If I tell you: a shape that we would recognize among a thousand, a pattern that can be declined (almost) to infinity, and two little ears to slip into the hood, you tell me? Big Dipper of course! This ikatee wardrobe staple is one of your favorites. And with autumn, which seems to be well established (and the heating well cut off!), this is an opportunity for us to (re)present the many facets of this pattern.
This unisex model with raglan sleeves is available in two lengths, with or without a hood, and three options for the ears: rabbit, reindeer antlers, or bear. For older children, you could also imagine making a very simple version without ears of course. The advantage of this pattern is that you can sew it again and again without getting tired of it: it will turn into a coat, a slightly thick jacket, raincoat, bathrobe, double-breasted vest and why not a school blouse. It is also the great birth gift that you will love to give to future parents.
The Grand'Ourse pattern is available in PDF or paper folder format, for babies from 6 months to 4 years old, and for children from 3 to 12 years old.
Little looks
In wool or corduroy for a pretty autumnal version
In terry knit for a bath outing
Version jacket without hood or sweatshirt to go to nursery and school, or in hacked version for a small protective coat in oilcloth
The essential Grand'Ourse in sherpa-lined suede. Find the tutorial with all our tips for making this model in the dedicated tutorial
Waxed version in raincoat and marinière. Quilted or sherpa-lined velvet
Thanks to @manon.gbn, @milkandfabric, @mom.and.her.son, @jesskanisse, @petits_baisers, @labo_isa, @hellohenry__, @wait_and_sew, @audrey.choubidoo, @clairemortegoutte, and @brizane, for their talent and their creativity. Find other pretty versions with #ikateegrandourse.
Sewing tips
This pattern is easy level. Depending on the version you choose, this project can be sewn very quickly (2h). In sherpa-lined suede, you won't need finishing: the edges can remain straight, the fabric won't fray. You could also imagine finishing your garment with bias binding, or lining it entirely. This model has a detailed video tutorial that will help you assemble it. And if you wish, you can also sew small matching mittens thanks to our free pattern.
You can sew Grand'Ourse in knit: plain or printed sweatshirt, terry knit, French Terry, sherpa, fleece, fleece. Or in warp and weft: wool, corduroy, quilted fabric. And for a waterproof version, you can choose oilcloth or softshell!
Think of bias for the finishes, coordinated sewing thread and buttons for the opening. You can sew two labels, one for the size, and one to add a sweet note. And why not add one of our small iron-on patches to personalize your project to the end.
