Warm and Cosy contest - Jan & Feb 2024

[Tamnymore]

Yes I've noticed that Minerva always seem to be more expensive and Croftmill can often be more expensive too. It's quite a change as in the old days when they did funny descriptions and had a print catalogue Croftmill used to be very cheap.

[Ouryve]

That's why I was so surprised, @Ohsewsimple. Some of it was old colours or old bases but not all of it. I usually avoid the place entirely because of the inflated prices.

[SewRuthieSews]

My test coat was progressing quite well until something went wrong with the overlocker - its the most fraying fabric so I'm overlocking all the edges.

Once I've had enough coffee I plan to tackle the overlocker, and then see about some sleeves.
Then I can try it on and see what alterations I might need for my proper version.

[HenriettaMaria]

Coo!  I've just embarked on a hat for great-niece.  It was in January's Inside Crochet magazine and is made in russet, white and black wool to resemble a fox.  Great feed line for a gag: "We're taking the baby to visit her great granny in Monifieth" "Wear the fox hat"

Arf!

[Flobear]

  @HenriettaMaria

[Tamnymore]

Everyone should have a great granny in Monifieth @HenriettaMaria

[SewRuthieSews]

Well I tried on my test coat and its not very flattering (belted wrap front) due to menopause tummy I look like a parcel tied up with string.
So think I might be doing a different view which is single breasted with buttons.

[Tamnymore]

I too find I can't get a good look with a tie belt on coats @SewRuthieSews . Is it the kind of belt which you could just tie round the back without ever going round the tummy? I've done that with a trench coat and I thought it looked ok.

[SewRuthieSews]

I've added a photo of the test coat to the post above. If I tied it at the back it'd just hang open shapelessly, so I'm going to do a different view from the same pattern - Simplicity 4403

[Flobear]

Good decision @SewRuthieSews . I think only a 6ft string bean would be able to wear that coat. We are woman-shaped women not legumes 

[Ouryve]

It's a difficult shape to wear, I agree. Can also look a bit dressing gown like in the wrong fabric.

[Tamnymore]

Ah I see. It needs the belt. I actually think it looks really nice on you @SewRuthieSews but, of course, you have to be happy with it yourself.

[Bodgeitandscarper]

It looks a good fit - how about leave off the belt and add buttons just along the one edge so it's an asymmetric fastening?  I do like the big collar on that view.

[Catllar]

Potentially dipping a toe into this challenge - I have a length of navy boiled wool that needs a coat.   

[CCL]

Question for y'all... does it fall within the rules if I cut the garment out Dec 30-31 but didn't start sewing on it until the new year?  Thinking about dipping my toe in.