Like many sewists, I like to stay in my comfort zone. And, that generally means that I avoid anything that looks difficult – such as zips and button holes. The I CAN Zip Hoodie pattern by Waves and Wild has been on my ‘to make’ list for quite a while, though, as I find zips much easier than pullovers when dressing a toddler. Spurred on by my sewing friends who had successfully made this pattern, I decided to give it a go. For this review, I made the I CAN Zip in age 3 using some gorgeous cotton lycra from Lillestoff. I also used cotton lycra for the wrist and waist bands rather than ribbing (just because it’s thinner and works better for a summer make).
What I Loved
- The new Waves and Wild patterns are trimless and very easy to put together.
- The instructions are really clear and easy to follow. A diagram is included for each step.
- Layers are available in the PDF file so you only need to print your size. A size chart is also included to help you determine this.
- The Waves and Wild version of this pattern comes with a print at home copy, an A0 copy for copy-shop printing, and a projector pattern.
- The pattern comes with options to make either a plain or a colour blocked hoodie. The colour blocked option enables you to add pockets.
- This pattern has taught me how to insert a zip. And, do you know what? It was super simple! I don’t know what I was so afraid of.
- There are two different zip options – one for complete beginners (which I did) and one for those with more experience.
- The end result – I mean look at it! It’s beautiful. This is definitely one of my proudest makes to date.
What Wasn’t So Great
- I did get confused on the last step which involved folding the zip under to top stitch. I couldn’t work out what I was supposed to fold. For anyone else confused, you don’t need to fold anything – just top stitch over the zip.
Pattern Tips
- Make sure you buy an open ended zip. This was mentioned numerous times in the pattern and I still got it wrong – thank you well known British haberdashery store who had wrongly advertised their products. Thankfully I was able to place a next day delivery order from Plush Addict so I wasn’t hanging around for too long to finish this make. They have no idea I’m recommending them in this post but if you’re looking for one cut to size in a range of colours, I highly recommend using them!
- Also Wonder Tape will be your best friend when getting the zip lined up correctly!
Final Verdict
The Waves and Wild I CAN Zip pattern is a great introduction to using a zip, and actually makes it look easy. I’m so glad this was the pattern I chose to help me lose my zip virginity and I’m no longer scared of them. Even when doing the “easy” version of the zip, I don’t think you can tell at all with the finished garment. It just looks really nice and effective, and is amazing in every way. Can you tell how much I love it? My make for this review was made with cotton lycra which is perfect for summer wear, but I definitely plan to make another in French Terry or sweatshirt fabric so Ember has another one ready for the autumn/winter.
The Waves and Wild I CAN Zip Hoodie pattern advises using a medium weight stretch fabric, although it does say a lighter weight fabric can be used – although expect a baggier fit. The PDF can be purchased from the Waves and Wild website for AUD $12.00 and is available in sizes premature to age 12.
