She decided on a bobby soxer, so I'm about to cut out the poodle skirt. I got off really easy there, the pattern gave all the pieces to make the poodle, butI actually found the exact applique from Wrights, already made. Whew! I just got my new machine last Thursday, I'm still learning all the bells and whistles, I'm not sure about sewing the applique on, the lady in the fabric dept. at Wal-Mart told me to use that fabric glue. This will also be my first zipper, although I also bought pink velcro in case I have to improvise.
I feel your pain about the "itchies". I'm so glad I found the distressed leather looking fabric at Wal-Mart. DD had originally picked out a brown gabardine blend at Hancock. I started the costume using the adult size, the lady at Hobby Lobby told me that patterns run so much off that the kids (4-8) would be too small for her. Well, guess what? The ladies small looked too big for me when I stitched up the pants. So, back to the drawing board. The size 8 worked perfect. My only problem was with the shirt cuffs, so I simply put elastic instead. The pirate is finished now (yippee) so my biggest challenge is behind me. I wish I could post a picture here of it, but alas, I have no clue how to do so.