
When I think of cold snaps, I usually think of New England and the upper Midwest. But this winter, places all over the map are seeing (and feeling) the cold. If you’re new to cold weather, or if you want to zhuzh up your winter wardrobe, we’ve got some ideas for you.
Embrace the season with stylish and practical handmade pieces. When you make your own clothes, do-it-yourself cold-weather sewing can be varied and personalized. If you are new to garment sewing, you may want to start with one easy project to build confidence and warmth.
Coats & Jackets
Sewing a coat or jacket gives you the freedom to express your style and create a unique garment. You can make it in a luxurious wool, rugged canvas, or even experiment with boldly printed coating or lining; your fabric choices will reflect your taste in the finished garment. Pair fabric with design details like statement collars, dramatic lengths, or tailored silhouettes, and you’ve got a wardrobe standout. Choose from a variety of looks—cozy chic or refined elegance, for example—and you’ll discover sewing your own coat is the ultimate way to merge function and fashion.
Closet Core Phoebe Coat

Meet Closet Core’s Phoebe Coat, which blends modern flair with timeless charm. This double-breasted, fully lined beauty features a cocoon shape, perfect for wrapping yourself in style and warmth. Phoebe’s especially wide notched collar and lapel add a touch of drama. The dropped shoulders, roomy two-piece sleeves, and oversized fit, mean this coat is designed for easy layering.
Choose from two options: View A, with its below-the-knee length and patch pockets, or View B, a mid-thigh version with in-seam pockets. Whether you’re new to tailoring or looking for your next wardrobe staple, Phoebe is guaranteed to keep you warm and chic on even the coldest days.
This pattern spans sizes XXS (bust 31 inches, hips 33 inches) to 4X (bust 60, hips 62 inches).
Sew Over It Chloe Overcoat
The Chloe Coat is a classic with elegant details and a polished finish. Featuring lined patch pockets, a rounded neckline, and an optional detachable scarf, it’s versatile, stylish, and pairs effortlessly with any outfit. Choose between a zip closure and snaps. Enjoy the semi-loose fit with tailored shoulders and bulk-reducing cut-away darts on the lower left and right front.
The Chloe design can be worn year-round, depending on your fabric choices. From cozy wool for winter to lightweight viscose linen for spring, this pattern is a true blank canvas, ready for creative touches with solids or bold prints.
It is available in U.S. sizes 8 to 20 (bust 33 inches to 45 inches, waist 26 inches to 38 inches, hip 36 inches to 48 inches).
Birgitta Helmersson ZW Oversized Coat

The ZW (zero-waste) coat pattern is your go-to for an oversized, unlined, unisex coat that blends style with ease. Designed with batwing sleeves, shawl collar, and patch pockets, it has two options: a short version, with a front button closure and cuff sleeves; and a long version, with a button closure and waist tie. If you’d like to add a lining, there are tips to help you along.
Perfect for all skill levels, this pattern offers a progression path: The short coat is beginner-friendly, while the long coat is ideal for intermediate sewers. Start with the short coat as a foundation, then take on the long coat next, as many of the steps will be familiar, making your sewing journey enjoyable.
Because this is a zero-waste design, you will use up nearly every scrap of the chosen fabric. It’s ideal for patterned blankets, as shown, where you’ll want to take advantage of every square inch.
The pattern does not come with full-size pattern pieces. Instead, it provides a cutting plan and small templates to guide you in drawing pattern pieces directly onto the fabric. The pattern comes in one size and fits chests 33 inches to 40 inches and hips 34 inches to 42 inches.
Are you looking for more zero-waste patterns? Check out our zero-waste pattern roundup.
Orageuse Riga Coat
This chic, oversized coat is belted at the waist and has low, wide armholes, two large pockets, and a small standing collar. The front opening creates a slight V-neckline. The belt is the only closure, and it’s secured by a wide belt carrier across the back. Sizes in French 34 to 46 (bust 31-1/2 inches to 41 inches, waist 24-1/2 inches to 44 inches, hip 34 inches to 43-1/2 inches).
Vogue Patterns Misses’ Coats V2075
Discover the charm of loose-fitting coats designed for ultimate comfort and style. These coats feature long dolman sleeves, asymmetrical closure, bound buttonholes, and practical front pockets, offering a chic yet relaxed silhouette. With two distinct variations, you can tailor the design to suit your preference.
View A shows plenty of character with its stand-up collar, contrast cuffs, and pocket flaps. View B offers a cozy alternative with its self-lined hood, perfect for extra warmth on chilly days. Whether you’re looking for a bold statement or a versatile wardrobe staple, these coats provide possibilities for customization and layering.
