is perfect for twirls and whirls.

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You will receive 14 pages of patterns and 16 pages of instructions, including 34 steps and 45 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

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I need testers for the following sizes:

6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, Doll

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Already claimed:

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PLEASE read the PATTERN TESTING GUIDELINES!!!

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Knit Peasant Tee - Larger Sizes - CLOSED!!

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED!! THANKS EVERYBODY I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOUR PICTURES!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Knit Peasant Tee" (#21003) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by July 11th!!

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Description: A snug-fitting hip-length peasant-style tee with elastic shirring around the neckline and sleeves for easy on and off. Made with super comfy knit fabric or refashion some old shirts. This versatile tee is great for layering and easily goes with skirts, under jumpers or even paired with jeans -- and it can be embellished in many ways. Pattern includes short, 3/4 or long sleeve options. Easy tricks for sewing knit fabrics with a basic sewing machine for professional looking results -- no serger required (although serger tips are included as well).

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You will receive 6 pages of patterns and 17 pages of instructions, including 30 steps and 43 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

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I need testers for the following sizes:

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Already claimed: 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14

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PLEASE read the PATTERN TESTING GUIDELINES!!!

Poll -- Which Pattern are you most interested in seeing?

Pictures below ...

Leave comments and submit your answer in the poll on the right side of the screen.

SHRUG (NB-5T and 6-14)

BUMBO COVER

FLAT-FRONT PANTS (NB-5T)

KNIT PEASANT TEE (6-14)

BASIC CAP SLEEVE TEE (women's XS-XL)

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Basic Brief Bottoms - CLOSED!!

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED!! THANKS EVERYBODY I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOUR PICTURES!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Basic Brief Bottoms" (#23005) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by June 15th!!

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Description: These Basic Brief Bottoms have a modest full back coverage and will not ride up making sure your little one won't be constantly tugging and pulling to keep them in place. The most comfortable bottoms your little girl will ever wear. Perfect for underwear or even swimwear too (pair with the Shoreline Knit Tank for a cute tankini). Features a partial crotch gusset or full front liner. 3 different methods for attaching elastic (regular, picot edge and fold-over).

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You will receive 3 pages of patterns and 15 pages of instructions, including 20 steps and 30 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

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I need testers for the following sizes:
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8, 10, 12, 14
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Already claimed:doll, 2/3, 4/5, 6/7

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PLEASE read the PATTERN TESTING GUIDELINES!!!

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Shoreline Knit Tank - Larger Sizes - CLOSED!!

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED!! THANKS EVERYBODY I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOUR PICTURES!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Shoreline Knit Tank" (#12001) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by May 30th!! This is my FIRST pattern for larger kid sizes ... if it goes well I'll start introducing a LOT more and re-doing my existing patterns into larger kid sizes.

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Description: A slim-fitting hip-length tank top with dainty straps and 2 delicate rows of ruffles along the neckline. This modern, classic and versatile tank is great for layering and easily goes with skirts, under jumpers or cardigans, or even paired with leggings or jeans.

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You will receive 2 pages of patterns and 16 pages of instructions, including 20 steps and 30 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

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I need testers for the following sizes:
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Already claimed: 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14

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PLEASE read the PATTERN TESTING GUIDELINES!!!

Ruffle Directions (4 Ways)

Quick and easy instructions for creating ruffles. Here are my FOUR easy, fool-proof methods for sewing ruffles: using a ruffle foot attachment, double baste gathering, zigzag gathering and elastic gathering. Check out our complete step by step instructions with full color pictures by clicking the above picture, or HERE.

Elastic Casing (and Ruffle Casing) Directions

Quick easy instructions for adding an elastic casing (or a ruffled elastic casing) to complete your garment. Here are my easy, fool-proof method for sewing a classic casing and a ruffle casing. Check out our complete step by step instructions with full color pictures by clicking the above picture, or HERE.

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Easy Swing Skirt -- CLOSED!!

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED!! THANKS EVERYBODY I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOUR PICTURES!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Easy Swing Skirt" (#12001) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by May 25th!! This is my FIRST women's pattern ... if it goes well I'll start introducing a LOT more.

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Description: Easy, swingy style that flatters everyone and is super easy to sew. Comfortable enough for everyday wear, but stylish enough for nights out and special occasions. Easy-on, this elastic waist, dropped waist yoke, bias cut half-circle flounce, rolled hem, and below knee length.

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You will receive 16 pages of patterns and 11 pages of instructions, including 16 steps and 21 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

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I need testers for the following sizes:
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XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
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Already claimed:

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PLEASE read the PATTERN TESTING GUIDELINES!!!

