Well I have just finished my coat. I am a happy man. The idea behind this project was to see if I could make something I wanted rather than from a pattern I like. I don’t think I’m yet ready to draft my own patterns from scratch but decided to do as many seamstresses and tailors do….use a pattern that works as a ‘block’ and adapt it. The pattern wasn’t just changed for fit but to create an altogether different garment.
I used the Burda 6993 pattern – I have already made the jacket from it and that turned out well but wondered if I could change it to make a wool trench coat. Well I have! I made up my own pattern using the Burda and made lots of changes, read my other posts if you missed them. Changes included: collar, fronts, pockets, over-yoke, epaulettes as well as length and shape.
I lined the coat tonight and put a ribbon piping along the facings, which i like. Was it easy? No but it wasn’t difficult. Was it worth it? Yes! Of course I had problems along the way like messing up pockets, running out of buttons but it made me look at how I approach sewing in an altogether different way. I was thinking how it is made rather than the end product. It certainly made me take my time with measuring, cutting and careful sewing.
A coat like this in the UK would cost at least £200, add a posh designer name and you are talking £500+++ This cost me less than £40 and it fits me, looks like I want and I have the proud knowledge that I made it!
So I guess what I am saying is to all you who aren’t sure, go for it – Have a go at what you want to do.
Here it is:
What the pattern should have looked like:
I will try to get a photo of me wearing it today.
Now to choose my next project, although I am guessing it will be a slightly easier make as I am due to receive a new baby very soon. (Baby clothes….now that has a lot of scope for ideas!) So until next time…..
An excellent project; very inspirational. I particularly like the lone white button on the back.
Thank you, I really enjoyed this. I was asked today from 2 people if I could make them one! Must be doing something right!
What a beautiful design and excellent workmanship. It looks very expensive; your adaptation is much better than the original, imho. So glad I found your blog!
Thank you. I did enjoy making this and really pleased with the result. Now what to make next……
That's bloody brilliant, certainly worth the effort you put in.
Thanks Michelle, I've been asked to make some more for friends now.
Oh I bet you have. Hopefully only the ones that appreciate how much work you put into it. I have a list of people I want to make things for but need to gain confidence in the fitting process. Must be easier to fit to someone else though, I imagine.
Fitting is easier than you think, don't worry! I might even do a blog on that one day 🙂 Trust yourself and have confidence, you will succeed for sure