The same pattern can be used to create totally different sorts of jackets. The garments when ready will look completely different from each other. There is no risk anyone will think you dress in copies, which is worth knowing since some patterns will fit your body better than others. In this example we have used the pattern for a raglan jacket.
The jackets are sewn for a person sitting with hips and shoulders slightly forward in the wheelchair for better balance. Therefore, we have used the pattern for the curved back piece. The raglan jacket for women also has tucks along the shoulder line creating a more rounded top profile.
Above you can see the first version of the jacket. This is created for more formal occasions so we have used a very thick fabric, a wool blend. The jacket is lined using a black Thai silk fabric. The thick wool blend of the main fabric combined with the Thai silk of the lining make this jacket warm and windproof without making it unnecessary heavy and bulky.
The front piece of the pattern has added width creating overlapping fabric pieces at the front. The jacket is closed using hooks hidden by the overlap. A Tommy Hilfiger belt finalise the elegance. Its heavy leather and metal details keep the jackets somewhat stiff fabric in place.
In the photo collage above you can see the jacket from behind. You can clearly see the curving of the back piece and the raglan seams of the sleeves running at an angle from neck line to the arms underside. The collar is sewn with a higher back line. It is strengthened with vliseline ironed on the inside of the outer fabric piece of the collar. The detail of the jacket side show you the two tucks at the sides of the back piece. These only exist in the curved back piece.
The same pattern can be used for totally different jackets.
Above you can see a jacket for everyday use with personal style. It is sewn from a thick cotton fabric with a colourful print, the sort generally used in bags, curtains etc. The jacket is lined with black fleece making it warm and cosy without being heavy. The sleeves have rib knitted wristbands and the collar is sewn in the same rib knit fabric. The front piece is divided by a two-way zip which has the advantage that it can be opened at the bottom for more space over the hip area.
We choose black lining and details to tone down the colourful print. Since the jacket is made for everyday use it has to be able to handle dirt and rain. We fixed this with impregnation spray. You can buy this at any shop carrying leisure wear. At the same time we bought a special washing soap to prevent the impregnation from disappearing immediately. It is easy to impregnate clothes, just follow the instructions. If you worry that it will affect the colour or quality of the fabric, test on a separate piece before spraying your garment.
Photographer Inger Bladh
