I made this about 2 years ago for my intermediate sewing class and I can honestly say that this is the only time I’ve worn it. It turned out nicely and I got a good grade. I really like the shape of it, but it just always felt so bulky and big. I think this was due in large part because of the fabric I chose. The corduroy I used was thick and stiff. I think this would do much better with a thinner fabric.
Here’s my Pattern Review review with some additional details.
Pattern Description: Set of separates including jacket, vest, skirt, top and pants. The jacket is not lined.
Pattern Sizing: Seems to run a bit big.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, for the most part. It was a bit big on me in the end so I think that affected how it looked on me relative to the way it looks on the pattern envelope.
Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes, no real problems.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I liked that it was unlined when I was doing it because it was easy, but after I made it, I wish it had been lined. I think it would have been nicer and more comfortable. I like the overall the shape. There are a fair number of pattern pieces (~14?). In the end, I think the arms are a bit boxy for me.
Fabric Used: Corduroy. I think this was not a great idea. Based on my experience, this jacket would work better with a thinner fabric. The corduroy was also stiff.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I made a muslin of the jacket first and didn’t really end up having to make any changes to the overall shape. We actually did several muslins for class. One use pattern paper. One use some thick fabric-like paper. One using muslin. I learned a lot making the muslins and after that class I definitely do more muslins, but it was kinda crazy on this particular jacket and I didn’t really feel like it gave me a better idea of how it would fit in the end. Maybe the muslins need to be made in fabric closer in thickness to the final fabric?
I did finish off the seams with binding. Again, I don’t’ know if I would have otherwise, but since it was for class, we were expected to have our seams nice and clean. I think it’s a nice practice. If I were to do this now, I’d probably just serge the edges. The binding took a while. Although I do also have a binding foot I could use now so that would make it faster. But in terms of reducing bulk, I think serging is the way to go.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Maybe in a lighter fabric. Overall, I still really like the shape and I really liked the lapels. I probably won’t sew it again just because I have other projects I would rather try.
Conclusion: The pattern is decent and has a good shape. I recommend using a not-too-heavy fabric and definitely make a muslin first.
