BERNINA Corporate Blog -I am so excited to introduce a small pattern hack today that transformed our “Garden Lovers”-Dungarees into the perfect outdoor overalls made from softshell for wet weather! Last fall, I had the idea to sew the “Garden Lovers”-Dungarees for my son using lightly lined softshell—ideal for colder and wetter days. Here, I’ll show you how I modified the overalls into a functional outdoor version with just a few simple adjustments. Let’s start sewing outdoor overalls from softshell.
What You’ll Need:
- A pattern for loose-fitting children’s overalls (e.g. “Garden Lovers” Dungarees)
- Light to medium-weight lined softshell for the overalls (amount as specified in the pattern)
- 40 cm of color-coordinated elastic (2.5 cm wide)
- Optional: 30 cm of nylon or similar water-resistant fabric for facings
- 30 cm of reflective softshell or similar unlined fabric for the straps
- Two anorak snap fasteners or closures of your choice (e.g., buckles)
- BERNINA 540
- Edgestitch Foot #10
Choosing the Right Material
Softshell is simply perfect for outdoor clothing—it is water-resistant, windproof, and comfortably warm. For this project, I chose lightly lined softshell, ideal for autumn and winter. The material is lightweight and easy to work with without being too thick or stiff. Another advantage of softshell is that it does not fray, so no finishing is needed. Compared to corduroy or denim, which absorb moisture and mud quickly, softshell is much easier to maintain and stays dry in wet weather.
Modifications for sewing the Outdoor Overalls
To make the Garden Lovers Overalls truly suitable for outdoor activities in wet weather, a few modifications to the original instructions were necessary. One of the most important changes was the straps. Normally, the straps are made from the same fabric as the rest of the overalls, but since lined softshell is quite thick, I decided to sew the straps from unlined reflective softshell and attach them with anorak snaps (one per strap).
This reflective softshell not only increases visibility in low-light and rainy conditions but is also thinner, making sewing and turning the straps much easier.
Instructions for the Straps
For this hack, I did not sew the elastic bands into the straps as specified in the original pattern. Instead, I attached the elastic bands directly to the straps and the back bib, shifting the strap positions slightly toward the center back. This adjustment worked well and provided a better fit for the straps.
Here, I’ll explain step by step how I modified the straps for the Garden Lovers Overalls.
You Will Need:
- 2 x 13 cm elastic bands (2.5 cm wide)
- 4 strips of reflective softshell (unlined or similar outdoor fabric) measuring 26 cm x 5 cm
These measurements are based on the Garden Lovers pattern in size 116. If you are using a different pattern or sewing a different size, you may need to adjust the strap length accordingly.
Sewing the Straps
Take two strips of reflective softshell each, place them right sides together, and secure them with fabric clips. Sew the long sides and one short side together using a straight stitch with a 1 cm seam allowance. Leave the seam allowance open at the unfinished side as well.
Trimming and Turning the Straps
Trim the seam allowances and corners to remove excess fabric. Then turn the straps right side out and shape the corners neatly.
Reinforcing the Straps
Fold the closed end of the straps up by 6 cm and secure it with fabric clips. Fold the seam allowances inward at the open ends and fix them as well.
Topstitching the Straps
Topstitch the closed sides of the straps close to the edge. This works particularly well with an Edgestitch Foot #10. Secure the folded end with an additional topstitch. This reinforcement ensures that the closures hold firmly later.
Inserting the Elastic Bands
Insert the elastic bands about 1 cm into the open ends of the straps and secure them with a straight stitch.
Attaching the Straps to the Overalls
The finished straps can now be attached to the overalls as described in the sewing instructions, using a 1 cm seam allowance. I chose to use anorak snap fasteners placed within the reinforced areas, but you can also use regular buttons or overall buckles. Additionally, I positioned the straps closer to the center back to improve the fit, as the elastic is narrower than the original straps.
Facings Made from Nylon Fabric
For the facings of the pants, I used thin waterproof nylon fabric because lined softshell seemed too thick for this purpose. Using softshell for the facings would have resulted in bulky side seams on the bib. Nylon is not only lighter but also sturdy enough to ensure a clean finish without adding unnecessary thickness. This keeps the pants comfortable to wear and gives them a polished appearance.
Reflective Piping in the Side Seams
To improve visibility in bad weather, I incorporated reflective piping into the side seams and topstitched a rectangle of reflective softshell onto the hem edge. The reflective elements not only enhance safety but also add eye-catching details. They give the pants a stylish look that stands out, especially in the dark or during poor weather conditions.
Elastic in the Hem
I inserted a 2 cm wide elastic band into the hem, as also suggested as an option in the Garden Lovers pattern. The elastic ensures that the hem fits snugly around the legs and rain boots, preventing it from riding up onto the shoes or dragging in the mud. Another practical feature for wet days!
Perfect for the Playground – But Not a Mud Suit!
This version of the “Garden Lovers”-Dungerees is ideal for outdoor activities and playground visits in wet weather.
My son has thoroughly tested these pants in daily life: they are his constant companion at daycare, especially on “outdoor days.” They also proved their worth during New Year’s Eve fireworks in drizzle and strong wind, and of course, on the playground. They provide protection from moisture and dirt while remaining comfortable and easy to wear. Softshell is water-resistant and handles light rain and damp ground well.
However, I want to emphasize: These are not mud pants! Your child can play, run, and romp around in them, but softshell is simply not suited for splashing in puddles.
The Result: Perfect for Cold, Wet Weather!
With these modifications, my Garden Lovers Overalls are now not only comfortable but also functional for outdoor wear in wet conditions. The reflective details ensure my little one is visible even in low light, and the added warmth makes them the ideal choice for colder months. I usually have my son wear joggers or thermal leggings underneath. The fit of the pants allows enough room for an extra layer without feeling restrictive—so outdoor adventures in cold weather are no problem!
Conclusion:
I’m really happy with our Garden Lovers Overalls in their outdoor version! They not only serve their original purpose but, thanks to these small modifications, are now also suitable for wet weather. My son can wear them on rainy days without me worrying about cold or wet legs!
Extra Tip: If this has inspired you to sew your own Garden Lovers Overalls with an outdoor upgrade, check out the pattern in my shop!
Would you be interested in more pattern hacks like this? Let me know in the comments!
Yours,
Sonja
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