September and October will be the months for our quilted coat sew-along!

 If you are interested in participating, here is some information to help you prepare. 

What to Expect

Now: you can be making your choices about sewing pattern and fabric layout (the quilt)

Hovea Coat

    How to choose a sewing pattern:

• The coat style should be simple. Drop sleeves and collarless styles work best.
• See this pinterest board for several appropriate options.
• OR use one of two patterns chosen by Carrie and Carolyn for ease and simplicity so you get first-hand tips from us!
• Carrie made the Hovea Coat by Megan Nielson (view D)
• Carolyn is making the Noh Coat by Bonnie Cashin
• Sizing: refer to the bust, waist and hip measurements on the pattern, NOT the size number.  You might have to size up if you select a pattern that was not originally drafted to be used with bulky/quilted fabric.

 How to choose the quilt/fabric:

• You can start with an already-made quilt that you will cut up into pattern pieces.  Make sure you consult the yardage requirements on the pattern to be sure the quilt is big enough to accommodate the pattern.
• You can start from scratch. With this option, you create small quilt sandwiches that are just bigger than each pattern piece like Bethany shows here. Allow for shrinkage, as you will need to prewash your sections before cutting into them.
• Pay attention to the quilt backing, which will serve as the coat lining, and the binding, especially if you want the coat to be reversible! 
• Lots of inspiration on the pinterest board.

September 28: Zoom meeting: pre-assembly Q&A  

• This will be an opportunity to ask questions or share experiences about any part of your quilt coat journey. What pattern did you choose? Do you still need help choosing? Are you cutting up an existing quilt? How did you decide to layout your design? Need any help deciding? What else do we need to think about before the sew-in?
• If comfortable, start cutting your pattern sections at home before the October workshop.

October 29: In-person workshop: (cutting), assembling and binding

• At this workshop (location TBD), bring your supplies and machines.
• Doesn't matter how far along (or behind!) your project is .
• Since we won't all be making the same pattern, there will not be any step-by-step instruction at the workshop. However, there may be demonstrations on techniques required for various common steps. 
• Carrie and Carolyn (and other members) will be there to coach anyone who wants help. 

Questions:

• carolyn.zinn@gmail.com
• carrie.lowney@yahoo.com