This review was originally featured in Threads #174 (August/September 2014).

Center for Pattern Design: Bias Tier Coat

This striking design is chic and easy to wear. The pleasing A-line silhouette is fully lined, has fitted shoulders, kimono-style sleeves, and is worn on the bias. Lay the fabric on a large cutting area so the fabric doesn’t hang over the edge. Then, double-check the grainlines, and handle the cut pieces carefully. While all the pattern notches match, the shading for pieces 7 and 8 on the cutting layouts should be reversed. Also, on the front lining pattern piece, make a 2-inch hem allowance instead of a 2-1⁄2-inch one as written. The pattern does not include step-by-step instructions, but there is helpful information on fabric selection, cutting, and hints for putting the coat together. Our tester advises reading this information carefully to discover recommended sewing details to make this design. Use a stable fabric for this pattern, as fabric with stretch will sag. The sample coat was made in striped cotton corduroy from New York Elegant Fabrics.

(Sized S-L [6-18] for busts 30.5-40 in. and hips 32.5-42 in.)

Sewing tip: To increase upper arm fullness, adjust the sleeve width at a point below the shoulder curve.

-Tested by Janith Bergeron, Barrington, New Hampshire

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