Features:
If you lived in the first half of 20th century America, you would have been aware of (and maybe even used) the idiom “The Cat’s Meow.” Although there is debate about the phrase’s origins, its meaning was unquestionably one meant to describe something excellent and appealing. This pattern for Rompers has been written for nostalgia lovers of this era. Rompers (also known as a “Playsuit”) were popular casual items from the 1930s through the 1950s. Often featured with a button-front skirt, they were worn as casual wear at home or even as bathing suits by removing the skirt. This design was inspired by two real-life patterns from those decades, and incorporates my favorite features from each of them. The bodice has front and back princess seams, armhole ruffles, a square neckline, and a lining with finished seams. The attached pants have two pinch pleats on the front for extra fullness without bulk, and can be gathered with elastic on the bottom edges or left straight. The dress uses the same bodice as the Rompers, and is attached to a skirt suitable for border prints, stripes, and eyelet edges. All options can be finished at the waist with a bias-cut tie or Skinny Tie Belt. Those who want a simpler project can use the separate Lining pattern for both the Bodice and Lining to eliminate the princess seams, and also remove the sleeve ruffles. An an extra perk, a Bonus tutorial with directions for making a sleeveless bodice with a finished lining is also included.
On Fit:
When you print this pattern, check to make sure that the scale is correct by measuring the 1” square scale on each page. Set the page margins on your printer to narrow and the print scale to none. When you begin sewing, pay special attention to the size of your seam allowances. This pattern was sized to fit snugly, and accurate seams are important to achieve a good fit. This pattern was sized on a recently purchased American Girl Doll (Chest: 11”, Waist: 10-1/2”, Hips: 12-1/2”). If your doll is smaller/larger, you may need to make adjustments to the pattern for an optimal fit. The most critical measurement is the waist size. Two sets of cutting lines are provided: one for dolls with a waist 10-1/2″ or smaller, and one for waists larger than 10-1/2″, up to 11″. If your doll’s waist is larger than 11” inches you may need to add extra width at the waistline. The Rompers will have a looser fit on dolls with waists only slightly larger 10-1/2″ when using the larger cutting lines; likewise, the fit will be snugger on dolls with waists closer to 11″. For an optimal fit, it’s always best to make a trial mock-up and nip and tuck the side seams as needed.