Changes I made:
- Burda makes this coat in taffeta as an evening coat with snap closure. I felt like snap closures would be problematic: I didn't want the stitching on the outside of the coat and the weight of the wool and interfacings would make the snaps pull and hang awkwardly. I chose a button front closure.
- Trim. The Burda version has a stunning origami band sewn on the bottom. I really, really, really wanted this, but the wool and also the velvet were far too thick. I was initially frustrated with this, but now I like the cleaner look I have with my finished coat.
Coat Structure:
- Front facings and collar are interfaced with Palmer/Pletsch perfect fuse tailor ultra
- Folded edge of facing and front is interfaced with Emma Seabrookes 1" double sided stay tape this gives the edge a nice sharp crisp line.
- I also used a sturdier sew-in interfacing at the top edges where the collar joins to give it added stability (keeps the collar from drooping - the velvet is quite heavy).
- Buttons: are from Lyanwood's Etsy shop. I painted them with a metallic paint I picked up at Hobby Lobby - surprisingly the color matched nearly perfectly.
- It's interlined with Thinsulate which I purchased from Vogue Fabrics
- For a great tutorial on adding interlining visit Threads or sign up for this wonderful class on Craftsy.
- The lining fabric is a polyester charmeuse I purchased from Fabric.com
- I bound the bottom edge of the thinsulate & lining with a gorgeous floral satin binding ribbon I had in my stash (it's good to have a stash).
My most helpful fitting resource is a book by Judith Rasband called Fabulous Fit: Speed Fitting and Alteration. I took a mini-class from her several years ago at the American Sewing Expo in Novi, Michigan. Her method just makes sense - it is simple, quick, thorough, and logical. I've had great success with it.
Make something beautiful!
Jen
