Sewing Workshop Plaza Jacket

Reviewed by:	Ann Smith	About Ann Smith CA USA Member since: 8/24/02 Reviews written: 154 Sewing skills:Advanced Favored by: 185 people patterns reviewed: 151 Bio: I love to sew for fashion, especially unusual designs. I own way too many patterns and fabric! I hav...full profile
Posted on:	5/13/03 4:32 AM
Pattern Size:	Regular
Project Photo:
Pattern Photo:	Pattern Information provided by Ann Smith
Pattern Rating:	I Highly recommend this pattern
Pattern Description: This is a very loose fitting jacket/top based on simple rectangles. Pants are also included in the pattern. Pattern Sizing: Sizes XS through XXL included 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? This is one of the easiest Sewing Workshop patterns. The instructions are very good and, except for inserting the sleeve into the seam, there is nothing that a beginner couldn't do. The sleeve is just a little bit fussy but not hard. I think the instructions there are not quite as complete as they could be. You just need to be attentive to sewing exactly to the dots because if you don't you end up with open air under the arm. This is easily fixed, though, by sewing the seams up a little closer to the sleeve after it is inserted. What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? This garment is beautifully finished inside and has a high style look, yet is very quick and easy to make. Fabric Used: This fabric was sold to me as linen (but I think it is a linen/cotton blend) in an Asian inspired floral print. Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I made no changes at all to size small. As you can see the jacket is short in the front and back, long on the sides. Although my measurements are on the high side of the medium size, there is so much ease that I didn't need any of my usual full bust or hip alterations. I also usually need to shorten the length of garment and sleeves as I am only 5'3". So if you are taller, take note. The center front and back fall about 2 inches below my waist. Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? This is a terrific garment. I am pleased to discover that I can wear it as a top with a pin to hold it together. When the weather cools I think I will make it again to wear as a jacket. Conclusion Be sure you have a drapey fabric. As you can see, this top is very, very wide. My linen stands out a bit in the back but relaxes enough to look good.