Screw patterns that make you look sleek and sexy; I’m on a mission at the moment to create the ultimate wardrobe of comfort. So, when I came across some of the softest jersey fabric I had ever felt in my life on a Facebook group, I knew I needed the perfect hoodie pattern to accompany it. While the MBJM Hot Coffee may be a staple in my wardrobe, I wanted something a little different for this make. Enter the Sinclair Patterns Lotte Colorblocked Hoodie. This pattern isn’t your basic hoodie! It’s a lot more complicated than I’m used to, but the end result was most definitely worth it.
What I Loved
- The instructions are very clear and easy to follow. A photo guide is included for each step.
- Layers are available for the PDF file so you only need to print your size.
- In addition to the standard sizes, this pattern is also available in Petite, Regular and Tall – no need to lengthen or shorten the pattern pieces which is AMAZING!
- The PDF file is trimless so it doesn’t take long to stick it together/cut the pattern out.
- Seam allowances are included.
- The pattern comes with instructions explaining the pattern definitions, and also provides advice on how to sew with knit fabrics.
- The Lotte pattern can be made with either a hood or a cowl neck.
- There are both classic and thumbhole cuff options.
- Because there are quite a few pattern pieces which go into making up the front, you can really have fun with the design of the hoodie. I opted to match two fabrics that I had purchased together, but I’ve seen some really nice versions of this made with three or more – it’s great for scrap busting in this regard.
- The finished garment is beautiful and really well fitting.
- It’s available in a good range of sizes – XS – 4XL (US 0-30).
What Wasn’t So Great
- The pattern is listed as 3/10 on the difficulty scale and suitable for beginners. I beg to differ. This took me about ten hours to make (including cutting and sticking the pattern together), and it’s not something I would recommend to a new sewist. Intermediate – definitely.
- While the majority of the instructions were really great, I did struggle with the main pocket piece. Luckily I found a really good YouTube video which takes you through the steps.
Pattern Tips
- Try not to stretch the front panel pieces when sewing them together. You’ll see from mine that I stretched it slightly, which caused the wave effect. I was too impatient to try it on to try and press it out, so I’m hoping that works.
- For much of the top stitching, it’s advised to use a stretch stitch or a small zigzag stitch on the general sewing machine. It wasn’t until half way through that I realised there was no reason I couldn’t have used my coverstitch for much of this. Next time I make one, I’ll definitely do this instead for a neater finish.
Final Verdict
It may have taken me ten hours to make this hoodie, but honestly, the end result is so, so worth it. I really love the look of the colourblocked panels on the front, and the pocket looks really professionally made – as someone who is used to kangaroo pockets, it was really great to learn something new. While I probably won’t make another one of these for a while due to the time commitment, it’s definitely a pattern I will be keeping in my arsenal and will probably try again in the winter.
The Sinclair Patterns Lotte Hoodie requires a medium to heavy weight stretch fabric such as French Terry or sweatshirt fleece. The cuffs and waistband both require a stretchy fabric – you can use ribbing or cotton Lycra. You’ll also require a knit interfacing for the pocket openings, and notions like drawstrings, grommets and elastic (for stabilising the shoulders) are optional.
The PDF pattern can be purchased from the Sinclair Patterns website for $9.99. It is available in sizes XS to 4XL.
