The Bubblegum Coat Pattern

The fabulous Kate of See Kate Sew recently released an amazing collection of patterns, including the Bubblegum Coat, which I was most fortunate to test for her.

When I agreed to test this pattern for Kate, I had never before attempted to sew a coat or jacket. At first, I was intimidated by the idea of making a long-sleeved, buttoned-up, fully-lined garment, but once I read her pattern instructions, I was surprised at the simplicity of the entire design!

First of all, like all of Kate's other patterns, the illustrations and directions are clear and concise, and the level of detail is outstanding.

I used the sizing chart of the Bubblegum Coat Pattern to determine that my little girl needed the size 6. Ella is only 4 and a half, but she is tall and growing like a weed!  I knew the sleeves would be a little long, but I decided to keep the extra length so that the ends could be turned up to show off the beautiful lining fabric. As an added bonus, I'm sure Ella will be able to wear this coat next year, too!

Speaking of fabrics, the exterior is a wool fabric that I purchased nearly 20 years ago at the Piece Goods Shop (not even sure that chain still exists).  It must have been on sale because I had roughly 6 yards of it, but this project took less than 2 yards of that (it is 60" wide though).  I love the plaid and mix of fall colors!

For the lining, I used Anna Maria Horner's Loulou Thi in Summer Totem Strudel.  This fabric had all the colors used in the plaid, and because of the larger print, worked perfectly for the lining.  Oh, and did I mention that I happened to have 2 yards of it on hand already!  So no shopping for fabric was required to complete this project!

The brown buttons were rescued off a brown corduroy vest that I had purchased at Goodwill for 99 cents last year.  That was definitely worth the investment, plus I still have 4 or 5 buttons left!

The detailing of the coat is what makes it so special.  I love the cute little rounded pockets with a buttoned flap, and the subtle gathers on the front and back at the waist area add a sweet, feminine touch.

I'm already plotting the next Bubblegum Coat that I'll make Ella.  I'm considering a corduroy version or perhaps a lightweight coat made in all quilting cotton fabrics.  Oh, the possibilities!

You know you want the Bubblegum Coat Pattern, so just go buy it at See Kate Sew's Pattern Shop! You'll be glad you did!