I had a productive week of sewing between christmas and new years, but not as productive as I thought it'd be! I did get a lot of things half started though, which is good. January is going to be very busy, and it'll be easier to finish half finished things then to complete whole projects. Even then, the odds aren't great for much january sewing: work is super busy, and between my speedwork running class and my winter Frosty Frisbee outdoor ultimate league, my saturdays are out of commission for the next 6 weeks (but in a fun way!).

First up is the crowing achievement of my winter break sewing: a new winter coat.

Have I mentioned how much I love my new baby lock? How many layers it sews through with ease? LOVE it. This is the hotpatterns Deco Vibe Cocoon Coat. I need to try and get a better shot of it, but I absolutely love it. Which is good, because Patternreview was not kind. I didn't check until after I'd bought the pattern, but it seemed this one became a wadder for a lot of people. Personally, I didn't have much trouble with it! I like making raglan sleeved garments and have made them before. This coat had a facing at the top of the sleeve lining which prevented those glimpses of lining you sometimes get around the neck, which I really liked. The only problem I had was with the sleeves. The envelope said bracelet length. I wanted full length, so I prophylactically added two inches. The end result was still 3/4 length, far shorter than I'd hoped.

For warmth, I interlined the silk charmeuse lining with some insulated lining material I found at Gaffney's in philadelphia. It adds a LOT of volume and some stiffness to the coat, but I have to say that the extra layer of lining is the only thing which has gotten me through the artic temperatures we've been having in new york! I also took the time to add (simple, on seam) pockets, which has helped tremendously to keep my hands warm. I'll try and take a picture of the lining.

This is another Chanel style jacket which I finished over break. At this point the pattern is definitely a TNT and a I will be making many more of these in the future, on top of the 3 I already have.

I was originally on the fence regarding this fabric - it was very cheap online, and I bought it to fill out an order with some other wool I was getting (I forget the site), but I really like how this looks made up, especially with my ridiculously excessive quintuple strand of vintage faux pearls.

This dress - well, no dissembling it, I cut the skirt pretty off grain. I keep telling myself its only noticeable to me - but looking at the picture, it seems pretty obvious! This fabric is more from the Vera collection, its the bit I had leftove after making a little 60s jacket, which is currently 3/4 assembled. I wish I hadn;t been soo hasty/sloppy on the dress, but its a good reminder of why I need to be more careful and slow when cutting!