The design comes in misses’ sizes 6 to 26 (bust 30-1/2 inches to 48 inches, waist 23 inches to 41-1/2 inches, hip 32-1/2 inches to 50 inches).
Vogue Patterns Misses’ Capes and Belt V2054
Unlined capes offer elegance and practicality. These designs have a sharp pointed collar, a structured collar stand, epaulets, and front slit openings for arm movement. With a button-front closure and detailed topstitching, these easy-to-wear capes are as polished as they are functional.
View A brings a touch of charm with buttoned faux flap pockets at the chest. For those who love a cinched silhouette, View B has a matching belt that threads through a bound buttonhole opening at the waist. It also has front welt pockets. Whether you prefer a sleek and simple look or a belted style, these capes are versatile pieces ready to elevate any outfit.
The design comes in misses’ sizes 6 to 26 (bust 30-1/2 inches to 48 inches, waist 23 inches to 41-1/2 inches, hip 32-1/2 inches to 50 inches).
Tops & Layering Basics
Layering is key when you want to be stylish and warm during the winter months. By choosing patterns for tops and pants designed to accommodate multiple layers, you can build a wardrobe that works for any temperature or occasion. Experiment with soft knits for cozy base layers, crisp cottons for tailored shirts, or fluid fabrics for a relaxed, draped look. Add your own flair with color blocking, fun prints, or textural details like ribbing and piping.
Pattern Fantastique Glacial Skivvy Tee
The Glacial Base Layer is a wardrobe essential designed for comfort. It can be worn on its own or with layers. Choose from three neckline styles, including a turtleneck option, when creating this streamlined shape. The subtle shirttail hemline adds refinement, while the broad shoulder line and sculpted armhole give this classic piece a modern, elevated edge.
Crafted with merino knits in mind, the Glacial maximizes the thermal qualities of the fabric, making it a welcome companion on colder days, whether you’re dressing for the outdoors or keeping warm indoors.
U.S. sizes 6 to 18 (bust 31-7/8 inches to 43-11/16 inches, waist 24-7/16 inches to 36-3/16 inches, hip 34-5/8 inches to 46-7/16 inches).
Itch to Stitch Isidro Top
The Isidro Top, a timeless addition to your wardrobe, balances style and versatility. It can e layered under a jacket on cooler days or worn solo in warmer weather. Its adaptable design pairs well with a flared or maxi skirt, or voluminous pants.
The Isidro Top features center-front neckline gathers for an attractive fit and a scoop neckline with a neat neckband. Choose between the sleek sleeveless option or the whimsical gathered butterfly sleeves.
U.S. sizes 00 to 20 (bust 31-1/8 inches to 46-1/4 inches, waist 25-3/4 inches to 40-1/2 inches, hip 33-1/8 inches to 48-1/4 inches).
Tilly and the Buttons Drew Sweatshirt
With its easy-fitting design and raglan seams, this pattern is simple to sew quickly. Plus, it is a fantastic introduction to working with stretch knit fabrics. Stitch it on a regular sewing machine with a zigzag stitch or use a serger.
The sweatshirt’s oversized fit features deep raglan sleeves and ribbed bands at the hem and sleeve cuffs. Choose between a hip-length or cropped hemline, as well as a color-blocked option. Drew combines comfort, versatility, and a chance to show off your unique style.
Women’s sizes 2 to 20 (bust 30 inches to 48 inches, waist 24 inches to 42 inches, hip 33 inches to 51 inches).
Fibre Mood Peaches Wide-Leg Pants
For a stylish winter wardrobe staple, look no further than the Peaches trousers. The pleated, fly-front design brings a polished, fashion-forward look for all ages. With a flattering high waist, wide legs, and practical side pockets, these trousers are functional and chic.
EU sizes 32 to 58 (bust 30 inches to 57-1/2 inches, waist 26 inches to 52-1/2 inches, hip 34 inches to 57 inches).
Christine Jonson Straight-Leg Pants
The Straight-Leg Pant is a wardrobe essential that combines simplicity with comfort. These close-fitting pants feature a self-faced waistline for a clean and polished look—no elastic needed. Thanks to the use of negative ease and 100 percent stretch fabrics, these pants offer an ultra-comfortable fit that moves with you.
Suitable for lounging or layering under tunics and sweaters, the Straight-Leg Pant is versatile and comfortable. Whether you’re new to sewing or a seasoned sewist, this pattern makes it easy to create a stylish pair of go-to pants you’ll love wearing every day. Learn more about sewing knit pants with Christine Jonson in this article from Threads #219.
U.S. sizes 4 to 38 (waist 24 inches to 57 inches, hip 33 inches to 68 inches).
Have you made any of these patterns? If so, be sure to share pictures in our Readers Closet gallery or tag us on Instagram with #memadethreads.
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