The Never Ending Coat
This coat has been a long time coming. And I’m glad it’s done, but I don’t know if sewing a thick wool coat was the best idea in this heat. It makes it worse that my sewing room is the hottest room in the apartment (that is the main reason I get to have a sewing room all to myself!). Needless to say, when I started sweating profusely I had to just put it all down and take a water break.
The hem is a little wonky, but just because I couldn't be bothered to slow down.
I first bought the fabric and notions for this coat nearly 2 years ago because I’ve hated the winter coat I’ve been using forever. I finally decided since I wasn’t doing anything this summer that I needed to just take the plunge and do it. I even did everything the way I’m supposed to instead of cutting corners like usual – interfacing everywhere, cotton batting underlining for extra warmth, even hand sewing the lining sleeve cap in place. It has tested my patients, but it’s worth it in the end. I won’t be getting cold this winter in subzero blizzards!
Pattern: B5145
Pattern Description: Lined, fitted coat in various lengths, has raised waistline with back princess seams and pleat, front button closing. A, C, D, E: side seam pockets. A, D, E: back tab. C, D, E: optional snaps at lower front opening. E: sleeve tabs.
Pattern Sizing: 8-14, I cut a 12 instead of my usual 10 to accommodate the batting underlining and other layers I’d be wearing underneath.
Nice deep pockets too!
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, except for the changes I made.
Were the instructions easy to follow? Very easy
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? It’s a simple stylish coat that I don’t think will go out of style anytime soon. The only thing that would have made it better is a hood, but I’m not complaining.
Fabric Used: Wool suiting, Super Waterproof and Breathable-Tex (2-ply) from Seattle Fabrics in purple, and cotton batting for the inner layer.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I made it thicker with the cotton batting underlining; instead of buttons up the front I put in a zipper that goes all the way down to prevent wind from blowing the coat open; left off the back tab thing; used the collar from view E and the length of the coat in view A.
Would you sew it again? Probably not, at least not as a winter coat.
Would you recommend it to others? Yes it is really easy to sew and a great look.
~Molly
Really nice! All that sticky apartment sewing will be totally worth it when you’re cozy and warm this winter!
wow! this is adorable! what a great coat! i like the zipper–it makes it a bit more modern. excellent job.
Oh, awesome! You’ll be so glad you made this in advance of winter. I’d love to make a proper winter coat. I have my Lady Grey coat but I consider it more of a dress coat. I need something I can throw on everyday.
Gorgeous! It might have been hot sticky work and tested you patience with the details, but it will be all worth it when your winter rolls around! I love the neutral grey colour.
Beautifully done. It’s certainly a classic look and I like the fact that you used a zipper – very practical!