Thursday, March 11, 2010

Simplicity 2443


Description: Cynthia Rowley Collection. Misses' dress sewing pattern with knit bodice and jacket or vest



Sizing: Size 6 to 22



Instructions: Excellent for all levels of sewing. Here is a couple of examples:

Step 1 is staystitching. The pattern instructions state, “This stitching stays in permanently and helps prevent stretching on curved edges.



Then in step 2 front dart: “TIP – to prevent a “bubble” at the point, make the last few stitches right on the fold and leave the thread ends long enough to tie a knot. DO NOT back-stitch at the point. Press the dart seam flat along the stitching line to “blend” the stitches, then press dart toward center.”



Now aren’t those great instructions. I don’t know if it is just me and I haven’t been paying attention making a garment or if Simplicity is really stepping up the instruction sheet and giving great sewing information.  Whichever it is, thank you Simplicity, your great instructions are very helpful to all level of sewing abilities.

The rest of the instructions are very good with a nice order of construction


Likes/Dislikes: I like the look of this short sleeve jacket. Stylish, fun and a bit different for my wardrobe and I look forward to wearing it.


Changes: This jacket does not have lining, you could draft your own if you wanted. I serged all my seams to finish the inside and used this facing tutorial for the facing, gives a much nicer look.



















I also stitched the front and back band with 3/8” seam allowancs, gave me a bit more length on the jacket.

The instructions state to stitch the pockets to the jacket with a 1/4" seam allowance.  I did edgestitching and the 1/4" seam allowance. 


Fabric: A linen from Joann’s last year. My ribbon matches better than the photos depict. If your selection of ribbon is limited at your favorite fabric store, pick the ribbon first then the fabric, that might be easier.

The pattern called for 2 pairs of d-rings for the sleeve buckles but does not indicate the size, I used 1" rings.



Conclusion: I am so pleased with my fun jacket. I debated for quite some time if I should do the ribbons and decided, sure why not! This pattern went together beautifully and it has so many details. Pockets, button loops, d-ring closures on the sleeves.  

Here are the d-rings and sleeve vents, I see I have a bit more pressing to do on this sleeve:




Several front views, trying to find some natural light on this cloudy and rainy day.











































22 comments:

  1. Your jacket looks great. I'll use your tutorial on my facings when I don't line. It looks so much better than just serging the edges.

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  2. Great jacket Lori. I smiled when you said you weren't sure whether to do the ribbons or not. I've been debating the same thing. Will they annoy me? Are they 'too young'? Will I, won't? Decisions, decisions. :) Mind you I'm still looking for a suitable fabric and all the while winter is fast approaching. I hope you enjoy wearing yours.

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  3. Love, love, love the jacket. I have that pattern and plan on making it hopefully this Spring.

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  4. Wonderful jacket! Your choice of fabric is great!!!

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  5. Great review and beautiful jacket.

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  6. Love your jacket!
    I just bought this pattern for myself; thought it was cute without being too "cutsie." And, the airline I work for is getting new uniforms designed by Cynthia Rowley and I can't wait! I wanted to have a dress by her right away. I think that I'm going to make pleats in the skirt, rather than gathers. Need to streamline this 50-something body!

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  7. I have the fabric, ribbon, and thread for this one, but was too lazy to cut out the pieces yet. Your version is fabulous.

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  8. Great work on the jacket. Personally I don't like the ribbons or the closures..but that is just me. Love the rest of it. Your choice of fabric gives it a sort of upmarket jeans jacket vibe.

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  9. I totally LOVE that jacket, Lori. It is different, lots of great details. OK, it's on my list! Nice job!

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  10. I find this jacket very appealing, but have been wondering if the ribbons and loops are functional or just decorative?

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  11. Love the jacket, cute details. Enjoy.

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  12. Just read your review at PR. Had to come and see more photos of jacket. I didn't particularly like this pattern but seeing your jacket has helped me to see some potential just for making the jacket alone. Really great job. I haven't used that facing technique in ages and probably should as it is a nice finish. Great job.

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  13. Looks great! Wish it were mine. ;)

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  14. It turned out wonderfully. Love all the details. Curious as to what you'll wear it with?

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  15. I honestly didn't even look twice at this pattern, but now you have me wanting to run right out and buy it. Love it Lori!!!!

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  16. So cute! I've had my eye on this pattern. I like the dress too, though for someone young like our daughters. You could pull the dress off, being the slim thing that you are.

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  17. It looks so much better than just serging the edges.
    data entry work from home

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  18. That is a wonderful coat and jacket. I want that Cynthia Rowley fishing jacket (as I call it) too.

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  19. SO awesome. What perfect details and a great job. LOVE how you styled it over at Pattern Review!

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  20. Anonymous7:30 PM

    Oh this looks so professional!

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  21. What a great jacket! I'm always looking for a short sleeve jacket for summer, and you really knocked this out of the park.

    I have to agree with you that Simplicity has really improved their instructions. I was so impressed that I sent them an e-mail to thank them!

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