Sew Many Books : Stellaluna

We have had our copy of Stellaluna for about 10 years.  It has been handed down from one child to the next.  It was given as a gift to my middle son when he was in grade school and then it was handed down to my youngest son and finally to my daughter.  So many tiny hands have held this book and I have read it so many times I should be able to recite it from memory.

When I was asked to participate in Sew Many Books hosted by Nap-Time Creations, I knew right away which book I’d pick.  I wanted something that was soft and fuzzy like Stellaluna but I didn’t want a costume.  Inspired by the Inverness Cape (and something I saw on pinterest which I can’t relocate), I decided on a caped vest.  My Little Miss has had a great time running about the house pretending she was a bat, but from a distance, she was just a sweet little girl in jacket.  She’s like Superman (I suppose Batman would be a better analogy here) as Clark Kent.  On the outside, she’s a mild mannered almost 5 year old but when darkness falls and the city needs her, she is Batman Stellaluna!

I made this out of pinwale corduroy and flannel.  And, for a little sparkle, it’s all top stitched with metallic thread.  Because metallic makes everything better.

It was very easy to make.  I used an existing bodice pattern for the vest and made a full circle cape, which is drafted just like a full circle skirt.  Just measure from the should down to where you want the cape to end.  Using an existing collar piece as a gauge, cut the center and then measure from there down to the end of the cape using the measurement you just took.  Cut your circle in half and use it as a guide to cut a lining, sew together and turn.  Sew up your bodice and, when finished, sew the cape/wings onto the back center.  I used two triangles to keep it secure and help distribute stress.  I placed buttons on the front sides to secure the cape.

You can unbutton the cape and it drapes nicely down the back like wings.

 

It also looks pretty cute from the front with the cape unbuttoned

 

It’s also cute just draped over the front.

 

Don’t just stand there, let’s get to it.  Strike a pose, there’s nothing to it.  Vogue!

 

Sorry, I couldn’t help myself.  Every time I see those last 4 photos, that song starts running through my head.

 

One last photo before I go.

 

Thanks for inviting me to be a part of Sew Many Books!  I had a great time.  I’m excited to see what is coming up from the other participants.  We’d love to see what you have too.  Join the sew-a-long and show us your book inspired creations.  Head over to Nap-Time Creations and see what it’s all about!

• Pattern: Self drafted
• Fabric: Stretch pinwhale corduroy and cream flannel from Pacific Fabrics and Crafts
• Dress:  GapKids
• Boots: The Children’s Place

 

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