Chalk and Notch Joy Jacket Pattern

Tuesday, February 20, 2018


The Joy Jacket from Chalk and Notch Patterns released this week! Not only are you going to love this pattern, but you will also love the story behind it. Read more here. This is just another reason that the sewing community is the greatest!


I'm not going to sugar coat it; this was one of my more challenging makes. It is listed as an intermediate pattern. Nothing is particularly difficult, it is just a bit more time consuming. But don't let that deter you!! The end result is well worth the effort!


The Joy Jacket pattern calls for medium weight woven fabric with a nice drape. I was dying to order some lovely pink tencel twill for a spring jacket, but I couldn't justify the expense for a tester version. I ended up finding this olive denim look modal shirting at Jo-Ann Fabrics, and the weight turned out just right.


When you make your own jacket, you have the opportunity to play with a fun lining fabric. This is a very light, almost cotton lawn feeling, gingham shirting I had in my stash from my great Aunt. Gabriela wisely suggests you use a slippery fabric for the sleeve lining, so I switched to a rayon challis for that portion. The slippery fabric allows for more movement and ease in sliding your arm into the sleeve. I can't believe how easily this fully bagged lining came together. You have to sew it to believe it for yourself! Bonus, there are no seams to finish!


The pattern comes with two versions, one with a hood and slant pockets and one without the hood and patch pockets. I opted to use the slant pockets without the hood combining the two versions. Be sure to check out the other tester photos for the grommet and drawstring options as well!


I am a sucker for raglan sleeves, and these fit the bill plus they are easier to sew than setting in a sleeve. I highly recommend sewing a quick muslin before diving into your special fabric. The pattern is designed for a 5'-7" height. Being 5'-9", I anticipated needing to add some length, but after trying my muslin, I stuck with the original length. As per all Chalk and Notch patterns I have tried, instructions for customizing the fit are included. 


Gabriela also takes care of all of the details in the pattern, from plenty of notches for alignment to beautiful topstitching.


My zipper is also from Jo-Ann Fabrics. When I sew the next version I will definitely opt for a pretty metal zipper. In fact, I've already made the purchase! 


With the lighter weight fabric suggestions, this jacket makes for a fantastic transitional piece. It may not be ideal for most winter climates, but perfect for fall and spring. Of course, here in Texas during a typical year, it will likely be perfect in the dead of winter.


Are you ready to stretch yourself and take on a jacket project? This is the pattern to learn a new skill or two and take your handmade wardrobe to a new level. Grab the Joy Jacket pattern on sale this week.
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