Next up is my new favorite pattern – the York Pinafore from Helen’s Closet. After perusing the #yorkpinafore tag on Instagram for weeks, I finally took the plunge. Definitely check it out for inspo!
The whole pinafore look has been trending recently, with many indie pattern companies releasing similar-ish styles – here’s the round up!
- Helen’s Closet – York Pinafore
- Tilly and the Buttons – Cleo Pinafore
- Seamwork – Dani Pinafore
- Sew House Seven – Burnhouse Bibs
I sewed my first #yorkpinafore with some leftover lightweight cream denim, that I later dyed with RIT powder in Wine. I’ll have to post some pictures on the blog/insta later!
I was so pleased with how the first pinafore came out that I had to make another one for the holiday season, and convinced my cousin to make one as well for some Christmas card photos! The blog post today shows my second make with a soft and cozy flannel from Joann Fabrics. Pretty worth it at about $4/yard!
The pattern was pretty much perfect! I shortened the hem as it is intended for taller people. I only needed about 1.5 yards for the entire dress, and had plenty leftover. I chose the shorter view with a higher neckline, which is a combination of view A and view B. Other options include a crew neck versus a scoop neck, a midi versus a mini length, and a kangaroo versus two patch pockets.
With the patch pockets, I had a little trouble getting the perfect curve while ironing but I feel like I’ll get better at that with practice.
I’m super proud of my pattern matching here! the pockets and the side seams were nearly perfect – 100% worth the extra time. I finished the edges with french seams as well to prevent any fraying for a more professional look. Hopefully one day I’ll be able to invest in an overlocker, but for now I’ll spend the extra time doing french seams. Here’s a link to an awesome french seam tutorial here from Grainline Studio. The pattern also uses a good amount of bias tape, so in the future I would maybe make my own bias tape instead of buying pre-made bias tape. I foresee another York Pinafore in a lightweight neutral linen in the future 🙂

Overall impression: Great pattern for beginners and if you want to practice pattern matching! Easy to wear, required almost no adjustments. Plus, pockets. Huge pockets.
PS if you’re looking for a fun holiday card backdrop in Houston, check out this fun Rose Mural located at 1213 Maury St. We followed the recommendations of another local blog, It’s Not Hou It’s Me, link here! Fun props purchased at Target, all under $5 each.
Check out my insta @danicadoesit for some fun time-lapse sewing!!
3 thoughts on “York Pinafore review: the gift that keeps on giving”