When I saw the fabric I’ve used to sew up my Heather Blazer, I was drawn by the colour – I’m so devoted to copper that it has become my signature look. I had no idea what I would make with it as sometimes it really does depend on getting to feel and judge the handle of a fabric before truly committing to a project. Being quite the blend of fabrics – 48% Cotton, 25% Linen, 24% Viscose, 3% Lycra – I wasn’t sure what the handle would be like although the description of the fabric did stipulate heavy. I am not sure I would go that far because heavy to me suggests a lack of fluidity and this fabric has plenty of movement. When I received it I couldn’t get the idea of a blazer out of my mind and I have had the Heather Blazer in my pattern collection since it came out (I was a beginner at that point so it was an attractive proposition for me to start sewing jackets) but had not yet had the chance to stitch it up.
Having a slightly oversized fit, this pattern is very beginner friendly. It’s not a traditional tailored jacket (which I still want to try one of these days) but I love the modern style; it’s relaxed and smart at the same time. It is also lined and has the most wonderful instructions to help you line it and make the finish look really neat and professional. I’m no sewing expert – I’ve only been sewing for 4 years and I’m entirely self-taught – but, to give you an idea of how manageable a project this is, I finished mine, from cutting to hemming, in 3 hours.
I didn’t opt for a traditional lining for this make as I loved how this twill worked with the colour, but it is slippery enough that it’s easy to put on over other garments and I really wanted a fun print inside given that the fabric was a plain on the outside.
The only alteration I made to the pattern was to shorten it – I cannot remember how much I shortened it by (I want to say 4” – I’m only 5 ft 1”) but it would have drowned me if I hadn’t! I downsized to a L because I prefer my clothes more fitted than boxy.
I think there’s just about a metre of fabric left so I do think I’m going to have to make this a co-ord and I think I’ll sew up a Sew Over It Ava skirt to wear with this in the autumn months.