Cool & Casual... this is the shirt

I have a brand new release today and this one is going to make a lot of little boys happy!  Ever since the release of my Alexander Casey pants pattern, I have been thinking about how to make the perfect shirt to pair it with.  I wanted it to be simple but still offer something unique, able to be made from woven fabrics, and not need any buttons or snaps.  With those three things guiding me, I came up with Benjamin Tyler.

This shirt has been designed with a small partial placket at the front that is just the right size to not require any additional closures (though of course you can add a button or snap easily if you wish to!), and gives you the option of a front chest pocket.  The back of the shirt has a yoke that can be made with contrasting fabric, while the lower back piece can be modified with box or side pleats (instructions for that are included in the pattern).  The size range is from 12-18months all the way through size 10.

I think one of my favorite things about this pattern is how a small change can totally change the style.  Using all the same fabric gives it a mature look, while coordinating fabrics for the back yoke, pocket, and/or placket can make a bold impact or just add a subtle pop of color.  Match the placket to the shirt front and it practically disappears, change up which parts are prints or solids, and if you are looking for a comfortable soft lounge or pajama top, this pattern works great with flannel!

Speaking of plackets, do they make you nervous?  This one shouldn't!  Uniquely designed, this may be one of the simplest methods of making a placket you will find.  I'm not going to give away how it's done (not here in the blog that is... the pattern of course includes all the details step-by-step), but I will say that testers had a lot to say about how much they liked this method!  Trust me when I say, this is a placket that you don't have to be afraid of!

Benjamin Tyler is available today at a special New Release price of only $5.50cnd, but only until Friday September 16th!  Be sure to check out the listing photos for lots of inspirational photos from the testing team.

Heidi