I have been very inspired by Pattern Review's contests this spring. This is the 3rd in a row that I have entered. This is for the "Best Pattern Contest". Looking through the best pattern options, I was pleased to see that I already owned several of them. The only one that really stood out to me was the Sewaholic Minoru.
Scouring the internet, I found so many great Minoru variations. After seeing this one from Kristy at Rocket Sews, I decided to add a zipper guard just like hers. Imitation is the best form of flattery after all.
I used a gray denim for the exterior and a blue daisy print slippery polyester for the lining, and interlined it with white flannel. I made a size 12 and did a 1" FBA adding a front dart. Here is a photo overload:
The obvious and well noted omission of this pattern is the lack of exterior pockets. I added welt pockets on the exterior, and another welt pocket on the interior as well. I only need an interior pocket on the left side, so I only did one.
Using a welt pocket on the interior had one unexpected effect: I was unable to bring the waist elastic around the front of the jacket very far. The casing stitching would have gone right across the pocket bag of my welt pocket making it only a few inches deep! Aaack! So I simply decided to stop the elastic short of the pocket bag, so it only extends about 1" forward of the side seams.
This is how I did the zipper guard based on Kristy's method:
I love how the zipper shield turned out. Initially, I wasn't a fan of the exposed zipper on this jacket, but it has really grown on me, and I'm happy I decided not to make additional plackets to cover the zipper.
Thankfully I finished this jacket while it's still cool enough to wear it. :)
It's fantastic!!!!! That wide elastic gets me :) I'm so confused as to the lack of pockets. It's outerwear. It must have pockets!!!
ReplyDeleteI agree. Coats and jackets must have pockets. In my opinion, Sewaholic took a shortcut by omitting them.
DeleteGreat inspiration. Ive had this pattern some time - just haven't got to it yet. Love your lining too :)
ReplyDeleteThanks!
DeleteI love your lining :-) The jacket looks great on you!
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteLooks great! I love this pattern. I made one awhile back but it doesn't fit me anymore since having a baby. I keep debating on remaking it but I probably won't finish it until summer lol
ReplyDelete:)
DeleteBeautifully sewn jacket!!! I like not having the elastic casing across the front...not only in looks, but I think it would be more comfortable.
ReplyDeleteThanks. I am actually surprised at the number of people who didn't like the elastic coming around the front. :)
DeleteGreat looking jacket! I'm loving that lining fabric. Enjoy wearing it.
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteThis looks fantastic!
ReplyDeleteThanks!
DeleteThe gray looks so cool, and then the lining is awesome! Great job
ReplyDeleteThanks, I think the lining might be my favorite part too.
DeleteI. Want. This. LOVE IT!!
ReplyDeleteHa ha! It's mine!!
DeleteYour Minoru is perfect. Great color, fabulous lining, wonderful fit. Plus, you look adorable in it: you can really see how happy you are about your awesome new jacket. You've got my vote!
ReplyDeleteThanks Jess. :)
DeleteFun jacket. The lining makes me smile. I actually think limiting the waist elastic to the back gives the front a sleeker look.
ReplyDeleteThanks Audrey, the lining makes me smile too :)
DeleteBeautiful jacket.
ReplyDeleteThanks Jean!
DeleteBeautiful - and the lining just makes it even better. Great taste...
ReplyDeleteThank you Janice!
DeleteI LOVE THIS SO MUCH! The grey denim looks fantastic, and that lining is positively divine in color. I love that you added pockets and a zipper guard! I've got plans to make another version in the near future, and I hope mine turns out as nice as yours :) I hope you gets lots of wear out of it this Spring!
ReplyDeleteThanks Meg!
DeleteGreat jacket! Love all the details and the fabric you used!
ReplyDeleteI know this is an old post, but I'm having problems with my Minoru and I'm still at the flat pattern adjustment phase!
ReplyDeleteI bought the Kelly jacket by Closet Case sand that's Minoru/Waver trench-like. I'm using the bellows pockets on that pattern for that pattern. The Minoru, I'm using either welts or side seam plus patch pockets with a snap/flap closer.
When I did my FBA (I'm a 35-25-36), I added A LOT to the neck and waist by following the raglan FBA link on Tasia's page. I'm truly thinking about giving the pattern away, but keeping the collar and just make a Waver with a zip.
Was adding darts too much fabric to see through? I mean, I'm using twill! Then, of course, you have to dart the lining as well.
I clicked the link to make a zip guard and I don't get it. I want one, though. Please, pleeeeaaaase help me!!!! How do I give you my email address? I'm old (37) and I'm not good at electronic/internet stuff!! I can't even get my blog off the ground.
I added bust darts to mine. You shouldn't add anything to the neckline when you do a FBA. Did you look at this Sewaholic tutorial?(It's and FBA for the Belacarra Blouse, but it also has a raglan sleeve). I hope that helps. Otherwise you can email me at getmystitchon at gmail dot com.
DeletePS: 37 is not old. You are younger than I am.
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