This May, I am on a personal quest to bust my stash and also to remake all my favourite patterns. So in that spirit, we will be sharing hacks/mods/adaptations and fun versions of our patterns in a series of blog posts with the theme of "Re-made May". Today's focus is on our Kalle Shirt Shirtdress; not only is it one of our bestselling patterns, but it also seems to be one of the most re-made as well. Almost everyone featured here prefaced their Kalle posts by saying, "this is my 5th Kalle".
Herein, I have gathered a whole bunch of little easy hacks to this classic pattern so that you too can get the absolute most out of Kalle.
ADD LENGTH

The Kalle Shirtdress comes in three different lengths but it is one of the easiest things to change if you need even more options! Depending on how you are finishing things you just need to change the front and back pieces and the button placket. Belting it gives it entirely different silhouette too, what's easier than that?
CHANGE THE HEM LINE

The Kalle features a dramatic high low hem which again, is super easy to change! Straightening it, shortening or lengthening these hemlines gives you entirely different pattern. Just make sure everything lines up at your side seams but other than that, GO TO TOWN!
ADD POCKETS

We all know three of the best words in the English language are, "it has pockets". Here are a few examples of both patch pockets (with and without flaps) and inseam side pockets. Either work with the design. You can even add two breast pockets (included with pattern) if you need extra room for your tools!
POCKET DETAILS

We are all about a special detail and there is no easier place to add a ton of personality than a breast pocket! Have fun with contract fabric, embroidery, or just take extra special care with your topstitching. No hack needed!
ADD PIPING

These two sewists are obviously next level sewing ninjas (the fabric matching on that floral!??) But adding a bit of piping on the collar, cuffs, or back yoke gives a neat detail to this design that really changes the vibe without a whole lot of work.
PLACKET? HACK IT!

Whether it be contrast fabric or simple button placement there are tons of things you can customize on your placket without changing any pattern pieces. And if you make adorable matching outfits for your entire family for New Year's using this pattern, and you do not share a picture with us, WE WILL BE MAD.
MOD THAT COLLAR

Round out the collar points! Add ruffles! Or a big ole' pussy bow! Is it the same shirt pattern even? You tell me.
GET DIRECTIONAL

This idea is my favourite for the sheer simplicity of it. All you need to do to make a unique and super interesting shirt is to have fun with fabric placement! Giving a little to thought as to how to lay out your pieces when you're cutting your fabric can really change the look of the garment without any mods at all.
OUT OF THE BOX

These sewists really got creative. Back elastic, snaps, embroidery and a men's version for her twin brother, standing ovation.
Hope you are inspired to make some shirts, dresses and tunics! When you do...don't forget to show us using the#kalleshirtdress hashtag!