Time to get back on the blogging wagon and update you on what has been sewn over the past couple of months.  But first, thanks so much for all the feedback on my last post.  Melbournians (and Victorians) will know that we’re still in lockdown here, but the daily number of new infections is decreasing all the time – we’re down to just 35 today – so what we’re doing, as hard as it can be, is definitely working.  We’re hanging in there and continuing our efforts – it will be worth it in the long run, both from a health perspective and from an economic perspective.  So, on to my coat!

This is a pattern that I’ve sewn before – it’s the Style Arc Parker coat. I often reach for my previous version – it’s unlined, and sewn from a stable knit, so it’s as comfortable as wearing a cardigan, but it’s that little bit more dressed up.

It’s also quite difficult to see some of the details in this fabric! The fabric came from Super Cheap Fabrics. They described it as a textured knit, but I would describe it as a double knit, similar to a ponte but not as stretchy. In my opinion the fabric descriptions and categorisations on the Super Cheap Fabrics website are not always what I would consider to be a true reflection of the fabric type – buyer beware! However, the photos are generally pretty clear, and they have quite good communication if you contact them. Composition wise it is 86% polyester, 12% metallic and 2% elastane.

From the pattern website: With an effortless long-line shape, this coat is a perfect option for a smart casual look. Let the collar sit high on the neck and allow the revere to fall naturally. This style features a horizontal hip seam, patch pocket and stitched back vent. FABRIC SUGGESTION: ponte, knit boucle, sweater knit or rugby knit.

I sewed size 12, without alterations. It’s a relaxed style, without closures. Most construction was on the overlocker, with the sewing machine for topstitching and collar insertion.

Do make sure that you use a knit interfacing on the collar and facings. I also did some stitching in the ditch along the shoulder seams to keep the facing in place. I probably did some along the seamline where the lower fronts attach too!

I don’t have much more to say about this coat pattern, other than I think it is a great one. This type of garment works really well in my wardrobe. Even my lockdown wardrobe!

My cousin Freya asked me recently if there’s a switch that flips when we turn fifty that makes us suddenly think that too much animal print is never enough – I think that there must be! There seems to be more and more animal print entering my wardrobe in recent years. I wonder if metallic has a similar switch…especially where shoes are concerned.