My missing Mojo...and a fleece jacket!

So, I haven't been around much...life and apathy are interfering with my sewing and I feel like my mojo has gone for a trip but is ready to come home, know what I mean?

I've wanted to make a fleece jacket for quite a while and had two patterns, both equally cute, to choose from.

 

See what I mean?  I really like both of them so it was hard to finally decide on one and the winner was....Kwik Sew 3813!  I had to make it with the pockets on the front and the ability to color block!

 So here is a description from the back of the envelope: Slightly fitted jacket and vest have collar, front zipper with zipper shield, left breast welt pocket with zipper, front and back princess seams with lower front pockets in seams, back yoke, and casing with elastic at bottom edge.  Upper front, yoke, and collar have contrast fabric overlay...etc.

I made a medium and love the fit!  It is exactly what I wanted, for a fleece jacket, slightly fitted.  The fleece I used for this was from my stash and I am 99% certain I purchased it from Fabric Mart.  I had the zippers and lining in my stash so it was super easy to put together and even better to wear as it cost me less than $10!

With Kwik Sew instructions, they are usually very good and this time was no exception.  The directions are even in color!  Yahoo!  This was very helpful when stitching the welt pocket and even though I have made many welt pockets, I like having the pink stitching lines show up as a guide on the directions.

My only deviations from the pattern as written were to make my usual 1/2" swayback adjustment and use a silky print for the inside pocket lining at the left breast, right upper front and back yoke.  It made it less bulky to sew and gives a little unexpected surprise when you see it peeking out at the neckline area.  I had the zipper I used on the upper welt pocket and thought it would make a cute little design detail, so I left it exposed.

I love the idea of being able to put my cell phone there when I am out running so there's no need to worry about it bouncing out!  I also decided to eliminate the zipper shield but will try a version with it as I think it is a great idea!

The only thing to be aware of is that the seam allowances are only 1/4".  I always read patterns for SA if they are not obvious so I don't drastically alter the fit.

This is so comfortable!  I just love the yellow and blue one pictured above that I have to make it! Also, that is my Alma mater's colors--so it is a must do!

Casings for this are awesome--the sleeve and lower hem are strips that are sewn on, the elastic is inserted into an opening and then stitched shut.

I had zero difficulties with anything on this pattern!  I hope to make the cute little vest as well!

Thanks so much for reading!
Sue