PATTERN REVIEW: Paola Workwear Jacket in Insignia Blue Linen
PAOLA Jacket in INSIGNIA BLUE Midweight Linen
Ever since I uncovered a vintage French chore jacket at a flea market years ago, I have been obsessed with this timeless jacket design. If you follow me on Pinterest, you are not surprised to read this. I have dreamed of creating my own version for a while and finally found the perfect sewing pattern to do it!
PAOLA Jacket in INSIGNIA BLUE Midweight Linen
Using the vintage jacket as inspiration, I decided to sew the PAOLA Jacket in Midweight INSIGNIA BLUE linen with contrasting white buttons. The fabric color reminded me of a favorite pair of worn-in denim blue jeans, but in a lighter weight and softer drape. Since I have wide shoulders and a straight body type, I chose to include only the bottom two pockets, omitting the top pockets for a less boxy style. I like the simplicity and feminine look with less pockets, especially since I already have a couple 4-pocket chore jackets in my wardrobe. If I were to make another one, I would consider adding top pockets to the inside of the garment, which is popular on many vintage chore jackets.
PAOLA Jacket in INSIGNIA BLUE Midweight Linen
I made my normal size 2 and was so happy with the amount of ease included in the pattern as well as the length of the body and sleeves. I followed the pattern exactly, finishing with french seams. This pattern was easy to follow and produced a beautifully fitting jacket. It’s a perfect weight and style for layering on chilly nights. I’m already thinking about making a few more in a natural canvas, faded denim, and olive linen. Will be wearing this one all spring and summer long!
If you want to tackle sewing a jacket, I would start here. Fabrics-store has wonderful step-by-step instructions here on the blog for this free pattern. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions about the sewing process or finished product. Happy to share my experience!
Happy sewing,
Morgann
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About Author
Morgann McCoy
Morgann is the owner, designer, and seamstress behind A Well Worn Story, a sewing studio in southern Wisconsin creating handcrafted leather and canvas bags inspired by adventure.Leave a comment
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6 Comments
Aurime Bockute
Hi Morgann,
Lovely jacket! Your example and review convinced me to try it out.
I was wondering, do you think this pattern would work with a dry oilskin fabric, or is it only meant for linens? I have my eye on this gorgeous fern green color…
Thank you!
Simone Kereit
Looks beautiful! I love the way it looks so cozy and lived in, not stiff! Did you use the IL019 or the 4C22 linen? Your post says Mid weight, but the link goes to the heavy weight linen?
Thanks!
Mary Horning
I am an experienced sewer but have never learned to work with a pattern that I have to print out. I need to learn how cuz I love that jacket and want to make it! Do you just print off the pieces and tape together?
Jo Booth
Yes, and there are markers on each sheet to line up so each piece is measured as intended. The tricky part is getting the PDF file up in view. It is very easy, and I know you will be successful!
Morgann McCoy
Hey Mary! Yes, I print the pages, cut off the edges, tape together, then cut out the actual pattern pieces. You might want to tape the back side as well to make the pattern a little sturdier. It’s super easy, but a little more time consuming, so just allow yourself time for printing, cutting, and taping your pattern pieces together. Your pattern will come with printing instructions. I always do a test print of just the first page and measure the square to confirm the pattern pieces are the correct size. Depending on your printer settings, you might need to unselect the “fit to page” function to get the right size. Let me know if you have any other questions! Happy sewing 🙂
Morgann McCoy
Hey Simone! Great question. I used the IL019 mid-weight for this piece. You can find it here: https://fabrics-store.com/fabrics/linen-fabric-IL019-insignia-blue-softened-middle It’s a wonderful weight for spring/summer and feels easy to layer 🙂 happy sewing!