A printed t-shirt combined with matching bottoms makes a cheerful, coordinated outfit for a child. The best part is that you can design the set yourself, choosing the pattern, colour and trims that you like.

Using the leftover fabric

Use a piece of the pattern fabric from the bottoms to make accessories for the outfit, such as appliqués for the t-shirt and hair bows.

The bows in the picture are real fabric bows, not a print. They are made from the same fabric as the bottoms and look very realistic.

Design it your way

You can design whatever pattern you like. Any printed fabric or colour will work. Complete the top by combining it with the fabric of the bottoms, either with a pocket, a trim or an appliqué.

Tips

• Choose a stretch needle and a narrow zigzag stitch when sewing jersey t-shirts.
• Keep prints in balance: pair a busy print with a plain top, or the other way round.
• Always pre-wash the fabrics together so they shrink the same amount.