Quilt Top Short Suit Set
Originally published with the Modern Quilt Guild on October 15, 2019.
This project stands as proof that procrastination doesn't always result in regret. I made this set using a quilt top that was initially supposed to be a lap quilt, made using 16-patch blocks and sew classic linen look fabric JoAnn. At first, I tried 2-inch squares, but I quickly changed it to 4-inch squares after I completed two patches. I started the quilt in early July intending to gift it to a friend as a birthday present in early August. However, between work and other social obligation, the quilt got put on the back burner. Before I knew it, August was here, and the lap quilt was none existing. I did what I should have done in July and made my way to a store to buy her a gift, and the quilt top got added to my WIP pile. I pulled it out a couple of weeks ago to finish, but since my living room could do without another throw blanket, I figured this quilt top would be of more value to me as a garment. And there you have it, proof that procrastination can yield surprising yet amazing results.
Initially, I wanted to make the entire outfit from the quilt top, but after I laid out all of the pattern pieces, I realized that it wasn't big enough for both a jacket and short. I settled on making the shorts entirely from the quilt top and using the quilt top to color block the suit jacket. Luckily for me, JoAnn still had the red linen-look fabric in stock, so I grabbed another yard for the jacket and got to work. Since I quilted on my serger, I didn't have to worry about fraying or finishing the quilt seams.
I used Simplicity 1421 and Vogue 9257 to create this set. This is my second time making a blazer using 1421, the first time I made View C (with the collar and contrast border). This blazer is View A. The only adjustment I made to the pattern was lengthening it by three inches. View A, as designed, stops a few inches below your waist, but I prefer for my blazer hem to sit at my hip or just past it. The shorts were made using Vogue 9257, which is rated a "very easy" pattern. I chose this pattern because I love the loose fit and pleat detail. I knew it would fit perfectly with my style preference as cooler temps roll in. For casual weekend socials, I usually wear fitted sweaters, thick tights, and ankle booties, or combat style boots.
As someone with little experience making pants, I would say that it was a relatively easy project. To decrease bulk in the seams, I used leftover linen pieces to cut the waistband facing and pocket lining pieces. This was my first time making shorts and my first pant project with a fly front zipper. Fortunately, Threads Magazine has an extremely helpful video demonstrating the technique, which helped me tremendously. I made two adjustments to this pattern for my derriere: increased the back rise and deepened the crotch curve by a 1/2 inch. I also added a second button to the waistband closure. With that being said, I find myself happy that I didn't finish the lap quilt in time to be gifted. I am so excited about this set, and I know I am going to have fun styling it for the next few months.
