Another testing session for Made By Jacks Mum ,  this time the Cottesloe Cowl which is a cosy top with pockets and a lovely cowl neck, perfect for Autumnal walks in the woods kicking up leaves.   My model is 10 but tall and slim so we went for age 12 size as he is in RTW age 12 tops, we went a bit too large I think as this pattern is generous and could easily be made in sweatshirt fabric as a jumper to wear as an extra layer on days when there's a chill in the air. He picked the main fabric from Kailuna and I snuck the red band in on the pocket binding to contrast with the black and white of the main and contrast fabric and give it a little pop of colour.   There are two different pocket options, or you could of course opt for none at all. It comes in sizes prem/newborn up to 12 years. The 12 years size would fit a small/slim adult with a little bit of adjustment to sleeve and body length if needed! Would recommend this pattern especially if done in a sweatshirt

I love testing new fabrics and it generally means my boys get a little something. This latest strike off test is from JK Jersey fabrics  a fabulous UK based fabric group. I got to test from the Halloween round which is open from 2 August 2016 for just 2 weeks so get in there as soon as you can! The fabric is a 95% cotton 5% lycra, 240gsm so a good weight with a soft handle and a dream to sew. It has a 4 way stretch. Horror Story Minimal grey colour loss on the pre wash, not visible in the post wash colours and only a small amount of shrinkage, I think it was 1.8cm shrinkage however the darling puppy ate my piece of paper with my measurements on! Biggest child was the recipient this time and he just wanted a basic long sleeved t-shirt, no colour blocking or pockets and a pair of boxer style pants. The t-shirt pattern is my own I've had for years, I have to keep drafting it bigger and bigger as he grows. The boxer pants are from the Made By Jacks Mum pattern. It has