Now that there are two lovely bonnet patterns in our collection, we thought it would be helpful to do a comparison of the Riverstone Bonnet and the Evergreen Bonnet. There are some considerable differences in the design and construction of the two, which we will explain here. However, there are also ways to use elements between the two patterns, with some slight modification to the pattern pieces.
The Riverstone and Evergreen Bonnets: a Comparison
First, let's take a little peek at the differences between the Riverstone Bonnet and the Evergreen Bonnet. In the comparison photo below, it is quite apparent that the shape of the bonnet around the face had to change substantially to accommodate a longer, deeper brim. The Evergreen comes down further on the forehead, and has quite a curved shape. The lines on the Riverstone are straighter, but it still has a lovely overall head shape because of the side pleats.
The construction method varies quite a lot between the two patterns. The Evergreen is sewn with right sides together, then turned out and topstitched. The Riverstone is finished with the right sides out and bias-bound edges, meaning that there is no need to turn and topstitch the bonnet. It is likely that some people will prefer one method over the other - some find the turning step to be a bit fiddly, while others may not enjoy sewing with bias binding. Both result in a neat, fully-reversible finish.
Here is a summary of the features of each bonnet:
| Riverstone | Evergreen | |
| Construction | Finished right-side-out with bias binding | Sewed right sides together, turned, and topstitched |
| Shaping | Side pleat | Optional back elastic |
| Brim | Deep brim, half and full options, or no brim | Peak or no brim |
| Fastener | Ties or chin strap | Chin-strap, self-tie, ties, or no fastener |
| Lining | Fully lined, reversible | Fully lined, reversible |
| Ears | Not included, but compatible | Included |
| Fabric | Multi-season options | Multi-season options |
Mashing the Riverstone and the Evergreen
There are several ways that the Riverstone and Evergreen can be used together, however some require making changes to the pattern pieces due to the differences in shape and construction method.
Adding ears to the Riverstone Bonnet:
This is the simplest change, as no modifications are needed whatsoever. Ears from the Evergreen Bonnet may be added to the Riverstone with no alterations. In fact, ears from any of the garments in our Animal Collection may be used.
Adding the Evergreen peak to the Riverstone Bonnet:
The small peak brim from the Evergreen can be added to the Riverstone, just be sure to remove the 1cm (3/8") seam allowance from the outer curved edge of the peak pattern piece before cutting. This accounts for the fact that the seam allowance is not necessary when applying bias binding, only when stitching and turning.
Adding the Riverstone brim to the Evergreen Bonnet:
It is possible to add the deep brim from the Riverstone Bonnet to the Evergreen, however some changes will need to be made to the pattern pieces.
1. Adjust the Evergreen Side and Centre pieces as in photo below. Measure 3.2cm (1.25") along the top of the Evergreen Side Bonnet pattern piece, tapering in to meet the original line. Trim. Measure and trim 3.2cm (1.25") from the front of the Centre Bonnet pattern piece.
2. Adjust the Riverstone Brim pattern piece by adding a 1cm (3/8") seam allowance to the outer edge of the bound bonnet brim piece as pictured below. This will account for the fact that the brim will be stitched and turned, rather than finished with bias binding. Both full brim and half brim pieces are pictured here.
3. Cut brim pieces from outer and lining fabric, using pattern pieces adjusted in step 2.
4. Stitch the outer and lining brim pieces right sides together on the outer edge using a 1cm (3/8") seam allowance.
5. Clip, press and turn through.
6. Stitch sides to centre outer and lining pieces of bonnet pieces together as per the Evergreen tutorial.
7. Baste the brim to the front edge of the bonnet, matching notches to centre panel seams.
8. Continue finishing bonnet as per the Evergreen tutorial.
We'd love to see you over at the Twig + Tale Facebook group where you can ask questions, look for inspiration, and of course share photos of your creations. You can also find us on Instagram - be sure to tag your projects #twigandtale so that we can find you too!
Read more about our bonnet patterns here:
- Introducing the Riverstone Bonnet
- How to Make a Reversible Evergreen with Animal Ears
- How to Add a Ruffle Brim to the Evergreen Bonnet
<Lovely images in this post by Ruth Phillips, Angela Jensen, Dida Sundet Ellinsen, Brittany Wood, and Shelley Gajus>
