Tag Archives: Sewing for Men

The Weekly Stitch With Sew Mary Mac~ November 7, 2025

…………..Welcome To My Sewing Room

Feature Friday Pattern From Love Notions~ It’s All About Comfy Bottoms!

For the Ladies, we have the Resolutions Bottoms on sale for just $6 today, 11/7/2025. PLUS~For the Kids and Men, we have the Thomas Track Pants also just $6 each today! Remember to use my code 10MACSEWS for your additional 10% off.

The Details~ Resolution Bottoms

The Resolution Bottoms pattern is exactly what you need this cozy season! It includes 5 different views which will work for just about anything! Lounging~ YUP, Working out~ YUP! Casual Shopping trip~ YUP! Whatever your resolution~ this pattern has you covered!!!

  • Sizes XS-5X
  • Designed for knit fabrics
  • 5 Styles
    • Plain Leggings
    • Moto Leggings
    • Boot Cut Yoga Pants
    • Straight Cut Yoga Pants
    • Joggers
  • Shaped Back Yoke for all Views
  • 2 Waistband Options~ Contoured with 3/8″ elastic OR yoga style
  • Pockets~ Side Seam Pockets for Joggers and Yoga pants/Hidden front pocket for leggins
  • 2 Pages of Fitting instructions
  • Skill Level~ Confident Beginners

Fabric

For the Jogger and Yoga Bottoms light to medium-weight knit fabrics with at least 25% 2-way stretch are required. Fabrics such as: French Terry, Ponte, cotton/lycra, jersey blends and double knit poly.

For the leggings medium weight fabrics with at least 50% 4-way stretch are required. Fabrics such as: Ponte, spandex and supple.

The Details~ Thomas Track Pants

These pants are perfect for active kids and grown-ups! Yet, they are also perfect for lounging when made in flannel or sweatshirt fleece! Make them for all the kids and men in your family for the holidays!! Links to patterns can be found below along with some fabric resources.

  • Kid Sizes 2T-14
  • Men’s Sizes XS-5X
  • Designed for wovens and stable knits * RCF sweatshirt fleece!!!
  • Solid and Color blocked options
  • Lined option
  • Optional Zipper Hem
  • Side Seam Pockets
  • Elastic Waist
  • Two how-to video clips
  • Skill Level~
    • View A~ Beginner
    • View B ~Confident Beginner
    • Zipper Hem~ Intermediate

What I Wore Last Week~

I’m still pulling me made items from the back of my closet as I switch my warm weather clothes with my warmer clothes. The last 3 items listed/shown are old makes~ which I’ve decided to hold on to. They fit me a bit closer than the pattern intends, but I will continue to wear them.

  • New LN Opus Vest in a baby wale corduroy
    • LN Rockford Raglan in a rib knit
  • LN Aria Button-down in Cozy Flannel from Style Maker Fabrics
    • LN Classic Tee/La Bella Donna mashup in a triblend knit
  • LN Constellation in a Sweatshirt Fleece from Raspberry Creek Fabrics
  • LN Sloane Sweater with Hood in a Cable Sweater Knit (2021?)
    • Note~ this is a size smaller than what I measure now
  • LN Terra Tunic in Sweatshirt Fleece from Raspberry Creek Fabric
  • LN Whistler Top in a Cotton French Terry, with reverse side used for the collar.
    • Note~ this is a size smaller than what I measure now

What I’m Sewing This Week~

This week I’m finishing up my new Sloane Sweaters. I made a wearable muslin of the Sloane since it had been a few years since I had sewn up View A. View A is a slimmer fit than View B. (I’ve sewn plenty of the View B as sweatshirts) The pattern I had traced out was an XL with FBA graded out to a 2X. Lately I have been sewing a 2X graded to a 3X on newer patterns I’ve been making. Going by the fit of the purple knit version seen above, I kept the XL in the shoulder and neckline area (as my Upper bust measurement in just below the 2X). I graded to the 2X for the sleeve and side seams. I’m was happy with my “test” version and I moved on to sewing the ones from my Fall Plans list.

To see my full collection of Sloane Sweaters you can visit this blog post. These are mostly older versions as I had kinda stepped away from this pattern for a bit. I will eventually update this blog post with photos of my newer version.

