One of my favorite things about going to the library with the kids is all of the beautiful illustrations in children's books. John will actually find books that he thinks I would like and his assessment of my taste is spot on. When I found Hansel and Gretel by Cynthia Rylant with Jen Corace illustrations I scooped it up into the already massive checkout pile. The detail in Gretel's clothing is so beautiful that I decided I need to make this into a Kate winter collection, probably when she's three. I was supposed to be knitting on a shop sample tonight but I put my extremely limited sketching ability to work and made this. The toddler croquis was traced from an Oliver + S pattern, keeping my proportions nicely realistic.
Two sweaters, two dresses, two blouses, one skirt, one coat, one nightgown, one apron. The evil stepmother also has some nice fashions, so I'll just ignore the evil part and turn them into loving mother outfits, okay?
I am looking forward to putting this all together in a few years. As I was drawing this, I realized how lucky I am to have learned so much from my mom. I can look at a picture in a book and turn it into real clothing. It's not a skill that is in demand or one that could become a reasonable career, but it is one that I am so incredibly happy to have.

Beautiful Brynne! Kate will be the best dressed 3 year old on the block.
Posted by: Amy | July 28, 2010 at 09:38 PM
That is an impressive skill, and one I wish I had. Kate will certainly have a beautiful wardrobe.
Posted by: Susan | September 18, 2010 at 07:41 PM
I must say you must be proud to be the toughest kid's mom,If she can pull through this, she can pull through anything in life... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpV5bFP657I Wish you and your all the fun and happiness for your upcoming projects,No more painful ordeal again.. Keep posting her progress.
Posted by: Kids ¬ Potion Lotion | April 05, 2011 at 04:26 AM