Tuesday, September 2, 2008

And the Chanel Journey Continues...

Getting closer but I'm taking mine time with this. The jacket fits well, and I'm now working on finishing the interior. I took a break and made the trim- just couldn't wait, too exciting! Below are some more construction pictures as well as the trim. The facing needed extra care; I had to stay stitch the shoulder/collar seam in addition to fusing the cut point. If you're making a Chanel jacket for the first time, skip anything with facings. And as little plaid/match-up as possible. Unless, of course, you're like me, and just can't be truly happy without some serious challenges :-))

First up, the facing buttonholes...


... the lining seam construction (they are all done this way) and sleeve vent...


... the fringe...

... and finally the organza (which will be the ruffled trim)...


I ended up using silk organza as interfacing for the front/collar. It turned out to be just the right 'hold' without adding stiffness. Thank you Marji for all your help, and Lindsay, if you do go ahead with that jacket, make sure to turn to Marji if you get stuck.

And if you love Chanel, be sure to check mem's comment in the previous post; a priceless story about the woman who makes the Chanel trim. Thank you, mem!

8 comments:

  1. This is going to be a wonderful jacket. I want to make one too sometime, so I follow your progress.
    As to the story Mem told about, it's from a documentary series that was broadcasted some time ago. If you want to see this, you can find episodes at Youtube. Search for the title "Signe Chanel". I think this lady was in episode 3 or 4. I personally remember that getting in the hay when it was still dry, was more important than the Chanel trims when the film crew arrived. She made them at night I think.

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  2. This is going to be one hell of a jacket! I love the way it progresses and you're right, Marji is such a wealth of information and so generous in sharing it. Good luck, I cannot wait to see your jacket finished.

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  3. Birgitta - this jacket is going to be incredible. I love your fabric and all of the details. And that trim! Wow! I'm working on a jacket right now and haven't been able to decide what to do about trim. I am so anxious to follow your progress and I'll just have to make a trip down to see your finished garment!

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  4. C'est incroyable, mon amie! (French in the spirit of Mme Chanel, mais d'accord.) I'm so glad you are sharing your progress with this jacket.

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  5. Your jacket is going to be gorgeous. I can't wait to see the finished garment, your work is superb.

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  6. Oh my, I cannot wait to see the finished jacket! The trim is amazing.

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  7. I am enjoying watching the progress on your Chanel Jacket. I love how you made the trim. If you get a chance watch the Signe Chanel episode on teh Chanel trim maker. It is really interesting.

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  8. Birgitte, this is so totally impressive. I'm blown away by your trim, by your adding the ribbon...all of it.

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