Circle Jacket

Looking for a fast-to-make, easy-to-wear, goes-with-anything third layer to throw on over a pair of jeans, or a dressy dress, or a pair of slacks and a shell?  This jacket can be dressed up or down, depending on the fabric used.

It is a quick sew, fun-to-wear jacket looks good on anyone, no matter the size you create. Stop in at Textiles West to see this jacket in person, and to try it on in front of the mirror!

Techniques you will learn include: French seams, changing a pattern to a more flattering neckline design, 3-thread baby hem (surprisingly easy technique used on many couture garments), tips on working with fabrics with drape and movement.

Student supply list:

• Fast n Fun Circle Jacket pattern available for purchase and download:  https://saf-t-pockets.com/circle-jacket-3000-download/
• Fabric as required, as listed on page 5 of the pattern, for your size.  Fabrics that are soft, with drape, produce the best results.  I have had the best results using silky polys or rayon challis, but it can also be made from light-weight wool, soft cottons or silks. I used a silk chiffon burn-out for one I made, but do not like the results as well since it is so light and airy that it is more difficult to wear, especially on a windy day!  (It was also more difficult to sew!)
• All-purpose sewing thread to match your fabric.
• Seam ripper
• Fabric scissors
• Applique (duck-billed) scissors if you have a pair
• Optional:  ¼” Steam-A-Seam II

If you wish to use one of the class Bernina machines, they are available at no charge. If you wish to use your own machine, make sure it is in good working order, and bring all power cords, accessories, foot pedal, extension table if available, and machine manual. Regular sewing presser foot, or a ¼” presser foot if you have one. Edge-stitching foot if you have one.

Pre-class Work:

• Print the pattern and tape together the pieces as instructed.
• If you are comfortable cutting out garments, complete the following prior to class:
  • 1.  Make a copy of the pattern (or print and tape together two copies), since the front and back are the same pattern piece.  I will be providing you a different template for the front from what is in the pattern.  (This is the value-added portion of this class – it will make the neckline lay much better and be more flattering.)
  • 2.  Cut one back on the fold.  Leave your pattern pinned to your fabric, please.
  • 3. Using the copy of the pattern, cut a second back on the fold.  (Don’t worry, this is correct.  We will cut this piece for the modified front in class.)  Ignore the instructions to “fold on the front cutting line to shape the pattern into the Front (1) piece” under the Preparing the Pattern section of the pattern.  Leave your pattern pinned to your fabric, please.
  • 4. Add 2” in length to the Center Back (CB) end of the Band Pattern Piece.  (This is to allow for the extra length needed because of the modified front pattern piece you will receive in class.)  Cut two Band pieces.  Leave your pattern pinned to your fabric, please.
  • 5. Bring the cut-out pieces to class.

If you are not comfortable performing the pre-class work on your own, you can register for the pre-class morning session and we will cut out your pattern/garment pieces, and then take a break for lunch prior to the afternoon class session.

Number of hours for class: 4 hrs

Max number of students: 6

Class Level: Fascination, prior sewing knowledge a must

Instructor: Bonnie Gingerich