What Every Closet Needs: The New Pianoforte

…Love Notions Releases A New Jumper Pattern!

I’m SO excited to share my newest make from Love Notions~ the Pianoforte Jumper!! I was lucky to test this pattern and now I’m going to convince you that you NEED to make one too! I never thought I’d be 63 and wearing a jumper~ and loving it!! This is such a fun sew and I absolutely LOVE the pockets and their construction. It really was so much fun to sew!

The Pianoforte Jumper is on sale today 10/3/25 for just $6. This is the first time this pattern has been featured at this price!! You can use my code 10MACSEWS for an additional 10% off.

The Details

The Pianoforte is a loose fitting jumper that has a place in everyone’s wardrobe. Depending on fabric choice it’s perfect for the weekend or work!

  • Solid or Zippered Front
  • Deep inset pockets that you will LOVE!
  • Unique and easy pocket construction.
  • Burrito Roll Method for finishing armscyes.
  • Above Knee length
  • Meant for Layering
  • Princess Seams
  • Colorblocking Possibilities!
  • Perfect for Fall and Winter with tights or boots!
  • Skill Level: Confident Beginner to Intermediate. Beginners may have some difficulty with the Burrito Roll Method used to finish the armscyes and the zipper.

Sizing and Fit

The Pianforte Jumper is available in sizes XS-5X.  A Full Bust pattern piece is included (like all new and updated LN patterns). Choose your jumper size based upon your high bust measurement. If in-between sizes choose the smaller size. 

 If your full bust is more than 4″ larger than your high bust, use the included Full Bust Front pattern piece. Remember that if you use the full bust pattern pieces 2″ will be added to the Finished Measurements of the waist and hip. If your hips are larger than the size you are starting with you can always grade out for your fuller hip. Keep in mind if you use the Full Bust pieces you may NOT need to grade out at the waist/hips. Many times pear shaped sewists are tempted to start with their hip size.~ this isn’t recommended as the neckline and shoulders will be too large for you.

The Pianoforte is designed to have a loose fit. It is designed to hit a 2-3 inches above the knee on a 5’5″ woman.

*All Love Notions patterns are designed for the average 5′ 5″ woman.

Drafted Ease:

  • Bust- 2″
  • Waist- 10″- 11.5″
  • Hips- 4″-5.5″

*I have paired my Pianoforte with a waffle knit Sloane Sweater. (It is sized down one size so I can wear it as a layering piece). I’m wearing fleece lined tights I purchased on Amazon. I can’t believe how warm they are, yet they look like regular tights. They are available in so many colors! You can find them HERE.

My Sizing Alterations and Modifications

For my version of the Pianoforte Jumper I made an XL with the Full bust piece graded out to a 2X for my hips. This is exactly where my measurements fall on the sizing chart. My high bust is 40″ while my full bust is 45″.

I am only 5 feet tall, but I typically don’t shorten Love Notions patterns. My jumper is made in the designed length, so it may appear a tad longer on me.  

When I sew up my next Pianoforte (there will definitely be another one or two!) I will be making an adjustment to the strap length. I typically don’t have to make this adjustment when I sew, however when I moved around a bunch I found my strap wanted to slide over just a tad. I will probably shorten the straps about 1/2″-3/4″. The tutorial has excellent directions to help you make this adjustment if you need to. Most importantly, be sure to adjust all the pattern pieces, the front, side front, back and facings.

If you’re not sure you might need a strap adjustment, cut the pattern as is. After you have sewn the front and back together at the shoulders baste the side seams and then try it on before attaching the facing. If you don’t baste the side seams when trying it on, you won’t really be able to tell if the straps are too long. I know this is an added step ~ but in the long run a worthwhile one.

Fabrics and Notions

The Pianoforte is designed for medium to heavyweight woven fabrics. Fabrics such as corduroy, denim, and twill will all work. Wovens that are a tad more stable will give the best results.

Linen can be used, but it may give a slouchier look~ which would be really cute in the summer! If you have your heart set on a linen jumper~ look for a heavy weight linen. Essex Linen (by Robert Kaufman) is a cotton linen blend that would be perfect for this jumper! You can simply search Essex Linen and find many shops that sell it. Brussels Washer Linen, a blend of linen and rayon would also work, but will be a bit drapier.

