Wow, tutorials for coats are hard to find–understandably so–but honestly after making a few I can say that really they are not as hard as you think they are. I think a wool kimono top–ooo, like this–lined in something soft would be a beautiful fall jacket and simple to make (here is a kimono pattern for 6m0-8yrs).  On the other hand, inspiring images of handmade coats are everywhere! Oliver + S has a beautiful pattern for a toggle coat with a removable lining called the school days jacket + coat. And really you can’t go wrong with Liesl’s patterns; they are timeless, but somehow modern too and cute as all get out.

amazing handmade coats, capes and sweaters

1. QTPI Hoodie, 2. Swallow Cape, 3. New Fleece Vest, 4. duffle coat, 5. Sweet Pea, 6. Olive Shirt Coat, 7. Vintage Simplicity 5536 pattern, 8. hoodies, 9. St. Chickn

awesome tutorials for coats, capes, vests, sweaters and a skirt

storybook cape and muff, reversible vest, flutter cape, jacket placket, reporposed sweater tutorial, the smartigan, draft your own coat, lengthen coat sleeves, reversible patchwork scribble skirt tutorial

I know the last one isn’t really a coat (well it’s kind of a coat for your bottom half), but I somehow forgot it yesterday and was kicking myself for it because it’s the perfect fall skirt for us to make and for kids to wear:  patchwork (I’m looking at you scrap basket about to take over the world), quilted, wrap around and reversible. Doesn’t get any better than that. So go over to Nan’s house and tell her just how much you love it.

It was actually chilly when I woke up this morning. The tomatoes are barely ripe and I can’t wait for the cold weather to get here.  I really can’t complain, it’s been a pleasant summer here in the midwest. It’s just not the season for me. I’ve been thinking about making a coat for winter, but I think it may be beyond my skills right now. So I just look at the lovely coats other people have made.

1. little red riding hood cape by ilikeyouworld
2. plum coat by LittleHouses
3. the peahoodie by Abigail Adams
4. mustard pea coat by stewwie

There are some really fantastic clothing shops on etsy.  A lot of these things are made just for you, with your measurements and all. This is couture for the masses! I love it. Do you know any good clothes makers (tailors? fashion designers?) on etsy?

Thanks for all your post office bag love. Who knew a strip of fabric with handles could be so exciting?