The Mallard Coat

I wear my jacket versions of this pattern a lot, and decided that I really wanted a bright funky longer version to wear casually with jeans for work.

My two jackets were made in a cotton canvas, and I liked the weight of them, so spent a few hours perusing the rolls available at Spotlight.  Eventually deciding on this sublime meadow of blooming poppies.

I knew I would never be able to get the pattern matching to work on the side seams, so have settled for cutting the fabric so it at least looks like the patterns align.  I did however spend an inordinate amount of time working out how to cut the pockets so they match, only to give up on the folded cuff, it just hurt my brain too much trying to figure that out.

Lining is a beautiful coral coloured bemsilk, and I have purchased some buttons, but am going to wear it without them first to see if they are really needed.

I'm having a bit of fun putting different combinations of jeans, tops and shoes together with this.

Pattern from New Zealand company The Sewing Revival.

Two Toned Fantail Top

 

I have had this pale blue linen/cotton blend in my garment making stash for a while now, and have been reluctant to use it for a top, after my husband made a comment about going for a hospital scrub look.

One night while lying in bed, I had the brainwave that if there was enough of the blue rayon animal print left from my Skulduggery Top, I could use it with the linen and make a new fantail top.

This is the result.  I have made the Fantail top before, see here, but thought that it was a little big on me, so this time I reprinted the pattern in a size 8.  It is a much better fit, I also omitted the neck facing and made a bias binding to match the sleeves and make it more cohesive looking.  The sleeves were also shortened about 4cm, and then I just threaded a narrow elastic through.  I love how the gathered detail is really defined on the front in a solid colour, and hopefully after a couple of wash and wears the linen will soften and be a little more drapey.

Photos were taking using the selfie and self timer option on my phone, in the absence of my unwilling teen photographers.

Pattern is from NZ company  The Sewing Revival