Losing the battle

This jacket has threatened to take down all of my free time, which is formidable. Finally, I see an end to it, but not without regret. I regret not taking more time to make sure that the jacket would lay properly, so the hem writhes and flinches as I walk. I regret not measuring the lining properly, so the lining doesn't quite meet the bottom hem. I regret cutting the front hems freehand, so the front is uneven. I regret looking like le petit prince.

But, I'm pleased that I have a fall jacket to wear! It fits, it's jacket-like, and I did it!

I first made a muslin out of an existing winter coat that fit pretty well, but could use more room in the shoulders and less in the waist. I made some adjustments to the muslin, but ultimately got impatient and started cutting the fabric based on additional adjustments that I imagined. Next time, I'll get the muslin perfect, first.

I can't imagine that the blow-by-blow is riveting, so let me skip ahead a little. I'm done and here are the pics to show you!

Welcome!

We would like to welcome everyone to our new blog, where we will be sharing with your our various creations with the snags and successes along the way. We are both novice seamstresses--separated by two thousand miles--eager to share with each other and you our fabric adventures. Please stay tuned as we navigate thread, needles, and yards and yards of fabric!

Actually, novice is generous when describing me, Aminal. Despite having never made a garment for an adult human, I have recklessly embarked upon a jacket project that promises giggles and discomfort for all. So, if I can think I can make anything, so can you! I promise to share my disasters as openly as my triumphs -- should there be triumphs. As a jacket preview, here's my first disaster: uneven and too-close pockets! Come back to see how this and our other textile stories unfold!