Fleece Toddler Slippers Tutorial and Pattern: Size 7/8

Without Tabs

Thanks for being patient as I've put this pattern together.  The pattern, I'm sure, is less than perfect, but hopefully it will be helpful as you make some warm slippers for your favorite little feet.

First things first.  You will want to go and print off the pattern pieces.  You can download the pattern here, this is an updated file so hopefully you won't have any problems with it. You will want to make sure that you print the pattern pieces without scaling the images.  There is a one inch test square on each pattern paper, check it to ensure that it is scaled properly. (Slipper size 10/11 here, slippers size 5/6 here-See original pattern for pattern marking key).

With Tabs

                                    

On the pattern  you will notice a dashed line that runs along the slipper upper "tongue".  I decided to try out the slippers without the tongue/tab, because I thought that it might make the slippers a bit more gender neutral.  If you decide to make the slippers with the tongue, follow the basic instructions below, following the shape of the shoe as you stitch.  If you choose to sew the slippers without the tab, simply clip off the extra tab when cutting out your pattern pieces.

Find the full tutorial below.

                                        

Once you have collected your pattern pieces you will want to cut out one exterior and one lining piece per slipper. The easiest way to do this is to cut out your pattern pieces with your fabric folded in half right sides together. Pin your upper slipper pattern pieces to the fleece, and cut out two at a time.  This will give you two pieces, one facing each direction.  If you are lining your slipper with a different colored fleece then you will want to repeat this process on your remaining fleece color for the lining. If you are using the same fleece for your exterior and lining pieces, make another set of slipper uppers.  Cut out two sets of fleece soles following the same process. You will end up with four upper pattern pieces, and four slipper sole pieces.

Pin both sets of slipper upper linings to slipper upper exterior pieces, with right sides together.  Pin together both sets of slipper soles with wrong sides together.

Using 1/4 inch seam allowances, sew around slipper soles, and along the inner edges (between triangles) of the slipper upper.  Trim edges.  Clip sharp corners (carefully) to stitching line.

Turn slipper uppers right sides out.  Pin along raw edges.

Edge stitch/stay stitch around the entire perimeter of slipper upper, securing open edges. Stitch 1/8" away from all edges.  Attach sew on velcro at designated markings.  I recommend using a reinforcement stitch to attach velcro closures.  Make sure that you attach the velcro to the bottom side of the strap, and the top side of the slipper upper main.

Match up dots on slipper upper.  Pin in place.  Machine baste  together. 

To add some grip to your slippers, you can use three dimensional fabric paint to provide a bit of traction to the bottom of the soles.  I ended up making a Spiderman logo and some dots.

This can be done now, or after finishing the slippers.  Take into account that the puff paint will need several hours to dry.  The bottle said four, but my thick spider needed more like fourteen.

To attach the slipper upper to the sole you will want to turn the slipper upper inside out. With the bottom of the sole facing upward (see grippers), pin the slipper upper in place.  Match up center backs.  Pin around the entire slipper. Pull the strap out of the way to avoid stitching it into the seam allowance.

                                          

Using 1/4" seam allowances (or 3/8" for slightly smaller slipper) stitch around the slipper.  Trim seam.  

 Turn slippers right sides out. Enjoy some nice warm toes.

Clark loves his new Spidey slippers.  Do you?

They even stay on his feet while he is running around.  If your child has a narrower heel, you could consider attaching a bit of elastic to the back of the heel.

To dress it up  you can consider hand sewing a button on top of the velcro closure.  You could also make some cute fleece flowers, or add some beading, trim, or sequins to your little girl's pair.

I'll be linking here.