[Enbee]

I’m going to make a PJ top from this pattern – right now my son fits well into the 18-24mo size as a shirt, but it’s a little roomier than his RTW PJ tops. I was thinking I’d try to match the fit of my favorite of his current pajamas, which would involve making the body of the shirt narrower by about 3/4 in (the sleeves are also more close-fitting). However, the shoulder of this particular top is as wide as the 18-24mo School Bus tee. So I don’t want to do a straight size down. Can I use the 18-24mo shoulder width, but then narrow the sides of the shirt under the armscye to the 12-18mo width, and then use the 12-18mo armscye and sleeves?

[Lightning McStitch]

To achieve that, I would cut the exact same size again, but sew the side/sleeve seam with a bigger seam allowance.
An extra 1/4″ seam allowance will take 1/2 an inch off the sleeve circumference and a full inch off the chest/body.
Saves on retracing the pattern in another size.

[Enbee]

Genius! This is why I post things here – you guys have all the best tricks, by which I mean a boatload more sewing experience than me.

(Incidentally, I’m totally taking your advice on my question about the FT Cargoes just as soon as the fabric I ordered for them gets here.)

[Enbee]

This advice worked perfectly – thanks!