gingham sketchbook shirt + a winner

When I found out I was having a boy this time around, one sewing-related thing I was genuinely excited for was button-down shirts. Little boys just look so sweet in button-downs, and I’m glad for the opportunity to make one – and many more down the line, I have a feeling – for my little Oscar.

This one was inspired by the Milo Shirt from Bobinette, which I found on Pinterest almost a year ago. I immediately thought of the Oliver + S Sketchbook pattern, a must-have for boy sewing. I got my copy last summer when I sewed the Sketchbook shorts for the Shorts on the Line series, but this is my first attempt at the shirt. It came together really nicely (of course it did, being an Oliver + S pattern and all) and there’s something that feels all professional about making a shirt like this, even though it’s really not difficult (it’s just a two scissors pattern). Hand sewing the collar is the only tedious part…I’m so impatient when it comes to hand sewing!

I added some of the same details as the Bobinette version: snaps in lieu of buttons (though I used pearl snaps, because like silver thread, I think the world needs more pearl snaps!), and a bias-cut pocket, placket, and yoke.

And then some orange top stitching and a matching twill tape tag – because orange and gray are nice together.

The gray gingham is from Hawthorne Threads – look at all their Riley Blake gingham options! There will most certainly be a version #2 of this shirt in one of those other colors.

I had this all cut out and ready to sew for KCW this spring, but it got bumped down the list since I knew it would be awhile before it fit. The 6-12 months size is still big on Oscar, but I couldn’t resist trying it on for a photo. And while I’d love to keep him tiny forever, I can’t wait for this shirt to fit!

And….we have a winner! A copy of the Fancy Pants Leggings pattern goes to nurturemybaby.  Laura will contact you by email very soon!