KwikSew 4138 Pinafore Sewing Pattern Review

Welp, here I go continuing on my handmade journey. I’ve said here before how extremely limited my summer wardrobe is. Last year, however, there was one denim pinafore from Forever 21 that I wore to DEATH (and still do) because of it’s versatility and casual-cool vibe. Going into this season, I knew I wanted to make a few more overall and pinafore options for myself since it’s naturally a style that I gravitate towards and that works for me.

Enter the Kwik Sew 4138. After seeing a few versions of both views floating around on Instagram, I knew this was a pattern I had to try. I originally wanted to make the overalls version, but ultimately felt like the fabric I chose was too thin for me to be comfortable wearing it as pants. So, I instead went with the pinafore view A.

When I first saw this honeycomb denim at JoAnn Fabrics, my initial thought was “Who would buy that?!”. I HATED it! But after passing it several times over the course of a few months it started to grow on me, and one day I looked at it and thought “I would TOTALLY buy that!” I think it’s really funny how tastes can change and how quickly what we perceive as our personal style can evolve. I also have to say that it is super lightweight and comfortable to wear in the summer heat, and it was a breeze to sew with. I’m already thinking of using it for another project.

Admittedly, I had difficulty reading and understanding the pattern instructions. I’m a very visual learner, and personally need more illustrations or photos. It helped to read through the instructions a few times before executing to get a better idea for why I was doing each step. Still, I prefer patterns that offer a little more hand-holding

This was my first time adding a button hole and buttons in a noticeable place and I was very nervous! After several practice rounds on some scraps, I think it turned out pretty good! I wish they were more even, but I’m not stressed out about it since you can’t even tell unless you’re looking for it (which I’m sure you are now that I mentioned it!). Bonus – I found out my Singer has a function that allows me to machine stitch buttons as well…after I sewed them on very sloppily by hand. Ah, well. At least it was only two buttons and now I know for next time.

Funny thing about notions. I have a whole caboodle full of buttons and figured I would have something that would work for the straps…which naturally means that I didn’t. So, I got creative and just stole them off of a cardigan I only wear opened around the house. Ironically, the main reason I bought it in the first place was because I liked the buttons. I’m glad they get to have a new life. I didn’t even think about the button for the back and really wish I had. I just went for a random clear button I just happened to have lying around.

The straps were a bit of an issue for me and it’s my own fault. I was ready to be DONE, so I didn’t even adjust these. Just slapped them right the hell on! Luckily, they aren’t toooo long, but there is a bit of extra length on the front below the button hole. I actually don’t mind how it looks though, I think it adds a more laid-back vibe.

Out of the whole outfit, the back is my least favorite part. I struggle with inserting zippers no matter how many YouTube tutorials I watch! I’m glad that the zip and button closure are functional, but I wish the finished product was much neater. It’s my “spotlight” area – even though I know NO ONE is looking at it, I still feel like there’s a giant spotlight on this one flawed section and that everyone is secretly laughing at it. I guess that’s kind of in the same category as imposter syndrome. It’s so silly to feel that way, but I think it’s something a lot of people have felt about one thing or another. I’m human, ok?

I have a love/hate relationship with this outfit. Some days I feel easy going and summery, but most of the time I just feel like a 12 year old trying to dress like Belle from Beauty and the Beast. As I approach my 30’s…not exactly the look I’m going for. Overall, I’m happy with how this piece turned out. I just don’t think it’s very “me” or my style. I will definitely be making it again though, and I already have the pieces for view B cut out and ready to sew!

Let you know how it turns out!

-XO-

C

DETAILS:

PATTERN: Kwik Sew 4138 View A

FABRIC: Distressed Honeycomb Denim from JoAnn Fabrics

NOTIONS: Navy enamel painted metal buttons (cut off an old cardigan), clear button on back from stash, zipper from Joann Fabrics

SIZE: I made a size S. The waist is true to size and fits perfectly.

ADJUSTMENTS: None…but if I could go back in time I would have shortened the bib about 1/2″ and shortened the straps about 2″.

KNOWLEDGE OBTAINED: Inseam pockets, adding straps, button hole stitch, & hand sewing buttons.

OUTFIT DETAILS: Daisy Sunnies, watch, sneakers (similar)