McCalls's M5538, Polartec Fleece Jacket Project



My new project has barely begun and I am already seeing the challenges ahead!  The fabric I have chosen is a Polartec Fleece.  I am not sure of the official weight/warmth but can say that it is a rather dense fleece and of a higher quality than others I have seen.  I began pinning & cutting my pattern pieces yesterday and noticed immediately that the 1 1/4 inch pins I was using were not quite long enough.  In addition they were tearing up my thumb working with the thickness and density of the fabric.  I found some 1 1/2" ball headed pins tucked away in my sewing case and these worked through the fabric better and were much easier on my fingers. 

 

Needle choice was also a question.  The above are special extra sharp needles and were designed for microfiber fabrics.  When starting a project like this, it's always good to start with a new needle &  make sure you are using the proper type.

I will be using 100% poly thread for this project.  It is recommended to be used with fleece.




                        

Home Decorating Projects

Most of this blog is garment related sewing, however occasionally I enjoy home decorating projects.  I made the wall wreath using a mixture of different textured items.  The pillows are 100% down filled and I made zippered slip covers for each of them.  The decorative pillow covers were made out of fabrics I found in the remnant section of the fabric store.

100% Pima Cotton Pillow Cases

Halloween Costume - Simplicity 3629

I have made a few costumes in the past. :) This was a fun one to make! 

The pattern was easy to follow too.

Men's Lined Vest Finished

The Professor's Vest:
I used a Simplicity 2870 pattern and modified it slightly in design, lined it, and added inside pockets.  The pattern did not have directions to line nor did it have good directions for making a welted pocket... So if you look at some of the recent older postings (Sept 20-24), you will find my directions for making a welted pocket that should work better for you.

I decided to do some decorative top stitching to match the lining and also the button holes. 
The top stiching was done with a thicker top stitching thread and if you try this on a project, be sure to use a top stitching needle.

The buttons were taken off the Professor's old vest.

The pockets where slip stitched to the inside.
One pocket for his wallet and the other for his glasses and pens.