I finally finished my trench coat, sewed the buttons on during the Patriots game last night. Go Pats!
Sadly, the pattern I used, Simplicity 4084, is out of print. It was a freebie from Threads Magazine a few years ago, so some of you may have it kicking around. I like that the styling is classic. After all that work, it’s not going to go out of style anytime soon.
Here’s the coat unbuttoned, which is how I’m sure I’ll wear it 99% of the time. Likey. 🙂
Here’s my review of the pattern.
Pattern Description: Lined Single or Double Breasted Trench Coat – I made view A, the double breasted version with piping. (Far right on the pattern cover.)
Pattern Sizing: 6-14, According to my measurements I should have made the 14, I made the 10. It’s a little tight across the shoulders, I can’t wear a sweater or jacket under it, but it should be perfect once I reach my final weight goal. 🙂
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes.
Were the instructions easy to follow? I thought the instructions were easy, but there were a LOT (91 steps and 28 pattern pieces!) With four views to choose from, my eyes kept jumping around on the instruction sheet. I finally started using a pencil to check off each step as I completed it, this kept me on track.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love all the interesting details: pocket flaps, front & back yoke, sleeve tabs.
Fabric Used: I’m not sure of the exact content, my local fabric store was going out of business (boo!) and this was labeled “Rain Wear.” It feels (and ravels) like a rayon, has a very tight, unforgiving weave, and water beads up on it. It wasn’t the easiest fabric to work with (easing the sleeve heads drove me crazy) but I’m happy with the results.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I made bound buttonholes, just for a challenge. I like the professional look they give.
I could not find a 2″ belt buckle anywhere, but found this buckle on a belt at Salvation Army for 99¢. So I made the belt 1.5″ to work with this buckle.
I used 1/8″ cording for my piping, instead of the 1/4″ called for and didn’t use a contrast fabric for the trim. I prefer the more subtle look.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? When I bought this red fabric, I also bought enough of the same Rain Wear in blue. I also have buttons, the lining and a gorgeous silver belt buckle, so I think I HAVE to make another one at some point. 🙂 It won’t be any time soon, though, as this was a huge project.
Conclusion: This pattern is not for the faint of heart. None of the steps are overly complicated, but there are a lot of them. The final result is worth it though. It would probably be worthwhile to make a muslin, using just the main pattern pieces, to get the fit you want.
If you’re interested in making a trench coat yourself you might try McCalls 5525, which has many similar details.
Happy creating!
Oh, well done!! What a beautiful Thanksgiving color. Have a good holiday!
This is a beautiful trench coat. I have thought about making one a couple of times, but the amount of work, and not having the perfect fabric always stopped me. I love the color of your fabric. I think a raincoat in a fun color (not black or khaki ) is a great way to cheer yourself up on a dreary rainy day.
I agree, Audrey. Khaki raincoats have always bored me to tears. I’d rather just get wet, lol. It was only when I saw the pretty fabric that I decided to make one. 🙂
Since I’d bought fabric for TWO raincoats, I considered this work to be an investment in a learning experience. I’m certain the second one will come out better … whenever I get around to it.
In the meantime, I’ll enjoy this particular creation. I think it’s important to be thankful for where we are NOW, and not about where we are not. 🙂
Happy Creating!