I bought this amazing fabric at Allyn’s Fabrics in Denver. This store has been there forever. To give you some idea, the current owners bought it almost 45 years ago. I’m pretty sure some of the fabric is old and priceless. You have to dig while praying that the bolts at the top touching the ceiling don’t come down on you. In some areas my BSF and I needed to use our cell phones as flashlights. The staff is very friendly and it is a must stop in Denver.
I bought two pattern repeats, and proceeded on the search for the perfect jacket/vest design to show off the green border. Finally, it dawned on me that this fabric speaks for itself. I need a versatile pattern with simple lines, allowing me to make decisions on the fly. Diane Ericson’s Heartfelt Coat to the rescue! This is the same pattern I used on my first ever blog post. That hand-pieced fabric had the same requirements of simplicity with options.
After making the basic shape I spent a day making sleeves and then taking them off and adding a simple band to finish the arm opening. Then I played around with a button/ large snap closure that was too heavy for the (mystery) textile. I removed the button and heavy snaps, and added lighter snaps.
Finally I explored collar options. This multi layered bias collar is also a Diane technique. I love having a good stash and the hand-dyed green organza was sitting on a shelf just waiting for the perfect project.
The fabric isn’t stable enough for the pockets I hoped for, so I still have a few scraps of fabric and the unused button. I plan on making a little matching purse in the next few weeks. I also have a lovely green knit slated for a pair of pants to coordinate with the vest.
Happy Valentines Day to all!
West Zen Studio 
Beautiful, I love this color combination. Perfect in every way .
Thanks Maryglenn!
Those green earrings were just waiting for that fabric. Love the vest, love the smile.
Thanks, I bo the earrings for the vest.😏
Fabulous! Perfect colors for you, too!
Gorgeous fabric, and the perfect pattern choice. The colors look terrific on you. Really nice!
Thanks for your compliments!
Dear Wendy, Looks like you are having a great time! Question: Can I use some of the great shots you took of your studio in my talk? I remember the one about your fireplace and chairs…and the one of the view with the sunset I think? If you are willing…send them my way, Big Hugs, Diane
WOW!!! That is one amazing fabric and I love how you’ve let it sing.
I wish you could see this fabric in person. It is special!
How flattering and colorful….is your “stash” still ahead of you…always remember Jills yard goods when she was quilting….which I think shes slowed…..since she works 7 days wk….do you miss your work? Julie just bo’t me 3 antique collars…Wow….Happy Valentines Day….assume Anna and Jim diddn’t spend it together! Love always. Mom
I have enough fabric for several years at the rate I’m sewing!
OMG!! Best yet!! That’s insane. You look great as always.
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It’ll look even better when I get green highlights next month.
Fabulous! You make me want to pull out my Heartfelt pattern and run to my machine!