Father-and-son shirts are picture perfect
Dear Julia: We have a tradition of taking a family photo once a year. I try to coordinate our outfits so they match. We have two daughters and a son. The girls all have something to wear, but I haven’t been able to find anything in the stores for my husband and son that will work with what we are wearing. I think I am going to have to make something for them. Can you help me find a pattern for both my husband and son? There are not a lot of men’s patterns to choose from. Thanks. — Abby S.
Hi Abby: You are right — there are not a lot of men’s patterns out there. But I did find one pattern that I think will work for you. McCall’s pattern No. 6972 includes a men’s and boy’s shirt and bottoms. The men’s and boy’s shirts are identical, with shorts for the boy and pants for the adult male. Although the shirt has a collar, chest pocket and a button-down front, it is a beginner’s pattern with easy-to-follow instructions and basic sewing tips.
The loose-fitting shorts and pants have an elastic waist, mock-fly and side pockets, and should be relatively easy to construct. Choose a lightweight to medium-weight fabric like broadcloth, seersucker, linen or chambray. This cute matching boy’s and men’s pattern should make for a great family photo.
Dear Readers: We’ve been talking about sewing tools in recent columns. Sandra K., from Louisiana, wrote in with her list of essential sewing tools: Seam gauge Seam ripper Tailor’s chalk or a disappearing pen Flexible measuring tape Straight pins Hand-sewing needles A selection of different sizes and types of machine needles
These are all invaluable tools to have on hand. Thanks for sharing, Sandra! Send questions to Julia Cameron, c/o King Features, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803, or SewSimpleColumn@gmail.com.