Helen's Closet Yanta Overalls

I have made three pairs of Yanta Overalls now and they all get alot of wear. My first pair was in a medium weight linen (although these showed wear quite quickly) and the second and third pairs were in denim which i think worked best for this pattern. This pattern is special to me because as a fairly new sewist this was the very first more 'intermediate' type of pattern I attempted. There are a few more challenging aspects to the make for a beginner. For me I'm short (5ft2) and needed to shorted the pattern at multiple points; attention is needed to get the rise the correct length to avoid the dungaree 'hungry bum' situation; and the button holes and the beautiful back detailing took me a bit of time and concentration to get right. I would say though that Heln's instructions are so so clear and helpful that it felt like a very supportive pattern to try these more challenging techniques with. I recommend this pattern to anyone looking for a classic dungaree and especially to any new sewists looking to build skills as Helen's instructions are like having a knowledgeable sewing friend right in the room with you. Ten out of ten!

I am a big fan of overalls, something I never thought I would say a couple of years ago and these ones didn't disappoint. Helen's instructions are very clear and easy to follow and they are stylish and comfy. Also if you are a fan of pockets (I certainly am) there are enough for anyone's needs. I have a blog post with more photos and details: https://wordpress.com/post/jennylovestosew.wordpress.com/1849

I’ve made both the long and short versions and they fit really. A loose fitting design that works with different body types, shaped to go in at the waist, but still loads of room. I took mine in at the waist so needed a zip to get them on. I made the shorts a bit longer so I’m happy to go out shopping in them. Mine are both stash busting makes in lightweight denim type fabrics for summer, but heavier fabrics would be fine as well, including needle cord up to jumbo cord. I’ve even wondered about using the pattern to make a pinafore

I LOVE this pattern. When I initially set out to make them I was a bit nervous that it was going to be challenging and they would end up not fitting but Helen has the BEST instructions and it was SO EASY a very beginner sewist could make these!

I love all of the pockets, I love the darts on the sides, I love everything about these. I first made the long pants version I am 5'4 and shortened them 1" just in the leg, I didn't make any alterations to the shorts version. I used bull denim for both pairs and I was very pleased that my shorts version matches my dog!

My measurements are B: 35" W: 28" H: 36" and I made a size 6 and I think they have the perfect amount of ease that I would want.

I really enjoyed sewing my Yanta overalls and would definitely recommend the pattern! The instructions are really thorough, and everything went together easily. I liked the fact that the instructions include directions to topstitch most of the main seams, which I think gives a more professional finish.

I didn't want the waist to be quite as loose as intended in the pattern, so I blended between sizes and used a 12 at the bust, 10 at the waist and 14 at the hips (my measurements put me in a 12 bust and 14 waist/hips). I also lengthened the body section and straps by an inch, and the trousers by 2 inches - I'm 5'9" and I also wanted the trousers to be full length rather than the slightly cropped length in the pattern.

The fabric I used is an 8oz washed denim and it's just what I wanted for this project - weighty enough for autumn/winter without being at all stiff.

I've already worn them twice in the couple of days since I finished them, and I'm thinking of making a more colourful version so they're definitely a success!

More photos and details on my blog here: http://nightingaleanddolittle.blogspot.com/2020/11/helens-closet-yanta-overalls.html