Children’s dungarees patterns

Choosing a PDF pattern for children’s dungarees: what really differs from one design to another

Dungarees are probably the best value item to sew yourself for children. A 3-year-old will wear out a pair of low-end denim dungarees in two seasons. A version sewn from 240 g/m² cotton twill with felled seams and double-stitched seams lasts twice as long, and the straps can be lengthened over the months without having to remake the whole garment. It is one of the few items of children’s clothing where homemade sewing objectively beats ready-to-wear in terms of lifespan.

Babies or toddlers: two types of dungaree patterns with contrasting requirements

For babies aged 0 to 18 months, the crotch fastening is not merely an aesthetic detail. Good patterns for this size range incorporate 3 to 5 press studs in the crotch, depending on the size. Without them, changing a nappy in long dungarees is akin to a combat sport. From the age of 2–3, when the child is partially toilet-trained, the priority shifts to independence when getting dressed: adjustable drawstring straps that require no tools, and a side opening wide enough for the child to slip them on by themselves.

These two requirements are truly incompatible within a single pattern. A design intended for 3-month-olds has no reason to be well-suited for 4-year-olds, and vice versa. Always check the actual size range specified by the designer, not just the age range, which often serves as a rough guide.

The factors that determine the actual difficulty of a PDF pattern for children’s dungarees

A pattern advertised as ‘beginner level’ may conceal specific pitfalls: the way the bib is attached to the body of the trousers (a simple seam versus a double-folded seam), the inclusion of a side cargo pocket which adds 4 to 6 extra pieces to assemble, or the fitting of press studs, which requires a suitable tool (a rivet plier or hammer, depending on the system).

• Number of pieces: a simple design has between 6 and 8 pieces, whilst a design with cargo pockets and turn-ups has between 12 and 16 pieces
• Seam allowance: the vast majority of French patterns include 1 cm; check before cutting
• File format: A4 to assemble (20 to 35 pages to stick together, no cost) or A0 to print at a print shop (€2 to €4 depending on the shop, considerable time saving)
• Measurement guide: opt for a pattern that specifies measured waist and hip circumferences rather than just an approximate age

Fabric and thread: the choices that determine the lifespan of a hand-sewn dungaree

200 to 240 g/m² cotton twill remains the most versatile fabric for this type of garment. It retains its shape after washing at 40°C, can be ironed to flatten the felled seams, and withstands repeated rubbing on the knees and bottom reasonably well. Lightweight denim, between 6 and 8 oz, is suitable for short summer versions worn for a few hours a day. For long dungarees worn from October to April, you need at least 10 to 12 oz; otherwise, the fabric will start to pucker at the knees by the third week.

Fine-ribbed corduroy, at around 210 g/m², is a good autumn-winter option provided you use an 80/12 stretch needle to prevent snags on the ribs. Avoid overly thick corduroy on dungarees with crossed straps at the back: the crotch seam becomes difficult to iron neatly.

For thread, 120 polyester is recommended for all load-bearing seams: the crotch, shoulder strap attachments and loops. 100% cotton thread wears out more quickly due to repeated friction in these areas, even though it gives a finish that is slightly closer to that of natural fabrics.

What the designers of this collection have to offer

Several brands featured here have developed a serious approach to the construction of children’s dungarees. Le Papa de Jojo specialises exclusively in gender-neutral designs, with sizes ranging from 2 to 10 years, and provides written instructions accompanied by technical diagrams. Klafoutis is renowned within the sewing community for the clarity of its step-by-step photographic tutorials, which are particularly useful when tackling a belt loop or double-button fastening for the first time. Maya Patterns regularly includes several length variations in the same file, which offers excellent value for money if you’re sewing multiple sizes in the same season.

If you’re a beginner and looking for a pattern with no surprises, opt for one with a detailed video or photo tutorial rather than a text-only pattern. Fitting press studs, in particular, is much clearer with a visual demonstration.

Pairing children’s dungarees with a hand-sewn T-shirt

Dungarees work best with a fitted T-shirt, ideally made from cotton jersey with 5 to 8% elastane, which moves with you without riding up under the bib. A T-shirt that’s too loose creates an unflattering puffy effect and restricts arm movement. To complete your creations and sew matching outfits, take a look at our selection of PDF sewing patterns for children’s T-shirts, several of which are available in the same size ranges as the dungarees in this collection.

Other items pair naturally with the dungarees depending on the season: a children’s jacket for the mid-seasons, a children’s coat for winter, or children’s pyjamas if you’re looking to put together a complete hand-sewn wardrobe. Children’s trouser patterns often use the same construction techniques in the crotch area, making them a good next step after your first successful pair of dungarees.