Moto Jacket by Jennuine Design

I've had the fun chance to participate in a bunch of tests over the last couple of weeks...it keeps me sewing when I don't really have anything else on my table to get done. 

The Moto Jacket by Jennuine Designs is another one of those fun tests that I was able to do.  When I say fun, I mean fun pattern and fun person to test for.  This jacket is a very versatile pattern.

Pattern: Moto Jacket by Jennuine Designs goes up to size 12.  It's a motorcycle style jacket that is tighter in the sleeves than a normal jacket...for wearing over t-shirts not sweaters.

Supplies: Up to 1 1/2 yards of fabric for main (something durable and you can even use leather), 3/4yard for sleeves (great for upcycling sweaters, but any thicker knit would work) and 7/8 yard for lining as well as a separating zipper.

For both of the jackets that I made, I actually used a heavier weight home decor fabric for the main fabric, flannel for the lining and jegging knit for the sleeve, collar and welts. Not too heavy and hopefully perfect for the Fall temperatures.

Difficulty: I would say a perfect pattern for an adventurous advanced beginner or intermediate seamstress.  There are zippers and welt pockets involved, but the instructions are clear and will walk you through each process thoroughly. Besides those 2 things, the pattern is actually really easy.

Good: Very trendy and versatile pattern...perfect for girls and boys and perfect for the Moto trend that's hit the runways as of late. Also a very well written pattern that is easy to follow and walks you through some more difficult steps.

Bad: The Moto Jacket only goes up to size 12, so it doesn't cover all of the tween sizes. 

Ugly: There really isn't anything ugly about this pattern. 

This was a really fun pattern to see through the testing process as it was more involved/more detailed than anything I've ever tested before. This is one great pattern that lends itself to a lot of variation and interpretation. While it doesn't fall in a necessity category, it would be a fun addition to any wardrobe!

I give the Moto Jacket 4 Lightening Bolts!

Disclaimer: I received the pattern for free as part of the testing process, but all opinions are entirely my own.

If you want to seem my other version (which I really love how it turned out!), check out my other blog here. (I really love how this picture turned out too...but I may be biased)

Pixie Hooded Coat by Big Little

I was lucky to get chosen for the test of  the Pixie Hooded Coat by Big Little.

If you want a versatile coat pattern, this is a great find. Depending on the fabric choice, this would make a great Spring, Autumn or Winter coat.

For this coat I used a home decorating fabric for the outside (from JoAnn's) and I cut up a fuzzy blanket for the lining (found on clearance at Target). But it would be great in lighter weight fabrics as well. You'll also need something for the closure (she lists great options in the pattern).

You can find the pattern over at the Big Little Shop along with the Pea Coat version that just has a collar.  It's listed for $8.50 and comes in sizes 1-14. And there's also a women's pattern in the works as well.

As there are no zippers, button holes on any of that kind of stuff that might be a little scary, I would say this is a great beginner pattern, with an outcome that will have people saying, "You sewed that?!?"  Lisa does a great job with instructions and it went through a series of tests to make sure everything was just so, so you know you are getting a good pattern.

The Good: This is a great versatile pattern. You'll be able to use it for multiple seasons and across many ages.  It is also a super easy pattern, with great written/visual instructions, that comes together super fast. I finished this in a morning and my husband just looked at me and said "You just made that in the couple of hours you were sewing?"

The pattern also has a rounded hood option that comes with it (added on after the first test to make the pattern more boy and tween friendly). So don't let the pixie hood deter you if your tween turns up their nose at that look. (But you should really look at the cute pictures of toddlers and babies in the pixie hood...they are adorable.) I also made another version for my other daughter, in which I think the pixie hood makes the coat. Sophia didn't think it was so bad and actually wears the coat to middle school...so that's saying something.

Because of the simplicity of the pattern, this would also be a great coat pattern to play around with contrasting fabrics, color blocking, bias tape, etc...to make it a show piece.

As for the bad and ugly...there are none. I really did enjoy making this pattern and will probably be making one for me in the future. I need a light weight Spring/Fall jacket, so I'm on the hunt for the perfect fabric. Again the pattern is the Pixie Hooded Coat by BigLittle.

This is a 5 bolt pattern!!!