Summer 2011 Collection - Custom Handmade Women's Clothing

Instead of working on pdf sewing patterns, I've been busy working and sewing on a collection of custom handmade women's clothing. On Wednesday April 27th we did the photoshoot of the entire collection and I couldn't be more pleased with how they turned out. Leah Teofilo did the photography. What a rush to see my collection being modeled and photographed ... SERIOUSLY!

The summer collection involves 12 easy to wear pieces that can be dressed up or worn everyday. I adore versatility. They are made out of the most super soft knits ... you'll feel like you're wearing pajamas all day. I promise comfort and style from every piece.

These items are custom made to order and you can customize them: longer sleeves, shorter pants or longer skirts, and you get to pick the fabric and color. Each item is handmade by ME and professional finished for stretch and durability with my serger and coverstitch machines.

A couple people have asked me about a maternity line ... let me tell you, this collection isn't made for maternity but I care wear EVERY piece and I'm 7 months along. I always wear my designs throughout my pregnancies.

So, go check out the Summer Collection ... now available at Jocole.com.

Pattern Testers Wanted!! - Everyday Ruffle Knit Pants -- CLOSED

THIS TESTING IS NOW CLOSED!! THANKS EVERYBODY I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOUR PICTURES!!

I'm currently looking for people who are interesting in testing my "Everday Ruffle Knit Pants" (#23004) sewing pattern before making it available for purchase. IMPORTANT: I *need* the reviews back by April 8th!!

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Description: Slim-fitting through hips and thighs with an easy-on elastic waist. Pattern includes full length and capri length options, and single or double ruffle options. Instructions on how to apply professionl topstitched elastic (no uncomfortable twisted elastic casings here). Made with super comfy knif fabric or refashion some old shirts. Easy tricks for sewing knit fabrics with a basic sewing machine for professional looking results -- no serger required (although serger tips are included as well).

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You will receive 6 pages of patterns and 17 pages of instructions, including 28 steps and 33 pictures to guide you along as you make it.

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I need testers for the following sizes:
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NB, 6M,
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Already claimed: Doll, 3M, 12M, 18M, 2T, 3T, 4T, 5T

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PLEASE read the PATTERN TESTING GUIDELINES!!!

Larger Size Testers?

sooooo serious qestion here ladies, i'm going to be working on larger sizes (6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14) ... who is willing to test for me in those sizes.

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i keep getting requests for larger sizes, but here is my problem ... my kids are 4 and 2 ... i have NO way to test the larger sizes myself, so i would need good testers and EXCELLENT pictures.

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and while i'm at it, who would be willing to test women's patterns (xs, s, m, l, xl, xxl) ... i can't take pictures of myself right now ... i'm sort of ROUND!

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please let me know what size you would want

Pattern Testing Guidelines

Here's how it works ......

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~ You leave your email in a comment when a new pattern is available for testing (on the post asking for testers for a specific pattern, not this one) and let me know that you're interested and what size you would like to test.
~ I reply and send you a copy of the pdf pattern, which you download, print and get sewing.
~ You tell me where I can improve and refine the pattern and instructions ... including how the size fits, grammatical errors and typos, if something needs to be added (pictures, more instructions, explanations, etc.). The more information you give me, the BETTER!!!
~ You get a free copy of ALL the final versions of the pattern once they are edited and finalized.

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Requirements ...

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~ You must have basic sewing skills (you don't have to be advanced!)
~ You must have the results back to me within 1 week.
~ You must take pictures of the finished product and email them to me. (The better the pictures, the more likely you'll be picked to test patterns again)

~ You MUST allow Jocole to use all photos of finished products for promotional purposes. Pictures are KEY, I choose testers by picture quality.

Once the pattern is listed for sale you MUST post your picture on Facebook and link to the pattern for sale.

Write a blog post with your picture and a link to the pattern.

You *MUST* write a review on jocole.com for the pattern after it is released.
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I hope you're up for the challenge, if so let me know!!!

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You will ONLY receive the final version of the pattern if you return your review and pictures. If you didn't then I won't send your the final revised version.

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NOTICE: Anyone who has tested and *not* returned the results within 1 week will not be eligable to test (unless you've tested multiple patterns before), contact me for more details. I *DO* have a running list of those who haven't returned reviews or pictures ... in order to test again you must purchase the previous test pattern to become eligible again.

NEW RULE!! -- you cannot test a pattern if you tested the preceding pattern ... meaning you cannot test 2 patterns in a row.

