Made By Lex

Summer Romper Tutorial

As the weather warms up, I’ve been looking for new things to sew for the girls. I came up with this bold printed romper.

Think tank top meets shorts. It’s really easy to make and a great all in one piece. After doing this, I probably would have done a couple things different in the process, so feel free to take my thoughts and arrange them how it makes sense to you.

Start with the top of the romper. Get a piece that in length measure  from the chest line to waist line, adding a couple inches for the hem. Make it 1 1/4 times in width. Hem the top of the piece.

Connect the piece down the back. Now, with elastic thread, shirr the top. I did 4 rows. (For instructions on elastic thread, go here)

At this point you can add the straps.

Now that top portion is complete, let’s tackle the short. You make two simple short cutouts.

(If you’ve never done shorts, you can always use a short pattern, use a pair you already have to trace or google a little more info on how to make them.)

After attaching them at their legs then down the front and back seams, you’ll have your shorts.

I added a contrasting trim around the bottom.

Then connect them to your top piece. Ignore the fact that there is already a waistband here. that’s where I goofed up

Now, add a waist band that covers the seam in the middle. Sew down each side.

On the very front, cut two small holes side by side.

Insert some kind of tie to cinch the waistline . I used a grossgrain ribbon for mine.

How easy was that?!

I also did a little pick up at the legs of the shorts.

It’s the perfect summer play outfit.

My litle Gigi loves hers. And the bold prints suit her personality very well!

And is it completely wrong that I’d like an adult sized version? In a mature print or solid?

All fabric from harts Fabric

I HEART you elastic thread!

If there’s a lot of positive response I might do a tutorial for these. I did them all this afternoon, they’re that easy!
Oh, did I mention that I made myself a matching skirt? It’s so funny seeing us all together. I didn’t have Zach home to take a pic of us all but it’s pretty hilarious. I don’t think we’ll be wearing them at the same time.

The ruffled bottom.

The smocked waist band.

The bubble dress tutorial is almost done. Thanks for being patient!

And keep the comments coming to win the skirt!