I’ve been outside quite a bit taking advantage of the milder weather so I haven’t gotten as much done as I planned. I love riding my bike and I’m trying to get as many rides in before it just gets too cold!

My Fall Sewing Plans~

I’ve really stuck to my Fall sewing plan list! I’m really really really trying hard not to add anything. Clearly I won’t finish this list before Fall is officially over~ but I will continue to work on this into the winter. Come late January/February I like to begin spring sewing anyway.

  • LN Aria Button-downs~ COMPLETE!
    • Corduroy ~Woodland print that I purchased last fall from Style Maker Fabrics
    • Sweatshirt fleece, pink plaid that I ordered from RCF 
    • Jacket hack in Navy linen~ just received from Mood Fabrics~
      • I’m going to push this ahead to my Spring Sewing Plans list
  • LN Timbre Top long sleeved button front version. ~COMPLETE!!
    • Block print cotton voile ~has in stash from Blackbird Fabrics.
    • Perhaps a Rayon challis version? Found perfect rayon challis in my deep stash (10 yrs old?)
    • Bonus Sew~ Green Double Gauze from last big Joann Fabrics haul
  • LN Constellation Pullovers
    • Navy Speckle Sweatshirt Fleece~ in stash from Style Maker Fabrics
    • Oatmeal and Fuchsia floral sweatshirt fleece~ in stash from Style Maker Fabrics
  • LN Clef Coat
    • Gray Sweatshirt fleece~ in stash from ????
    • Navy Boucle purchased a few years ago from Style Maker Fabrics
  • LN Oakley Vest
    • Quilted Sweater knit from stash~ from Style Maker Fabrics(2023 & 2024)
    • Purple quilted fabric ~Style Maker Fabrics from last year
    • Fleece~ from Joann’s fabrics that I purchased just before liquidation
  • LN Coda Coat ~ADDED 10/4
    • Quilted Jacket~ will be shopping at Home Goods to find a new quilt to cut up.
      • No luck at Home Goods~ I’m now looking at block print bed quilts on Amazon!
      • Update!!!! I found a quilt at Home Sense in the clearance section! A Draper James quit for just $30!
  • LN Sloane Sweater~ ADDED 10/20
    • Wearable muslin of the Sloane~ since I needed to make a few size adjustments Done
    • Rose Floral Reverse French Terry (Style Maker Fabrics 2024) Done
    • Teal Striped Ribbed Sweater Knit (Style Maker Fabrics 2024)Will be done by Sunday!
    • Houndstooth Hacci Sweater Knit ~ Promo for Raspberry Creek Fabrics

Thanks for reading “The Weekly Stitch”! I’m so happy you took the time to “visit” my sewing room!

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.

Pattern Links

Love Notions Patterns

The Love Notions links are affiliate links. It costs you nothing to purchase from these links, it just helps fund my fabric addiction which allows me to test and review more patterns.

To receive an additional 10% off the LN 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 will be good through the end of 2025.

Blog Post Links~ These will give you more details on each pattern, my sizing and alterations along with sewing tips for each specific pattern.

Fabric Resources

For the Resolution Bottoms

The first place I would shop for fabric for the Resolutions would be Surge Fabrics. They have a great selection of activewear fabrics. You can find them HERE.

For the Thomas Track Pants

Raspberry Creek Sweatshirt Fleece~ this fabric is perfect for the Thomas Track Pants! Warm and snuggly and stable enough to sew up nicely in this pattern!

I find this fabric so warm and cozy yet not as heavy or bulky as some sweatshirt fleece. It has a slight heathered appearance due to the rayon content which just adds to its appeal. There are so many color coordinated options in the shop right now. (And you can also print custom designs on it as well!)

Fabric Details: Medium Weight 10-11 OZ, 72% Poly/25% Rayon/3%Spandex, 58//60″ Wide 

Let’s Go To Band Camp!

…Love Notions Camp Style Shirt Patterns For Ladies and Men!

***EDITED 9/2025 with additional photos and information on fabrics and drape!

I am sooooo excited about this pattern from Love Notions! I was lucky to be able to test both the Ladies and Men’s versions of the Band Camp Shirt. It’s a great pattern to sew up for the end of summer yet takes you through the transition into cooler weather and beyond! I know I say this quite often but, you really NEED this pattern! It was a very satisfying sew, and much simpler to make than a traditional collared shirt due to its attached facing construction. So if you’ve been afraid to sew up a collared shirt, this is a pattern for YOU! I see a set of matching or coordinating shirts in our future!

