Around the Block Hoodie

Mom asked for another Dionne Duster Cardigan (which is yet un-made…sorry Mum) and in the order from Nature’s Fabric, I added 3 cuts of bamboo stretch fleece to make a second sweatshirt pattern after the successful Hudson Hoodie from the spring.

This one used the pattern Around the Block by Ellie & Mac and I made it in a size large. It’s AMAZING! 🎉

This is a great pattern that checks a lot of beautiful design details: the asymmetry, the color blocking and details like installing grommets and making a coordinating (faux) drawstring.

I went off-pattern with how I attached my drawstrings. The instructions said to knot the end between the outer and lining, I basted the rivet end down in between the outside/lining at the bottom of the hood. It was then sewn in the seam attaching the hood and the bodice.

I opted for the side seam pockets too. They add a bit of bulk, and when I put my hands in my pocket too heavy/hard, the bottom can peek out from under the waistband. Next time I’ll sew the bottom of them into the waistband, I saw someone in the Ellie & Mac Facebook group mention they’d done that.

The hood is lined with a polyester-spandex stretch satin from Mood Fabrics. It’s the same idea as a satin pillow; a satin-lined hood will pamper my curls. I struggled with lining up the hood and I think it was because the satin didn’t have the same stretch percentage as the fleece. It still worked out, just something to consider the next time I use this satin.

All the seams are serged (aside from topstitching on the hood) and I was pleasantly surprised that the seams from the color blocking are barely noticeable when wearing the hoodie.

I used a black Maxi-Lock Serger Thread – Tex 27. Previously I’ve only used a cheap poly thread I got from Amazon, but I think using better thread has made a big difference in the softness of the seam as well as consistency and less frustration in setting up the serger.

Sizing Cut: Large
Alterations: Altered drawstring attachment.
Next Time: Attach pocket to hem band
My Measurements: 39½” bust, 31″ waist, 39½” hip