Pieced Kwik Sew Jacket, Part 1

This jacket is part one of a two-part post.  I’ll share the second one next week.  I made this jacket a few years ago, based on Kwik Sew pattern 3236.  The fact that this pattern is still available speaks to its design and appeal.  The pattern description reads, “Misses' lined straight jacket has yoke, panel seams, full-length sleeves, and front button closure. Jacket is made from five different fabrics and has optional applique and trim embellishments.”  It is sized from XS to XL. 

I re-created the pattern for this jacket using Wild Ginger's Pattern Master Boutique software. I bought the Kwik Sew pattern and used it to draft my own which I knew would fit better. I measured the various pattern pieces and then created my own. I used the Kwik Sew directions, which are excellent, to construct the jacket. I like how the instructions have great illustrations on how to lay out all of the varied pattern pieces once they are cut so there are no mistakes. One thing that might not be apparent from the pattern picture is that all of the pieces are cut out individually and sewn together rather than piecing a panel of fabric and cutting out, say, a jacket front. One excellent feature about this pattern is that you can get away with a very small amount of an exquisite fabric by selecting the smallest pieces for that fabric. I also liked how the front placket was cut with its own facing and the insert band on the sleeve.

I chose five different fabrics, most of them linen, for this project.  The black background piece is embroidered with vines and flowers.  The micro check is the only non-linen piece.  I created an origami flower for one of the blocks and tacked down the points with beads (the smaller kanzashi flower in the center is not original to the jacket but was added later).  The buttonholes are embroidered and the buttons are fabric covered.  The same fabric from the buttons was used as piping in the yoke seam.

My style has evolved over time and I find this jacket a little bit “loud” for my current taste, but whenever I wear it I get lots of comments on it.  This pattern is well drafted, the instructions are great and the design offers lots of creative possibilities.  Check back next week when I will show you my other version, a pink and white number that is perfect for Easter.

Comments

[Vaszilisza]

Dear Julie,

I am a newbie creative, and I read your journal and tutorials with great awe. May I set a link to you on my own blog?
Thanks

V