Thursday, July 2, 2015

Itty Bitty Baby Shoes

About two days after my due date, I was desperately trying to keep myself busy and my mind off of my discomfort. But an in-depth project wasn't up my alley either. A quick rummage through the kids' room and I couldn't find any baby shoes (until about a week later, then I found a whole box of them). I turned to my favorite resource for children's patterns, Peek-a-Boo Pattern Shop, and bought the Tiny Toes Soft Sole Shoe pattern (affiliate links).

This was definitely the quick, satisfying project that my tired-of-being-pregnant self needed. I think I fall firmly in the middle of the spectrum when it comes to whether or not baby shoes are necessary, but they sure are cute!

Baby H wore these home from the hospital and got lots of compliments. They're getting snug now at 6 weeks.

One day old, heading home

They're made from stretch faux leather from Girl Charlee. This was my first time sewing leather (fake or not) and it was pretty easy. Don't be scared of it! Since it's basically kinda sort of a knit, I used a ballpoint needle and had no trouble.

Since I made the newborn size of these shoes (it goes up to 4T) the small pieces were a bit fiddly, but if you have some patience with them it's a very manageable pattern. I had attempted shoes once before, as one of my first projects, and it didn't go so well. If you have any experience you'll be fine.

I liked this pattern because the shoes are unlined, which means there isn't any hand-sewing seams shut. There is elastic behind the heel and you have to hand-sewn the ends there, but only because there isn't enough slack in the newborn size to get the elastic under the sewing machine. A larger size might not have that issue.

And c'mon, how adorable would these be for a baby shower gift?

For more Peek-a-Boo pattern love, check out the Run n' Play Dress and Romper, out today! Grab it on sale today only. SO. CUTE. (affiliate links)

