Having kids changes your life in so many ways. Suddenly you have more mouths to feed, more minds to nurture and entertain, more bodies to clothe. Nowadays, it definitely isn’t cheap to keep clothes on your kids’ backs. And with the rate that they grow at, you can end up replacing entire wardrobes in a matter of months. Hand me downs can only go so far before they tend to show signs of wear and tear. So how do we go about fixing this dilemma? Well, making your own clothes for them, of course. This might sound daunting, especially if you haven’t come eye to eye with a needle in a number of years. But don’t feel intimidated. Making clothes for little ones can be easy, cheap and provide the special people in your life with some of their favorite outfits.

Materials

No matter what you do, when it comes to making clothes on a budget, don’t go to a fabric store. Most fabric stores tend to massively overcharge for their wares. Recycling is good for your wallet and the environment, so consider recycled fabrics your savior. Anything can make cute clothing for kids. Old quilt covers and pillow cases, curtains, cushion covers, whatever springs to mind. Wash the items thoroughly and then get your patterns out to start transforming the old into new. If anyone you know is having a wardrobe or interior design revamp, let them know that you’d be happy to take their old fabrics off their hands.

Tools

Everyone should have a good, basic sewing kit. From the basics of hand sewing (needles, thread, thimbles, tape measures, and pins) to more specialist equipment (serger threads, specialist elastics and machines). It is important to have all necessary equipment at hand. Most sewing materials, tools, and machines are sturdy and will last decades. This is an investment and will save you money in the long run. Do your research. Will you need an overlocker? What’s the best budget machine that will cater to your needs? Is it better to buy threads and other raw materials in bulk or as you go along? Always hunt down the best bargains. After all, this is a money saving scheme.

Variety and individuality

You probably know how to make one or two items of clothing well. But don’t feel limited to these. There are so many easy styles for little boys and girls out there. From circle skirts and smart trousers for days out, to pinafores and dungarees for playing in the garden. Check out online tutorials for tips and tricks that will make the creation process easier. Ask your kids what they’d like to wear. This could give you some inspiration when it comes to colors, fabrics, and designs that they’ll be begging to put on. Your child will be sporting a wardrobe of entirely bespoke outfits. No other child will ever be matching, as everything will be tailor made to suit your child and your child only.