A heavy weight flannel would also work well for this jumper! Look for Robert Kaufman Mammoth Flannel or any other that is listed as heavy weight.

A heavier stable knit will also work. Knits such a Ponte and double knit would make a really cute jumper. I’m tempted to try a quilted knit like the “diamond quilted” ones at Style Maker fabrics.

My next trip into the NYC Garment District I will be searching for a wool-specifically a houndstooth for another jumper. I’ll be sure to add photos when I find what I’m looking for.

Be sure to check out my fabric resource section at the end. I’ve linked to some great fabrics for the Pianoforte.

Notions

  • Thread
  • 24″ separating zipper, optional

I made my Pianoforte with a piece of vintage cotton corduroy that was in my mom’s stash. It’s been in a tote in my basement for years(decades actually). I’ve been waiting for the perfect pattern to sew this fabric up. I think it was the perfect time to pull out this fabric and sew it up. I know my Mom would have been so happy to see this fabric sewn into this cute jumper!

Sew Mary Mac’s Tips for Sewing the Pianoforte Jumper

  • If using a heavier/stiff fabric for your jumper, I highly recommend using a silky fabric for your facing. It will make turning right side out so much easier. Be sure to watch the video clip in the tutorial for the Burrito Roll Method.
  • If using a heavy/stuff fabric you may also want to make your pocket pieces from your lining fabric as well to reduce the bulk in the princess seams across the hips.
  • Step 14~ Baste the side seams first- then try on your jumper to make sure you are happy with the fit. When happy, then stitch/serge your side seams.
  • Press and steam the facing And pin before topstitching at Step # 15 . It is a tad time consuming, BUT ti helps to avoid ripples and bunching. Little things like this can make a big difference in our your finished project turns out. *See photo below.
  • Don’t skip the topstitching!! This stitching adds a nice professional look to your garment AND it helps to keep the facing from rolling to the outside.
  • Don’t skip the TIP in Step 14. I would do this after topstitching. Stitch in the ditch at the underarm side seam to keep the facings in place. At the Center Back, tack the facing to the seam allowance. *See photo below.

Thanks for stopping by! I truly appreciate all of you that visit!  If you enjoyed this blog post, consider subscribing to my blog to stay up to date with all my posts!  

Mary Anne 🙂

Remember to follow me over on Instagram to see all my latest makes!  @sewmarymac

You can also follow my Facebook Page~ Sew Mary Mac. On this page you will find information on my makes from all pattern companies. If I know of any good sales(pattern or fabric) I will also feature this information. I have had many of my loyal followers send me friend requests on Facebook. I do post in the Love Notions group under Mary Anne MacLean, however this Facebook account is private. There is no sewing content on that Facebook Account.


You can grab the Pianoforte Jumper pattern HERE.

This is an affiliate link. It costs you nothing to purchase from this link, it just helps fund my fabric addiction which allows me to test and review more patterns.

To receive an additional 10% off the pattern price, use this coupon code 10MACSEWS. This coupon code can be used at anytime on any pattern….even a $6 Feature Friday pattern.  My code does change quarterly, so please always check the newest blog post for an update if you find a code isn’t working. This code is good through 2025.


Fabric Shopping Resources~ Updated Fall 2025

RASPBERRY CREEK FABRICS

This is one of my favorite places to purchase fabric. I am a RCF Promo team member~ and I would not promo their fabric if I didn’t love the quality and service!!

Corduroy~ At this time there are 3 great colors of Robert Kaufman Corduroy in the shop. AS the weather gets cooler, be on the lookout for additional colors to be stockedfor Fall and Winter. This corduroy is perfect for the Pianoforte. Details: 14 wale, 100% cotton, 57″ wide, $7.95 per half yard. You can purchase this fabric here.

