Aaargh. A day strapped int my corset so that I can keep trying this jacket on after each tweak…it had better be worth it.
I think [and several have commented] that there is a limit to how much I can fix, so it’s a good job I’m not a perfectionist!
[1] I have added a back stay, and reinforcement to the upper front of the jacket. I used an oddment of cotton corduroy, which was
[a] the right size
[b] a good weight
[c] to hand
I did this by just drawing a suitable-looking curve on the main pattern piece and cutting it out. I’ve basted it in for now, very roughly, as so much has to be undone again in any case. I will stitch it in more neatly when I do all the catch stitching of seam allowances.
[2] I re-stitched and pressed the left side seam, I think it looks better now, if not great.
[3] I’ve roughly pinned [for now] a little excess into one of the front darts, and slightly changed the overlap at CF.
[4] Finally, I’ve pinned a very small dart at each side of my bustline, to deal with that gap at the front armscye.
I think this will have to do.
I’m going to transfer the alterations to the lining and whizz that together, and make the changes to the darts.
Here are the pics at this stage, pre-sewing:
Will to live, currently zero.
Keep looking, keep advising, it’s much appreciated!
thedementedfairy 
Hmmmm I still think that underarm could use a bit of scooping. I hear that a few doses of chocolate is an excellent treatment for loss of the will to live! Maybe even throw in a brandy!
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Now that sounds like the kind of sewing plan I can live with! Yep. I’ll most likely take out just a fraction under the arms…but I’ll wait to see the knock on effect of the current changes first.
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You know, it’s just so inspiring to hear you fret about sewing instead of work!
Just keep everything in perspective and all will be well. Can you breathe with corset and jacket on?
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Yep, it’s fine, even though it looks so outrageous, it’s perfectly comfy.
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Don’t overthink it. (brandy helps here). Nothing in the first pic with the sleeves in was drastic enough to make non sewing people mutter behind their hands – or seamstresses either actually. Go for best possible and tuck a few notes in the pattern in case you ever get the urge to re-run it. The general shape of the jacket is great, that’s all anyone will take in.
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I’ll definitely be making this again, the style is very flattering, and I want to try the different necklines- possiby for my next project, the taffeta evening gown. Brandy really does help lol
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