Organizer Planner + Download

As a busy mom of three kids three years and under I need ALL the help I can get. Appointments and housework often get lost in the jumble of just trying to juggle these cute little munchkins. Add to the mix all my health problems lately and things really got out of control. How had I let my Organizer Planner not help me keep things under control? Things are starting to get better ... I know I can't be the only one struggling.

I have my Organizer Planner set for half pages so I can keep it in a half-binder in my purse along with the rest of my life.

My Organizer Planner has 5 different tabs ... Notes, Calendar, Routines, Important Numbers, Bills/Budget.

Notes just contains lots of blank pages that I can fill up with sketches for new designs, confirmation numbers from phone calls, or something cool I saw on Dr. Oz or whatever else that jumps into my head.

Calendar contains blank planner pages that I print up ( front and back) and just fill in the date in the circle. I write whatever "zone" I am cleaning that week (I'll discuss that more in a little bit). I also print up the blank planner pages for menu planning as well -- well I'm trying to be better at menu planning.

Routines contains all my morning, evening, weekly routines, etc. It also contains all the "Zones" that I focus on each week for my detailed cleaning. Now I can hear some of you saying ... this sounds like Flylady ... well, it started out as Flylady but I got sick of her million emails so I adapted the system to fit into my life. I rotate the Zones however I want -- generally I just go in order, but if one area of my house seems to need a little extra TLC I'll add that zone into the rotation again.

Ok, I know it looks like a lot but if you actually keep up on it you'll notice an improvement rather quickly. The hard part for me when I started was getting rid of the clutter so I could get to the cleaning!! I still struggle with clutter but things are looking better. Do your zone cleaning whether or not you see dirt and you will NEVER see dirt again.

How I actually get my routines done: I'm a big fan of using timers. I set a timer for 10 minutes and clean (dishes, or whatever) and then set it again for another 10 minutes and enjoy some nice reading time -- I'm a big fan of rewards. My other favorite tool to actually help me keep my laundry under control is to put a load in the washer when I give my kids their breakfast, after they have watched 2 shows I switch it to the dryer (yes, I'm a bad mom who let's my kids watch tv in the morning). I try to fold and put it away during lunch ... and that's IT ... I ONLY do ONE load of laundry a day. It doesn't matter how much I have piled up, I don't need to stress. If I try to do more than one I know I wont end up putting it away and then what's the point?

Important Numbers contains all my family's addresses and phone numbers, birthdays and anniversaries. It also contains Emergency numbers (especially those for cell numbers ... you did know there was a difference didn't you?), direct numbers to my City's Police, City's Fire, County Sherriff, Poison Control, and all Pediatrician and Doctor Numbers and Medical Numbers.

Bills/Budget contains all of our bill information. Company, website, phone number, account number, website log-in information, date due and amount due. Yup ... I'm that anal -- but it makes paying the bills super easy. I have the bills in order of when they are due during the month and I have the first letter of each month that I cross off when I pay the bill so I can easily see when everything is paid.

Click the following links to DOWNLOAD pdfs of my Organizer Planner

Organizer Planner - HALF SIZE

Organizer Planner - FULL SIZE

A Craft a Day has also shared her home management binder and lots of downloads for each section, Check it out!

Refashioned Outfit Mini-Tutorial

You can find CUTE patterned knits right in your closet. This outfit was made from an old shirt I no longer wanted to wear ... but I thought it would make a super super cute outfit for Finley.

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I had extra black knit for the bottom of the shirt, but you could just cut up another shirt to finish the bottom. I used the Classic Knit Tee and Basic Knit Leggings patterns.

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STEP 1: Cut out Basic Knit Leggings, using existing hem of shirt as the hem on pants (I used the capri length -- and folded up the hem allowance).

STEP 2: Fold along the centerline (both the front and back). Line up centerline on Classic Knit Tee with your fold line, and align the shoulder edge with the shoulder seam. (I folded down the 3/8" seam allowance since the shoulder seam is already sewn). I'm using the existing neckline as well -- it was a crewneck on me, but looks like a scoopneck on Fin.

STEP 3: Cut out Sleeves ... I just cut as much as possible and used the existing hem.

Step 4: Sew together the Basic Knit Leggings according to the sewing instructions.

Step 5: Attach sleeves in the armholes, and Sew underarms and side seams together.

Step 6: I then cut out 2 pieces of black knit that were twice as wide and the bottom part of my shirt and long enough to make the top go past her hips. I sewed the sides together, and did a rolled hem on the top and bottom edge. I basted in a gathering stitch 5/8" from the top edge and pulled it to the same length as my shirt. Then I top-stitch along the basting line to attach (leaving a little ruffle on top!!)

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ENJOY!!