Linen and Linen Blends~

Brussels Washer Linen is a rayon/linen blend that would make a really cute relaxed Pianoforte. Details: 55% linen/45% rayon, 52″ wide, $6.99 per half yard. I plan to make one in the Spring. You can find this in 5 colors at RCF HERE. Brussels Washer Linen doesn’t wrinkle quite as much as 100% linen~ making it a great choice for the Pianoforte. You can also custom print on the Brussels Washer Line at RCF! I think the “Redrock” color way would be so perfect for Fall!

STYLE MAKER FABRICS

This shop can be a tad more expensive than others, however, you can order fabric in 1/8 yard increments. One thing with this shop is that you never have to worry about the quality of the fabrics you purchase from them. They will also match thread for you if you desire. This is a family owned business and shipping is really fast!! You can also order swatches for $1 or $2 with free shipping.

Classic Stretch Twill Denim~ Available in 4colors, Details: Cotton/Poly/Spandex, 20% stretch, 54″ wide, $18.99 per yard. You can buy this fabric HERE.

Lyocell Twill Bottom Weight~ Available in 3 beautiful Fall colors, Details: Lyocell Rayon, 56″ wide, $24.99 per yard. You can buy this fabric HERE

Japanese Cotton Oxford ~. Bottom Weight fabric, Available in 15 colors, Details: 100% cotton, 43″ wide, $14.99 per yard. You can find this fabric HERE.

Washed Crinkle Bottom Weight~. This is one of my favorite fabrics to sew up! Available in 13 colors, Details: 100% Organic cotton, 58″ wide, $24.99 per yard. This fabric is a staple at SM and they are always restocked.

Flannel~A nice heavyweight flannel would work really nicely for the Pianoforte. Then “Cozy Flannel” from Style Maker is nice and thick and the perfect weight for a jumper. $14.99 per yard. You can find them here.

Quilted Knit~ I am really contemplating making a Pianoforte out of this quilted knit fabric. I have made Oakley Vests of this knit and I really love them. I think it would totally work for a jumper too! How cute and comfy would this be!!! Details: Several pretty colors for Fall and Winter, cotton/poly blend, 57″ wide,$19.99- $24.99 per yard. Check them out HERE.

I have purchased the Berry Plush Cable Quilted Double Knit to make a cardigan~ the color is sooo pretty!

Surge Fabrics

Surge is a great family owed shop that always carried high quality fabrics. They have an amazing selection of stretch corduroy available in 2 different wales. What ever color you’re looking for~ they have it. Details: $16.99 per yard, 98% Cotton/2% Spandex, 58″/60″ wide, 20% horizontal stretch, 0% vertical stretch. You can see them all here!

Additional Shops to Check Out!

Cali Fabrics~ I have been LOVING Cali Fabrics lately! This is a great shop to get the staples you need. They have a great selection of corduroy, denim and twill. I highly suggest following them on Instagram or joining their Facebook page. Each week, Ron (one of the owners) does a video showing all the new fabrics that week. He does a great job of showing the drape of each fabric.

Corduroy

Denim and Twill

La Finch Fabrics~ gets deadstock fabric from the LA Fashion District. Sign up for emails as some fabrics arrive and sell out quickly. They recently had some printed floral corduroy. I was able to grab a piece of the crimson color way, but the navy had already sold out. This may have sold out so quickly due to her 30% off Anniversary sale. I highly suggest signing up for her emails and just buy when you first see something you want!!! My plans for what I did buy are undecided~ perhaps and Aria button down, a Clef Coat or many a Pianoforte. I really need to contemplate this one for a bit as it seems floral corduroy isn’t easy to find anymore!!!

LA Finch is also a great source for denim and twills.

Printed Corduroy

I have been searching for a printed corduroy like mine to give you some links. However, since mine is a vintage fabric, I’m not finding anything in the appropriate weight. Style Maker Fabrics had some printed corduroy last year, but it is a lighter weight option best used for dress or button-down shirts.

There are several shops on Etsy that sell printed corduroy, but I have not ordered from them. If they state they are “baby” corduroy they may be too light weight. If your corduroy is very light weight, it will creep up as you walk and you will always be tugging it down. EDIT: I did purchase some from an Etsy shop, and it was very nice quality, however too lightweight for a Pianoforte. I’ve added it to my stash and will be using it this year I’m sure.

If I find any~ I will be sure to update here!

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