Boy Sewing: Inspiration + Tips

When it comes to sewing for boys, one of the top complaints I hear in sewing circles is that it isn’t as fun as sewing for girls or that you can’t find good patterns and inspiration. Well, as a boy mama, I completely disagree. Sewing for boys is far from boring, and to show you what I mean, I’ve got a roundup of boy sewing inspiration that is sure to get your creativity flowing! Plus, you may find a new blog or two to follow!

(And P.S. I know that many of these tips and ideas would be equally lovely for girl sewing, so you girl mamas can get inspired too! But because the point is to inspire some sewing for boys, forgive my gender inequality today please.)

1. Costume turned everyday

One of my favorite blogs to follow for boy sewing inspiration is Sew a Straight Line. Sabra knocks it out of the park every single time. and her details are amazing. She recently sewed the Knight Hoodie pattern by Charming Doodle. It veers toward costume-y, but still make something suitable for everyday play. Plus, is this not the coolest thing you’ve ever seen in your life?

2. Root, root, root for the home team

Have a sports lover in your house? Sew up a jersey, or a t-shirt that looks like one! Melissa of Melly Sews sewed her boys these jerseys so they can show their school pride.

3. Create your own graphic tees

 1. Delia Creates         2.  If Only They Would Nap      3. Shwin&Shwin

I think both Delia and Shauna do graphic tees really well (among so many other things). I’ve seen them both share a variety of techniques and graphics that any boy would love. Plus, this one doesn’t actually have to involve sewing – you can add graphics to a T-shirt you buy at the store.

4. Color blocking

Kids can get away with some pretty rad color combos, so don’t be afraid to mix it up.

Color blocking can really crank an outfit up a notch, as Monica from Adirondack Inspired shows with this fantastic chambray outfit. Plus, this is stunning, am I right?

Color blocking + exposed zipper =  See Kate Sew is a genius.

5. Bring out your inner animal

Adding ears, spikes, wings, etc. makes your little animal lover happy. Also, a baby in a bear hoodie is just too.much.cute. Marissa at Raegun Ramblings is a new boy mama, and I think she’s already got the boy sewing down.

6. Layer it up

1. If Only They Would Nap   2. The Crazy Tailor   3. Sew Much Ado
4. Quietude  5.  Lady and the Gents

 Since boy mamas aren’t adding ruffles and gathers to their clothes, add interest with layers – vests and cardigans! They can be dressed up or down to fit your boy’s look.

7. Pattern Play

Don’t let the girls have all the fun when it comes to using prints. Whether hiding in the lining like Sharon at Zonen09 and her amazing Lars jacket…

..or used as your main fabric like Stacey from Boy, Oh Boy, Oh Boy Crafts did with this rad houndstooth Bimaa. Her boy rocks the prints!

8. Add accents and bright colors to pants

                      1. Piping           2. Neon + Tuxedo Stripes          3. Neon Color Blocking

No more boring clothes excuses here! Adding accents to pants is one of my favorite ways to personalize boys’ clothing. Whether it’s piping or patch pockets, your boy’s pants can match his style. Caila at Caila Made added these awesome patch pockets in this geometric fabric, changing the entire look of the shorts.

The subtle color additions to these pants from Laura at Craftstorming is a perfect touch.

9. Embrace the Overalls

Okay really, is there anything cuter than a little boy in overalls? I’ll tell you. No, there is not.

10. Be a Hero

Adding a little super hero to a boy’s wardrobe is nearly always a win and super fun. (See what I did there?) I love the way Max California used Green Lantern as her inspiration for her son’s motorcycle vest.

Are you feeling inspired for some boy sewing?? I know I am! If you’re looking for some boy patterns, make sure you check out this Mega List of Boy PDF Patterns from Boy, Oh Boy, Oh Boy Crafts.