Sewing: Navy cropped jacket - Vogue 8299

For my first jacket, I chose a simple unlined one, Vogue 8299. (After finishing all those edges with seam binding, lining doesn't sound so bad after all). I made view B because I loved the asymmetrical look, and used a navy blue cotton twill.

Pattern Alterations

Unfortunately the pattern only came in sizes S, M and L. The size small was way too big so I had to take it in a lot. I think the sleeves are still too baggy. I added some details not in the pattern like the epaulets, cuffs, bound buttonholes, and that thing on the back... I'm sure it has a real name, but I don't know what it is. The buttons were cheap, tacky looking shiny brass, but brushing them with steel wool gave them a nice finish like some expensive buttons I nearly bought.



I'm especially happy with the bound buttonholes! They took a bit longer to do, but were still way less frustrating than trying to do the regular kind on my machine.

Sewing: Embroidered turquoise corduroy jacket

I'd had this jacket for a while, but never wore it because it didn't really fit right. To fix the fit, I took it in at the waist and added the eyelets and lacing on the back. Then I removed one pocket and embroidered the ship in that space, and added some decorative bits to the other pocket (hanging from one half of a metal clasp). Since I took these pictures I swapped the buttons for silver ones with anchors on them to fit with the nautical theme (still looking for a home for those pretty tree buttons).