I also placed an order for NINE Marfy patterns – a few from their online selection and a few from their 2011/12 catalogue. I’m super excited! Hopefully they’ll arrive sooner rather than later, as I’m dying to get stuck into sewing some things for winter. More on this to come.
The troublesome news? On closer inspection the Crater Sleeve from Japanese Pattern Magic is proving to be quite a challenge.
To the extent that I may have to leave it by the wayside… that’ll teach me to shout from the hills before doing any research!
Basically no matter how much interfacing and padding I use, the fabric I had specifically in mind to make this jacket just doesn’t have the backbone to support the design – it just flops about looking rather sorry for itself. And as I’m not willing to change fabric, its the design that will have to give way.
I’m sorely temped to get my hands on some burlap to see how this would work with a stiff fabric. Such a shame because I’ve been dying to know what this sleeve would actually look like on – as the photo in the book doesn’t really give you anything beyond a side on perspective.
I have nothing but praise for the jacket pattern though, putting that notched collar together was a breeze thanks to the fabulous instructions. The jacket itself still needs a few more adjustments, and then I’ll be on my way.
Shall I unveil the fabric? :)
A periwinkle blue woven silk (which has been absolutely dastardly to match thread and buttons too, btw) from Emma One Sock, and a pale lemon silk satin for the lining, from Cleggs.
And a sneak peak at what is very near to being completed…
poppykettle 
Welcome back – it seems like forever. Glad to see that you've jumped right back into some sewing. Can't wait to see what lovely fabrics you've bought.
Ack! I want to see what that bottom photo is! I hope you'll be revealing soon!
Thanks Evelyn – it feels like it too! It's so good to be back and sewing again :)
Very soon! :)
what a great way to return to work. The sight of new fabric always makes me happy.I'm sorry to hear about your jacket but I really think it is the fabric that is the cause. I wish you wouldn't put it away. There are always obstacles to every project. I know you can do it!
That jacket really is amazing… Could you use something like the plastic they put in bags to make them hold their shape?
i wish I could start every work day by perusing through a mound of fabric. Yes please! Welcome home and I can't wait to see what your up to. So sad about the crater sleeve. I feel like there must be some way for it to work – what if you interfaced it with burlap? or cotton batting? Ah well. The fabric is gorgeous and I'd agree that you shouldn't sacrifice it. Even the plainest of jackets made up in the fabric will be stunning!
Bugger about that naughty fabric not doing what you want it to do!
Yeah – who doesn't love new fabric!! I'm definitely going to try a few more times for the sleeve, but I'm not holding out… :(
Maybe you could try a few layers of silk organza as an interlining In tfe sleeves and bodice- to give it structure and stiffness without the weight (which could weigh it down)
This is going to be one beautiful jacket. Can't wait to see the finished product!