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1. 
   sewelegant | Apr 07, 2008 11:24pm | #1

   I'm sure you'll get many better responses to your question than I am giving because I am an older sewer and have made several coats and jackets in the past but never felt like I really knew how to "tailor".  I was happy with my results just following the pattern directions and advice I'd find in the sewing books I had on hand, one being the Vogue Sewing Book.  Boucle has a good amt. of body built in, doesn't it?  I made a chanel type of jacket from a boucle type fabric in the 60's and it was very easy to work with.  Today we have the iron on interfacing and I've made jackets using this (I think its called weft) and it responds nicely.  if you visit your fabric store interfacing dept. you can feel all the different things available and see what you think would give you the "hand" you want.  I ordered this video because I wanted to see how it is being done today and I find it helpful.  http://petitepluspatterns.com/They have a sampling on the web page so you can see for yourself how it works.  They go throught the whole process of making a jacket.  Not of boucle, more of a twill or linen type fabric, but some interesting techniques.  I know there are many who know of better aids, but this is a start.  I do think using a wooden block helps 100% in pressing the seams open and if you do not have one, do get one.  It makes a world of difference in how nicely your seams stay open as pressed.  I went for years knowing about it but ignoring it and wonder now why I was so reluctant to try it!  I really like Judy Barlup's Japanese tailoring advice  http://uniquetechniques.com  do check her out.  I have not purchased anything from her, just seen her on various sewing shows and have copied lots of her advice and techniques over the years that were free.  I have heard from those who have taken her classes that she is a wonderful easy going teacher and the products she produces are simple and elegant.