The Coastal Cargos

As I started getting back into sewing the past few months , I found a few new independent pattern companies had popped up since I had been here last. And to my great delight! Finally! Someone has started to fill the gap in the pattern market by making boys clothing patterns that were modern and realistic. Style is one thing, but the fit in the pattern I’m about to share with you is incredible. I’ve written several times about how the big pattern company’s patterns are always far too wide and sometimes short. But even then, there isn’t much to choose from.

One of the pattern companies I’ve joyfully stumbled upon was Blank Slate Patterns. As soon as I saw this Coastal Cargos pattern {affiliate link}, I was excited, but at the same time hesitant. I had previously had some bad experiences with boys patterns, but I went on to purchase the pattern and looked forward to when I could give it a try. I signed up for a Back To School handmade clothing swap and got paired with a mom in Arkansas who’s boy was near my son’s size. We decided the Coastal Cargos would be a great pattern so I headed off to F&M Fabrics to get supplies and then got to it.

These pants have so many great features – there are pockets everywhere, as well there should be in a pair of cargo pants. There are front pockets, back welt pockets, and of course, cargo pockets, but all of them are optional. The most obvious and fun feature is the bias tape at the side seams and inseam. Not only does it look good, but the way it’s done makes for a very smooth inside because the seam allowances are sewn on the outside.

My son is a skinny guy so the elastic in the back is a MUST for fit, not to mention great for comfort. There are belt loops too in case you need a little more security around the waist. I found the coolest little buttons at F&M Fabrics  and attached them to the cargo pocket flaps.

All in all, we were kind of sad to pack these up and ship them off, but we can only hope the recipient will love them as much as we did and head back to the fabric store to get supplies to make another pair for my son! The Coastal Cargo pattern fits sizes 18 months to size 8 (how AWESOME is that). I foresee a new pair every fall…

If you’d like to make your own pair, Designer Melissa Mora hosted a Coastal Cargo Sew-Along on her blog Melly Sews and the posts are still there for you to enjoy. It’s a great way to get a little extra guidance while you’re sewing them up and then share and be inspired by others. Have a great weekend!