.When my red merino cardigan finally got one too many holes in it for public viewing I was all set to buy another one. But then I remembered I had this red fabric in my cupboard for at least a few years from the op shop for only 20 cents ! It is lightweight and very slighty scratchy but still soft so it wasn't quite right for a shirt .I thought I would have a go at making a lightweight jacket and no big deal if it didn't work out. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
I occasionally love to peruse my mother's pattern stash and she had a McCalls wardrobe pattern 4093 which she has had for yonks but never used. I liked the folded back lapels on the front and the split back seam which is a little different .
Because the fabric is lightweight my friend wisely suggested I should add a lining. I had to buy some lining from the local craft shop which has a very small selection of dress fabrics and luckily they had some closely matching chiffon. I chose to underline the fabric and did hongkong seams especially as they may be in view from the back. The body of the pattern fit quite well but the sleeves were massive. I did realise this when looking at the pattern but went ahead hoping some Harry Potter magic might occur when I was sewing ( a bit like sewing faster when you are running out if thread hoping that will get you through ! ) When I put the jacket on I thought I was in for a wadder but after taking in about 4 cms from each seam on the sleeves and removing about 10cms off the length it starting looking a bit more hopeful. I used two vintage buttons and my nickyknack loop turner.
I have since worn this jacket about three times ( I am behind on blogging as usual ) and I think it is passable - not great but OK for now. I just also want to pass on my thanks to Anne for all her great hints with the loop turner - ironing the seam open after sewing the loop and how to position the turner were great so Thanks Anne !
Happy Sewing everyone.
I had a laugh about the comment on sewing faster when you are running out of thread - guilty as charged on that, your honour!
ReplyDeleteHow great to conjure a great little jacket out of an op shop find, and your mum;s pattern stash!
I have tried sewing slower as well but for some reason that doesn't stretch the thread out either.
DeleteI've only just found this post, so apologies for not commenting earlier - I was away. I know what you mean about something being fine for the interim - I think much of my wardrobe is like that!!. The jacket looks smart though, and I think as a summer throw on will probably have a long and healthy life.
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