Help w/ Halloween Costume

[mommy_e]

Well, I got brave and decided to make a costume for my 16 mo. I had loads of time and help this weekend so I started. Here's where it gets interesting. He is wearing mostly 12mo clothing. So, I used the Size 1 Mcalls pattern. It is basically a jumpsuit with a headpiece (elephant). I measured him as best I could (squirmy little guy) and the pattern and it looked to be about right. However, it just fits in the crotch and the legs are about 3 in too long.

I think I can make do with the legs, just hemming them before I put the feet on. But, the crotch has me worried - 2 mos to Halloween and I'm afraid he will grow out of it. Anyone want to guess if this will fit in 2 mos?

Is there any way to add length there without re-making the whole thing? I got the fabric on the $.99 table, and I'm not sure I have enough to make another one, let alone the time/energy.

More importantly, how do I measure to make sure I get it right the next time (older one wants a lion)?

[courtenay_e]

Well...you could cut it at the waist and add as many inches as you need THERE...

Also, the older one should be much easier to measure. Check on the back or inside flap of the pattern and see if there's a neck to floor measurement that THEY give to tell sizing. That's a decent gauge. And another way is to cut out each individual pattern piece needed, adjust for seam allowance, and then measure your child's corresponding body parts to see if it's a good size match...if it isn't you can adjust the pattern piece (by folding to make it shorter or adding paper in the middle to make it longer) BEFORE you cut and sew! Hope that made sense...I know what I'm trying to say, as I've done it before...

[mommy_e]

Just replying to my own post to share the solution I found in case anyone else has this problem.

I consulted my Grandmother - the great guru of sewing She suggested adding a diamond-ish shape piece in the crotch area. It was similar to the sweater sleeve longies patten that I found here. Basically, a skinny lemon-shaped piece with the points going down each leg and the width of the 'lemon' being the additional length in the crotch. I only had to undo a bit of the crotch seam to put it in and it added enough length (2-3 in) that it fits perfectly now.