Both the Ladies and Men’s Band Camp Shirt patterns are the Feature Friday $6 pattern today, 9/26/2025 . Regular price is $12.50. You can use my code 10MARYMAC for an additional 10% off.

What Exactly Is A Camp Shirt?

A camp collar shirt is a short-sleeve, button-down shirt that is characterized by its open, unstructured, lay-flat collar (called a camp collar) that creates a lower-cut v-neck; this relaxed collar is part of what distinguishes it from a short-sleeve dress shirt which buttons up higher and sports a stand-up collar.

Band Camp Shirt with a Caprice Skirt and Boyfriend Cardigan hack for a vest

Ladies Band Camp Shirt

The Details

The Ladies Band Camp shirt is a collared button down shirt. It has a simplified collar construction with the facing attached to the front. It is constructed much like the Melody Dolman~ the main difference is that the Band Camp shirt has a set in sleeve. The Band Camp makes a great staple for your wardrobe. Sewn with different options and a variety of fabrics, you can achieve many different looks!

  • Three Sleeve Options: Sleeveless, Short Sleeved with cuff, Long sleeves
  • Two back Options: Plain or Yoked
  • Two Pocket Options: Plain and Cargo Pocket with (or without) flap
  • Optional Roll Up Tabs for long and short sleeves
  • Split Hem
  • Bust Dart Only for Full Bust Sizing
  • Endless Combinations To Create by mixing and matching all the options!
  • Quick Sew
  • Skill Level: Confident Beginner to Intermediate, the buttonholes may be challenging if you haven’t made them before.

Sizing and Fit

The Ladies Band Camp Shirt is available in sizes XS-5X.  A Full Bust pattern piece is included (like all new and updated LN patterns). Choose your shirt 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.

The Band Camp Shirt is designed to have a relaxed boxy fit. It is meant to hit at the high hip on the average 5’5″ woman.

The blue leaf print shirt above is made from a textured rayon blend shirting. This fabric has a crisp hand and a bit “stiffer” drape. Your fabric choice will play a big role in the way your Band Camp shirt looks when wore. This fabric was from my Style Maker Fabrics stash.

My Sizing Alterations and Modifications

For all my versions of the Bank Camp Shirt 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. All of my versions are made in the designed length, so they may appear a tad longer on me.

The Band Camp Shirt below is made from a rayon linen blend. You can see how this version fits differently since the fabric has much more drape than my other versions. I think if I make another version is rayon, I may size down through the shoulders. This fabric is from Kashi at Metro Textiles in the NYC Garment District. You can purchase this fabric here.

Men’s Band Camp Shirt

The Details

What exactly is a CampShirt? A camp shirt, also known as a cabin shirt, Cuban collar shirt, cabana shirt, and lounge shirt, is a loose, straight-cut, woven, short-sleeved button-front shirt with a simple placket. Well the Band Camp Shirt is all that and much more! Look at all the options!

  • Two Front Options: Plain or Colorblocked
  • Two Back Options: Plain or Yoke with Pleat
  • Two Sleeve Options: Short with Cuff or Long
  • Optional Tabs for both Long or Short Sleeve
  • Two Pocket Options: Plain or Cargo with Flap
  • Split Hem
  • Endless Combinations to Make by Combining Options Differently!
  • Skill Level: Confident Beginner to Intermediate

Note: The Colorblocking option can create so many different looks. You can choose just the side panels like I did, or opt for the front panels and color. The combinations are endless! Be sure to check out all the tester photos on the pattern listing and on the Facebook Group.

Sizing and Fit

The Men’s Band Camp Shirt is available in sizes XS to 5X. Choose your size based on the chest measurement. If between sizes, choose the smaller size. As always, check the finished garment measurements chart to help you. Using the chest measurement to select your size helps to get a good fit at the neck and shoulders. If needed, grade out for a larger waist or hips.

The Men’s Band Camp Shirt, like the Ladies, is designed to have a relaxed boxier fit It is drafted for the average 5’8″ man. It is meant to hit between the high and full hip. 

Sizing For Mr. