It seems like school just let out not many weeks ago, but now it's getting close to school starting again.  Here school starts very early, like mid August, and I'm sure there are a lot of people out there getting patterns, fabric, etc ready to start on the fall school clothes.

Children grow out of their clothes so fast - they hardly have time to wear holes in the knees, etc, so this post is all about ways to make those garments last through TWO seasons, or two school years.

*When making jumpers with straps for girls, or the 'overall' look for boys, make the straps about 2 inches longer than called for.  This leaves space for extra buttons for next years' taller child.

*An extra deep hem can be put into dresses and skirts to be let down later.  A machine-basted tuck can be put in just above the hemline for lengthening later.

*For girls' blouses, an inverted pleat can be put into sleeves, whether the sleeve is plain or puffed.  If the sleeve is cuffed, make the cuff an inch bigger and add an extra button to allow for extra room next year.

*An inverted pleat in the back of blouses and dresses will make a slightly looser fitting garment now, but will allow for the growth over the year, so the blouse or dress can be worn again next school year.

*Cut the blouses an inch or two longer than the pattern suggests to allow for the next years' taller child.

*Make slacks hems a couple inches longer than needed right now, double fold the hem for stitching.  Next year you can simply take down one of the hems, and you'll once again have the length you need.

If you have any other little tips to go along with these, please pass them along, as I'm sure every mother around would like to extend the seasons of their childs' clothes!