Pixel Pullover

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I’ve been hard at work on my latest pattern – the Pixel Pullover.  A pullover in May, you say?  Well, when you’re designing for the seasons Down Under, that’s how it works!

The Pixel Pullover is featured in One Thimble Issue 19, which is available now on the *One Thimble website.

I’ll dedicate another post to the issue and what’s inside, but for now we’re talking about the Pixel Pullover.

The Pixel Pullover is unisex for kids sized 2T to 12.  It has a two-part saddle sleeve, which is a great combination of a raglan and a set-in sleeve.  The two-part sleeve allows it to have great shaping over the shoulder, eliminating the bulk or pulling often seen in raglans.  There are three neckline options: shawl collar, scuba hood, or wide cowl.  Cuffs at the sleeve and waist make it a quick sew.  Optional thumbhole cuffs are included with a link to a video tutorial to help with the fabric origami required.

I made five different Pixel Pullovers throughout pattern development and testing, in a variety of fabrics.  This cotton velour from Nature’s Fabrics has become a favorite, and I made three versions using it.  This is an early version of the scuba hood.  We brought the neckline up and reduced the height of the hood in the final.

The shawl collar in sweatshirt fleece and wide ribbing.  This is also the earlier version with a lower and wider neckline than the final.  Also the wide ribbing grew a bit during sewing, so it might not be the ideal fabric for this neckline.  I will say that after it’s been worn and washed several times it is sitting nicely and Arden says it is warm and cozy.

Then the cowl version with the thumbhole cuffs.  Arden chose the fabrics and their placement, so a quilted knit for the body, and two different weights of Rayon spandex for the sleeves, cuffs and cowl.  The cowl is a very drapey and lightweight fabric so it does hang lower than some versions you’ll see.  Some testers used cotton Lycra which has a little more body but still flips over.  The sweater knits and French terry ones sort of stood up more for a scarf-like effect.

Arden asked for the thumbhole cuffs which add a nice element and extra warmth on chilly days.  I love a thumbhole cuff, but Hadley didn’t care for them at all.  To each their own, I guess!

One tester added a drawstring for her boy and oh, boy isn’t that cool?!  I added a small note about that option into the tutorial and will try it myself soon!

I told you I fell in love wit that cotton velour, so I made two more versions using it.  I wanted to add some embellishment to the saddle sleeve so the last two versions focus on that.  This hooded one has gold lamé piping.  This accent is so easy to accomplish, but it sure packs a big punch!  I use my piping/cording foot for piping, but you can use a zipper foot if that accessory isn’t in your sewing kit.

Last and probably my favorite is this shawl collar pullover with flat ribbing in the saddle sleeve seam.  I used the striped ribbing there and also for the cuffs.  Then I found scraps of a cotton Lycra stripe in a different scale in my stash for the lining of the shawl collar.  I had to piece it in the back, but it worked a dream and I love the result!

I might have to figure a way to make one like it for myself!  I’ve already heard rumblings asking for an adult version, so I’ll keep that on my mental list.

I’ve already made one of the other patterns from Issue 19, and have plans for at least a couple more.  There are some great early bird specials, so if you hurry you get some fun extras!  *One Thimble Issue 19