
This winter has dipped into what feels like record-cold and I wanted to make coats that would work for the kids. Nels’ is from a no-wale corduroy; Sophie’s, a pre-washed and dried wool flannel. Both are underlined in a wool blend and lined with a silk twill.
I’ve made many an Ottobre coat (off-hand examples 1, 2, 3, and 4, the latter of which is the same pattern as these two). I think I love making a coat almost as much as a baby bunting. It’s so structured and there’s so much work that goes into it that many people don’t see and can’t fathom. So I guess I’m actually a little sick in the head, when you think about it.
I also finished a couple hats to more or less match their outer gear:



I barely get time to take pictures of my creations. In fact, I probably only photograph about half of them. In the time I’ve been sewing the kids have loved the things I’ve made: usually whipping them on then dousing them with mud, peanut butter, and soy sauce. If only I could just sew, sew, sew and have someone else take pictures – because I’d love to keep a record. Oh also? Maybe someone else to raise the little buggers and cook for them and clean up after them every now and then.

You can see the detail shots of these creations at my Flickrstream.
Those are awesome! My mom made all our clothes, too. We used to sit in her sewing room and pin stuff for her while she worked. Sigh. The days of old.
Those coats are so well-made… I can’t even wrap my head around it. If only there were 7 of you (dude, Ralph would LOVE that) you’d have enough time and enough hands to sew sew sew.
Also, will you be my mom? I’d adore having clothes sewn for me, but lack the talent and ambition, myself.
they look fabulous! the clothes and the kids.
I would gladly take pictures of everything you make for you (though there is the whole distance thing). I don’t comprehend the actual work involved, but based on my very limited sewing experience + how absolutely amazing the things you make look I am always blown away when I see your creations.
We will be in Olympia tomorrow afternoon because Will may be buying a guitar down there, in case you have Olympia interests that could include coffee/food whatever.
Thank you for the compliment, ladies!
I need to sew for myself more. I am an expert at making my kids stuff – OK, not an “expert”, but pretty good – but I don’t sew for myself often enough. I have a bunch of theories about this but for the time being I can say it’s a situation I am painfully trying to remedy!
The last thing I sewed for myself I worked so hard on and it didn’t fit my bust right. However it did fit my mother very well and she loved it so much she bought me the silk twill for these coats. So I guess my lady-sewing is reaping SOME benefits.
Shelley, I’d love to see you in Olympia but I am stuck at home with a bunch of wet laundry, a broken dryer, and no car… so I’ll be dealing with that whole scene. Have a good time and tell Will *congrats* on getting a new guitar!