So I cut my fronts, back, sides and collar bits as well as the front facings and set off on my making a jacket toile journey.
It started so well, I remembered to stick all the lines and blobs on the right side and started sewing bits together as per pattern (ignoring the interfacing bits) and then I discovered I needed roll tape (I don't have any) so I cut two strips of calico and sewed them on (no idea what they do) and carried on. Got to welt pockets. I hadn't cut the bag bit as was in my linings pile and didn't think I needed it. Thought I'd read through the instructions and no idea what they were going on about once I looked at the pictures. So I did the flaps and have left them unattached. I am claiming it is because I haven't fitted the jacket yet and feel that needs doing first
Attached front bits, back bits, side bits. Realised I'd actually sewed the armholes shut so un did that bit (good job the whole lot is being done with machine basting) and looked ok.
Came to attach the undercollar and it wanted me to clip the neckline. I didn't want to as I'm certain it will need adjusting and I'd rather not have chunks cut out that I might need later. So I sewed it on with the clips. And it fit really really well!
I am amazing I thought. I was born to do this! Then I read the next instruction and all of my bravado vanished. I had no idea how to attach the upper collar to my front facings. The picture was useless. The words were useless. I pick up my borrowed bible and there it is! How to attach it! Brilliant. I do so and feel victorious once again.
Now to attach the facings to the front. I discover my 'roll tape' is on the front and it should be inside. Never fear! I think, 'tis but a toile. So I start sewing my facings on. The more I sew the worse I feel. Thern are roll lines in possibly but possibly not weird places. The lapel seems much smaller now (again I didn't clip anything as it might all need adjusting) and I'm not sure I've done it right, it looks a bit of a mess. I haven't pressed it yet but I'm not sure I want to!
I'm not sure what comes next but I have a feeling it's sewing the collar bits together... And then the terrifying sleevies.
I was told to measure the back and my back and see how they match up and to adjust. It's possibly a half inch or so too long.. And it's definitely too wide, but as it is made up of front, side back, and back and possibly a side front, I don't know where to make the change. So I'll wait for my tailoring boot camp at the weekend!
It is so hard to stick with 1/2" seams, I'm so used to 1/4"! I find myself reverting and having to correct.