The Completed Altered Winter Jacket

I’ve finally finished my DH’s new winter jacket!

I’ve shared a few different glimpses into the process over the past couple of weeks (here’s the first one, second, third and fourth) and now that it’s actually finished, you can see how it came together:

I added a few extra details to the original pattern.  The pattern came with two inset pockets in the front seams and an extra cell phone or MP3 pocket on the chest.  Of course, that wasn’t enough pockets!

I added two cargo patch pockets, with flaps that velcro close, that sit over the hips.  I also inserted a zipper into the cell phone pocket – let’s face it, who wants to lose their expensive cell phone because it’s slipped out of a pocket!

The collar can be worn up or down and I added some extra insulation but layering fleece between the two layers of outer fabric:

The jacket also got modified by adding a placket over the zipper:

It keeps those chilly winter winds from coming in through the zipper.  The placket closes with velcro, for an extra layer of security.  You can also see the lining, which is actually a re-purposed nylon and Thinsulate blanket.

Overall, the jacket took longer than I was expecting (this pattern normally takes me less than 4 hours to sew) but I think it was a successful project – now to test it when the snow flies…

images: © C Findlay-Harder