Long sleeve shirt with neck collar for kids (free pattern)

Christmas is just around the corner, and what could be better than creating something personal for the little ones? Under the theme “Create Your Magic,” I’m offering a free pattern for an adorable long-sleeve shirt with a mock neck collar in sizes 86–92 (18-24 months). With the detailed sewing instructions, you’ll be able to create a unique shirt in no time – perfect for the cold season!

Whether as a handmade Christmas gift or for fun winter days, this shirt will bring a sparkle to children’s eyes and add a touch of cozy magic.

You can find more sizes and pattern options (including 6 neckline options and a hem ruffle) in the “Kids Shirt Box” from Creavision Lab (get 20% off with the code SHIRTBOX20 until 12/31). So nothing stands in the way of your creative sewing fun!

The free pattern

Download the free pattern for the children’s shirt in sizes 86–92 here:

Kid’s Shirt Size 82-92 (18-24 months)

Required materials

• 65 cm / 25.6 inch (full fabric width) of elastic fabrics such as cotton jersey, viscose jersey, wool jersey, rib jersey; French terry & summer sweat
• Color-matching sewing thread /overlock thread
• Size labels (if necessary)
• Tailor’s chalk or trick marker
• Fabric scissors or rotary cutter with cutting mat
• Fabric clips and/or pins
• Household sewing machine and overlock machine, for example bernette 77 and bernette 62 AIRLOCK
• For assembling the pattern: paper scissors, printer paper, glue or adhesive tape
• Sewing needle & seam ripper
• Measuring tape

bernette 62 AIRLOCK

The coverstitch machine with easy air threading ✓ 4 coverstitches and 3 chainstitches ✓ Can be used for countless applications, with which different fabric types ✓ Sufficient space for large projects ✓ The large working area is brightly illuminated ✓ Stitch length adjustable while sewing ✓ 

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bernette 77

The b77 focuses exclusively on sewing and quilting. Get creative and sew your own clothes, quilts, or accessories. Discover new stitches and sewing techniques with this easy-to-use computerized sewing machine.

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Finished Garment Size

Size 12-18m
Chest width 60 cm / 23.6 in
Back length 35 cm / 13.8 in

Size 1-2yr
Chest width 61 cm / 24 in
Back length 37 cm / 14.6 in

Printing and assembling the pattern

Print the pattern either at home on A4 format paper or at the copyshop on A0 paper. The PDF includes layers, so you only need to print the size(s) you require.

• Open the PDF document using the free Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Locate and click on the “Layers” icon in the navigation pane on the right-hand side of the Acrobat Reader window. This icon may look like a stack of paper or have the word “Layers” next to it.
• Deactivate the layers you do not want to print by clicking on the eye icon (see circle) or check box next to each layer. Activate only the layers you want to print.
• Go to the “File” menu in the menu bar at the top of the Acrobat Reader window. Choose “Print” from the drop-down menu.

Before printing, navigate to “paper sizing & handling” to make sure that “Actual size” and the orientation “Auto” are selected. To ensure that the correct size is printed, check the 3×3 cm or 1 in control square on the first page of the pattern sheet.

Start by cutting off the bottom and right edges of all printed pages along the provided lines.

Assemble the sheets by aligning the markings with the corresponding numbers precisely. Ensure that all pattern lines match up accurately. The pattern sheet overview (below) can assist you in maintaining the proper orientation.

Sewing instructions

Fold the hem edges of the front and back bodice to the wrong side of the fabric along the notches and press, starting from the center.

Pin the shoulder seams of the front and back pieces right sides together and sew. Press the seam allowances towards the back.

Unfold the shirt with the right side of the fabric facing up. Pin the sleeve to the armhole, right sides together, matching the notches. Ensure the shoulder notch on the sleeve aligns exactly with the shoulder seam.

Sew the sleeve in place, then repeat the steps for the other sleeve.

Next, place the front and back pieces right sides together and sew the side seams and sleeve seams on both sides.

Fold the pressed hem of the shirt and/or sleeves 2 cm to the wrong side of the fabric and pin in place.

Turn the shirt right side out and topstitch the hem 1.5 cm (0.6 in) from the edge. Use an elastic stitch, such as a zigzag stitch, or a twin needle for stretchy fabrics.

Fold the mock neck collar in half on the fold, with right sides together. Sew along the raw shorter edge to create a loop. Press the seam allowances open.

Then fold the collar in half lengthwise, with the wrong sides together, and press to create a crisp fold. The raw edges should be aligned.

With the shirt turned wrong side out, insert the collar into the neckline, right sides together. Match the raw edges of the collar to the raw edge of the collar. Align the collar’s seam with the center back, and match the shoulder notches with the shoulder seams.

Since the collar is slightly smaller than the neckline, gently stretch it as you pin to ensure it fits evenly. Sew the collar to the neckline using a stretch stitch or a serger/, keeping the fabric slightly stretched while sewing.

For a professional finish, press the seam allowance toward the shirt body. Be careful not to stretch the neckline while pressing. Topstitch the seam allowance using a stretch stitch or twin needle about 1/8 inch (3 mm) from the seam. Your wintery children’s shirt is finished!

Don’t forget: You can find more sizes and pattern options (including 6 neckline options and a hem ruffle) in the “Kids Shirt Box” from Creavision Lab (get 20% off with the code SHIRTBOX20 until 12/31).

The lovely examples shown here are from @_doppletes_lottchen_

Yours,
Sonja