How to Sew a Jacket

Choose a pattern. Generally a jacket with fewer details and seams is easier to make. If this is your first jacket, try to find an unlined pattern because they are easier to make.

Use the pattern guide to select your fabric. If the fabric has a one-way design or nap, be sure to allow extra fabric. Also use the pattern guide to purchase any notions you may need such as buttons and interfacing. Prewash the fabric and dry it.

Lay the fabric on a table according to the pattern's directions. Place the pattern on top of that and cut it out. Mark any dots and notches. Leave the pattern pieces pinned to the fabric until you use them.

Make pockets according to pattern directions. Place them on the front of the jacket. Sew them in place. Backstitch on both ends.

Sew side seams and shoulder seams. Press seams open. Sew underarm seams on sleeves. Ease sleeves to fit in sleeve opening. Stitch in place.

Apply interfacing to the collar and facing. Sew the under collar in place on the jacket. Press seams open and clip curves. Prepare the upper collar and facing. Stitch. Also press seams open and clip curves. Pin wrong side of facing to wrong side of jacket matching all seams and notches. Stitch. Trim seams. Turn facing right-side out and press.

Hem the sleeves. Also hem the bottom of the jacket. Make machine buttonholes according to pattern spacing. Sew on the buttons.