[Bonnie]

Hi I’m thinking of making the school days jacket for my 2 1/2 year old granddaughter. I love the look of the toggle closure on the turquoise jacket. But I question how they will hold up. And where to even get those exact closures. I only have a Joann’s near me. Also I feel they would also need snaps to insure the coat stays closed. And that’s a lot of work to get a 2 1/2 year old into a jacket. So I’m thinking of just using buttons and or snaps without the tabs I’ve seen in some photos. Has anyone done that? Are there photos?

Last question has to do with sizing. I’ve read some comments that this jacket runs large. And I’m wondering if I should size down since I want her to wear it now. I plan to make the jacket with a med/heavy weight flannel outer, Joann luxe fleece lining (med/heavy weight) and a Thinsulate or thin cotton batting underlining.

Thanks for your help

[Lightning McStitch]

Hi Bonnie,
I’ve seen it done with toggles, buttons and even a zipper.
As for sizing and closure tips if you click on the School Days Coat subforum (where you’ve correctly posed your question) you’ll find lots of info.

I always liked making my kids their true size. It was a bit big immediately, a perfect fit the following winter and a wee bit small but wearable the year after. Obviously that depends on how fast they’re growing and limb length!

Personally I found the toggles to be ideal for kids and the only tip is to use poly cord (like paracord) rather than leather thonging. Kids will love fiddling with the toggles and twisting them and leather won’t last.

Have fun, you’ll be delighted with the outcome.

[Bonnie]

Thanks. And I thought I was posting in the proper forum. Then again, I’ve found this a difficult message board to maneuver.

[Todd Gibson]

You did post correctly. But @lightningmcstitch is suggesting that you review past discussion threads for this pattern to see if someone has posted something about this already. You can find all the posts on that pattern with this link:

oliver + s: school days