The Spencer Jacket

Here's how the jacket turned out - I'm really pleased with it actually, it feels lovely to wear and very snug fitting without being too tight.

I used a sage green corduroy, interlined with cotton sateen and lined with a sage green polyester 'mock silk' - whoops! I really caved on this - I was planning to use natural fabrics only but there was no silk available in the colour I wanted so I decided to go with the lovely shiny polyester. It was a nightmare to work with though, so serves me right. Looks great though.

I knew the jacket would be a challenge but all Nick's help (endless fittings and pinnings) was worth it! For the collar facing I used some heavy duty canvas left over from a harpsichord cover, and with 2 pieces of rigilene boning I got the 'standup' look I wanted. I had to re-do the waistband as it was originally too thick. Looking at the proportions in my reference book I knew it had to be daintier.

The sleeves were tricky - I cut my own pattern pieces because the actual pattern was simple straight sleeves. Unfortunately I managed to make one arm just a bit too tight - enough to notice - so I ended up having to buy more fabric to re-make the sleeve. I also messed up the piping on one arm, getting the join at the front rather than somewhere less noticeable! Nevertheless I loved some of the details like the button cuffs, the diamond shaped back and the peplum. It took a while to get the button placement correct so that the the bodice sat smoothly - once again I'm indebted to Saira Foden for her advice. Saira is a mine of fantastic knowledge about dressmaking, tailoring, historical costume and general tips and tricks. Her shop The-Stitchery has become like a second home to me and it's where I bought all the fabrics and notions I needed for this project.

Comments

[Ruth]

You have done a wonderful job on the jacket and dress!

[Anne Chambers]

Hi I've just sourced this pattern and hope thhat they can get it to me as it's out of stock at the moment. Hope mine turns out like yours ... well done your article is inspiring and extremely useful. Thanks so much for sharing.
I'll be gutted if I cant find the pattern now! Have you seen the one in the Side Saddle Lady gallery? I think it's the same pattern.
Regards Anne

[Robin]

Hi Anne, best of luck with getting hold of the pattern and thanks for your kind comments. I haven't seen the Side Saddle Lady gallery, no, but will look for it now! I'm in the middle of making a new dress using the same pattern but the round gown rather than the panelled dress which this one was. I think this time I've got the bodice right, I'm doing the crossover style bodice. I will post some pics on here soon.
best wishes, Robin