Alina Sewing + Design Co.: Fulton Sweater Blazer 1222

This is an open-front, blazer-like cardigan designed for knits, and features a notch collar, large patch pockets, two sleeve lengths, and a center-back seam. Both the three-quarter and the full-length sleeves can be folded up and cuffed to expose the wide hem facing. The jacket is unlined and two lengths are available, just below hip or knee length. It can be made any length, following the pattern’s detailed instructions and shortening and lengthening lines.

• The ease is about 2 inches at the bust and hip, appropriate to wear over lightweight garments. If you plan on wearing it over thick clothing, the instructions say to size up.
• The finished garment measurements given on the pattern are accurate, the notches match correctly, and adjoining seamlines are the same length. The instructions and illustrations are meticulous, including helpful hints and suggestions throughout the process. There are additional tutorials and video sew-alongs on the designer’s website.
• In the section describing how to attach the sleeve facing, the pattern goes into great detail on sewing the seam and understitching the facing, where it may be difficult to maneuver.

Our tester found the most difficult element to be the collar, although the clear instructions and video assistance mean a beginner sewer would likely be able to tackle this pattern. Because this is a basic silhouette with few pattern pieces, it is ideal for embellishments such as allover embroidery, iron-on crystals, or sew-on embellishments. Select midweight to heavyweight stable knits such as double knits, stretch velour, ponte, scuba knit, or French terry. On heavier knits with a lot of structure and body, you may be able to skip the interfacing.

(Sized 0–18 for busts 32–44.5 in. and hips 34–46.5 in.)

AlinaDesignCo.com

—Tested by Michele Kwiatkowski, Danbury, Connecticut

Style tip: Adapt the patch pocket into a side-seam pocket or a welt pocket for a more streamlined look.

This review was originally published in Threads #211, October/November 2020. Have you made this pattern? If so, be sure to share pictures in our Readers Closet gallery.

Illustrations by Steven Fleck.