My latest sewing project could be rightfully referred to my stash-busting Make Nine projects for 2025, as it makes use of a pattern by Love Notions, which I had not yet used and two pieces of fabric in my stash, remnants from other projects.
I bought the black jersey for a zippered sweater I made for Gaby at the end of 2023 and the complementary colored ponte is from my first Sabrina Slims.
When I printed the pages of the Metra Blazer and spread them on the black jersey, it became obvious, that I wouldn't be able to make a jacket out of this fabric. Still, I wanted to try the pattern, I am petite and I was quite willing to go for a shorter version of the blazer.
In the end, with some strategic calculations and placements of the pattern pieces, I was able to cut two fronts, two back pieces and two 3/4 sleeves out of my meager piece of main fabric. At this point of the planning I was positive I wanted to use up only fabric from my stash, so there were just a couple of contenders for the lapels and sleeve hems. In the end it was the dark green/white ponte that won me over and I should say, I am happy with my choice.
I didn't have enough ponte for two whole fronts, so the inner part of the colorful fronts, not seen from the outside, is made out of polyester lining fabric, as is actually the custom with lined blazers. I debated with myself whether to line the whole jacket, but in the end decided to keep it simple and line only the fronts, as is per pattern. The idea was to make a light summer blazer and I know from experience that a full lining would have added weight and warmth, unnecessary for warm spring and summer.
Size: xs
Fabric: ponte, 100% polyester
Time to make: two weeks
The only thing, that I would change, if I were to make this blazer again, is the pockets. As they are, these are faux welt pockets - they don't have pocket bags and in fact the entire front is the pocket. Thus the pockets could be used to put your hands in them, but they are not functional as places to keep your keys or other small things in. I know that plenty of women frown upon the idea of carrying items in your blazer pockets, but I prefer practical pockets and next time I would add actual pocket bags.
Although I did reduce the length of the blazer drastically - probably by 7 cm, I like it as it is and I wouldn't add much length to a future variation of the blazer, if I decide to make it again.
These pictures were take during our walk around Vrana on the second day of Easter and I combined the blazer with my black Burda jeans and Burda short sleeve blouse.
PS I've been going out and about town in this blazer yesterday and today and I actually find it very practical for the transitional weather. It might turn out to be a useful addition to my wardrobe after all.
