Merino Wool Hoodie – Patterns for Pirates Raglan Pattern Review

I love wool! People often think of scratchy, heavy, hot sweaters when they hear that but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Merino wool is thin and breathable, adapting to your body temperature so it can be worn year round. Unfortunately, it seems to only be used in higher-end sweaters in more classic styles and underlayer sports clothes, both at high prices. I want more options! I actually sewed this up as a gift for a friend, but I couldn’t resist trying it on and decided to share my thoughts about the pattern.

This is the Relaxed Fit Raglan & Add-on pack* from Patterns for Pirates. I received a copy of the pattern for free, shown here, a while ago, but all opinions are my own. They are having a “raglan week” in their Facebook group, which is what finally prompted me to get this post written, so go check out the details and contest!

Different options in the base pattern include: sleeves (short, 3/4 hemmed and banded, long hemmed and banded), hem (hemmed and banded, curved hem, tunic length hemmed or banded), and also triangle and elbow patches.

The add-on pack options include:  hood, cross-over funnel hood, funnel collar, button up funnel collar, ruched funnel collar, cowl neck, kangaroo pocket, inseam pockets and thumb hole cuffs.

My measurements put me in a medium but my friend is smaller, so I sewed up a small. The fit is a bit snug, of course, but I’m sharing fit pictures anyways.

Who loves a sweatshirt that pairs with leggings? Everyone. Butt coverage, for the win.

My son is disturbed by the thumb holes, for some reason, but I find them delightful. I’m sure whoever designed them had some sporty purpose in mind, but really they just keep my hands warm when I’m driving my mini-van.

I added some twill tape (super cheap on Amazon!*) to stabilize the neckline and stamped it with fabric ink for a personalized touch.

This might be one of my favorite gifts, ever, the recipient also loves wool so I knew it would be appreciated. I need to sew my own, if I could ever snag more wool yardage! I like the drape of this fabric much better than the thick terry sweat I used in this version, it looks and feels more youthful.

 

Pattern: Relaxed Fit Raglan & Add-ons* from Patterns for Pirates in size small

My Measurements at time of making: 36/28.5/36

Price & Sizing: XS-XXXL (Bust size 30-54) – $17 (can purchase base shirt & add-on separately)

Changes I made: None

Fabric I used: A merino wool jersey, no longer available but a designer remnant from Fabric Mart

What I might do if I make it again:

I’ll be making a medium, for myself, and will entertain the idea of adding a kangaroo pocket on the front.

Overall thoughts on the garment:

Again, fit doesn’t count since I didn’t make it for me, but I still adore this hoodie. Extra long sleeves and thumb-holes are totally my jam.

Overall thoughts on the pattern:

Patterns for Pirates uses photographs instead of digital illustrations, which I strongly prefer. It’s easy to follow, didn’t find any errors, and matched up easily.

Other versions I found online:

• Funnel neck & hoodie from All Sewn Up by Stacey
• Cowl neck and hoodie by Sewing by Ti
• Lots of photos in their Facebook group