Has anyone made fleece pants for their toddler?

[ShadowMom]

I'm thinking of trying to make some fleece pants for my little guy this winter. I'm just learning to sew (in fact I just got a sewing machine).

Has anyone ever done this before? Do I need to find a pattern to use? And, does it really matter what kind of fleece I use? I'm not sure what to look for in fleece.

Thanks in advance for any advice! Between knitting some soakers and making fleece pants I'm feeling kind of ambitious this winter.

[klink2]

I would definitely use a pattern to make pants. Once you have a pattern though, you can use it over and over again. I trace pants patterns onto posterboard, then I can easily use it as a template many times.

As for the fleece--it's a thick, stretchy fabric and takes some practice to work with. Not to say it can't be done, I'd just plan on buying a bit extra to practice on before you actually sew the pants. You'll need to play with the thread tension and stitch length, and maybe even the position of the feed dogs if it is very thick. Check your sewing machine manual--it should have suggested settings for sewing with fleece. You want to make sure one layer of fabric isn't getting stretched out while being sewn to the other layer.

Kristin

[mamarhu]

Good advise, Kristin. Also, for fleece, you would want a very simple pattern - lots of pockets, zippers, etc. would get bulky done in fleece, especially in small sizes. Simple pull on pants with elastic waist? Best of luck!

[mandib50]

using a simple pattern makes it alot easier! also, fleece comes in great quality, good quality and junky quality too. there are also different weights of fleece depending upon what you are looking for. if you want a fleece that does not pill (sp) after the first few washes and dries, then pay a little extra. if you don't care, then buy what you think is cute. it all depends upon what you want the pants for.

mandi