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The Sew What’s New Archive

This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was retired in August 2007. It is being provided by “Sew What’s Up,” which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: HeatherL
Date: 10-02-2004, 12:34 AM (1 of 10)
This question is so odd I'm not even sure how to ask it.

I am an incurable packrat and cheapo. I save EVERYTHING with the intention of putting it to other use, if at all possible.

I have a bunch of knit jersey tops (long sleeve) that have hit the scrap basket, to be reworked into baby/toddler clothes. My original intention was to cut pieces out of the big panels, and make simple pullovers or caps. Then I got this burst of inspiration that I could make knit pants without too much work...assuming that I could use the sleeves of the shirt as the legs of the pants.

But now I'm stuck because I'm not sure what to do about crotch/waist/etc. And I'm AWFUL about thinking three-dimensionally (I always failed that portion of aptitude tests miserably!), so if the idea is so obvious that it's staring me right in the face, please be kind and try not to laugh too much at my expense.

Um...anyone know how to make an adult shirt into children's pants? Can it be done, or am I just dreaming?
User: HeatherL
Member since: 03-13-2004
Total posts: 102
From: dmoses
Date: 10-02-2004, 09:43 AM (2 of 10)
Hi Heather,

There is a book called 'Short Kutz' by Melanie Graham (copyright 1991) that deals with exactly that. She shows how to make childrens clothing from adult jeans, shirts, sweaters, etc., while keeping some of the seams intact. It's really neat, and saves a lot of time. :bluesmile
Take care,
Donna
User: dmoses
Member since: 02-22-2002
Total posts: 964
From: HeatherL
Date: 10-04-2004, 11:09 PM (3 of 10)
That sounds PERFECT. And I found a used copy online for a whopping $0.70, so I should have it in my sweaty little hands within a few days. Thanks so much for the recommendation!!
User: HeatherL
Member since: 03-13-2004
Total posts: 102
From: MaryW
Date: 10-05-2004, 09:06 AM (4 of 10)
Gee Donna, it does sound kinda neat. Do you have a copy?
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005
Total posts: 2542
From: dmoses
Date: 10-05-2004, 10:15 AM (5 of 10)
Yes, I have a copy that my husband gave me when our kids were small. I haven't used it much lately. The last time was when I was helping my daughter make a doll. We used the ideas from the book to make pants for the doll from an old pair of child's jeans. So cute! :up:
Take care,
Donna
User: dmoses
Member since: 02-22-2002
Total posts: 964
From: avajo
Date: 10-06-2004, 12:07 AM (6 of 10)
Heather would you mind telling where you found the book. I would also like to have a copy but I searched on Ebay and didn't find one. Thanks.
User: avajo
Member since: 09-01-2004
Total posts: 10
From: HeatherL
Date: 10-08-2004, 03:10 PM (7 of 10)
I got the book today and I LOVE IT! The author is not only the queen of recycling old junk, but she has a great sense of humor and very easy to follow instructions for pattern drafting.

Thanks, Donna!!

And...avajo...I found my copy on Amazon.com...just do a search and then click the link for used copies. You end up buying them off an individual, Amazon just acts as a middle-man for the payments.
User: HeatherL
Member since: 03-13-2004
Total posts: 102
From: dmoses
Date: 10-08-2004, 03:21 PM (8 of 10)
Hi Heather,

Glad I could be of assistance! :bg:

Have fun with your new book. :smile:
Take care,
Donna
User: dmoses
Member since: 02-22-2002
Total posts: 964
From: MaryW
Date: 10-10-2004, 07:21 AM (9 of 10)
Here is another option for recycling.
http://www.sew-whats-new.com/quilting/stadiumquilt.shtml
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005
Total posts: 2542
From: blackie
Date: 10-18-2004, 07:11 PM (10 of 10)
I got my copy of Short Kutz (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/1895099919/qid=1098140316/sr=1-1/ref=sr_1_1/103-1784425-2742228?v=glance&s=books) in the mail the other day. I took both of my children's measurements and sent off the worksheet to my mom (so she can sew for my kids). I also sent off a blank worksheet to my friend so she can fill it out for her child (whom I've been guestimating for).

Today while my kids were napping I shopped online for winter clothes. Luckily I had their measurements in a binder instead of having to wait until they wake up.

So, my copy has already been worth the $1 + S&H I paid!
see the mundane life of a housewife.
User: blackie
Member since: 03-31-2004
Total posts: 594
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