Design Notebook 2019

31st December 2019

I have at last started making up the Boxy Jacket Sewing Pattern Number 647. It has been a busy few weeks. I am looking forward to wearing this Chanel style jacket.

Continuing on the theme of #sustainablefashion and #usewhatyouhave, I am utilising short lengths of linings and interfacings. I had hoped I would find enough buttons in my button box but I may have to reorder some extras.

I will be making my shoulder pads - this is another way to use up small offcuts.

Taping up this pattern took me less that 15 minutes but cutting out always takes a little longer.

I may have to add a false hem in an attempt to squeeze this pattern out of just one metre of fabric. I will be reducing the back waist measurement as I am 5'3" and that will help! I may shorten the sleeves a little more as well. They are three-quarter length and an inch shorter will be attractive.

My video making up this jacket will be uploaded soon.

18th December 2019

The Boxy Jacket Pattern is now finished - I will be adding the Instructions for Making Up. The more experienced sewers among you can probably get straight on and make it up without.

I will be making a video which will be available soon.

More details of this pattern to follow. And of course pictures.

You can buy this pattern for just £7 - Members can download it - Boxy Jacket 647

14th November 2019

I am currently finishing the Boxy Jacket Sewing Pattern Number 647. As this design has three-quarter length sleeves, I have been thinking recently about shirts and cuffs .

I have sewn a lot of shirt sleeve plackets over the years. This is definitely the best method. The essential template can be downloaded from my Free Sewing Page

Once you get used to doing plackets this way, you will have shirt cuffs that deserve to be seen. Good design is all about the detail.

I will be reviewing alternative shirt cuffs. Next I’ll take a look at my Semi-Fitted Shirt with Frilly Cuffs Sewing Pattern Number 545.

5th November 2019

I have cut the pattern for the Boxy Jacket 647. I will have the pattern available on the pattern page soon.

In the meantime I have been making notes on drafting the pattern and how to use the 725/726 Panel Dress as a drafting block.

2nd November 2019

I have made a decision not to buy any more fabric until I have used up all that I have stored - follow me to see the PDF Sewing Patterns I will be producing as a result.

I will be using my 725 Panel Dress with Sleeves Pattern / Block as a basis for these patterns .