Tutorial Review - Stardust Baby Shoes

After creating the baby shoes I posted about earlier, I was hooked! I decided to see what other tutes I could find out there to try. I came across Stardust Baby Shoes which look very similar to the On Pins and Needles shoes. The patterns however are somewhat different. I actually think that mixing the techniques would create a perfect pattern.... Here are my thoughts on the Stardust Shoes:

Difficulty Level: Advanced Beginner /Intermediate - Pretty much the same as the other pattern. These too were very simple to construct, however the pinning and sewing around the circular edges can be challenging although this pattern gives a 1/4" seam allowance which makes it a bit easier.

Would I recommend it?
YES! Get sewing - they are fun to make.

TIPS: I used fusible fleece to the top lining as well as the sole. It just makes it a bit more plush. Also, I sewed buttonholes around the slits for the elastic to prevent tearing (which I was surprised wasn't in the directions).

So which pattern do I prefer?
I think both patterns have their pluses. Since both end products look pretty much the same, it's all in the construction. I think the heel pattern in the On Pins and Needles pattern is easier to sew, however it doesn't have finished seams where the elastic exits which can cause fraying later on. I really like the top stitching that the Stardust tute suggests for the top of the shoe, it makes for a cleaner look. And as I mentioned above, the Stardust shoe offers a generous seam allowance which makes for much easier sewing. Ideally I'd make a combination of the two, but if I had to choose one, I'd recommend the Stardust Shoes first.