Patricia’s Jacket – Upcycled Quilt

Description

I like to upcycle old quilts and make them wearable so they can be appreciated by other people.  I know cutting a quilt can be controversial so I am selective about those I cut to make jackets with.  I will upcycle quilts I make, quilts whose makers have given me approval to cut and upcycle them, factory made quilts, and quilts I have bought whose life as a blanket has come to a tattered end.

Patricia, a member of my quilt guild, Northern Star Quilters’ Guild in Westchester County, NY, likes the quilt jackets I make. So much so, she gifted me a king-size Log Cabin style quilt she had stored away in a closet and she gave me permission to cut it for making jackets.  The quilt was large enough to make two jackets so I made one for her (see the photo).  I am not sure who will get the other jacket, but I am sure it will find a good home.

Patricia and I worked together closely on the design.   We started with dolman sleeves which made for a bulky back sleeve.  We settled on set-in sleeves which gave Patricia a fit she liked better.  Using her body measurements, it took three pattern changes before we had a sloper which fit right.  The sloper was used as the basis for the final pattern.  Patricia asked that I keep the pattern simple with no collar, patch pockets only, and no closures (I did provide amble binding so I could add a zipper to the front if she would like one in the future).

Patricia will receive her “new” old quilt jacket at our next guild meeting where I will present it to her during our “show and tell” time.

Making this jacket for Patricia using her old quilt takes it out of storage, gives it a new life, and lets Patricia enjoy her quilt in a new way.

Jim S.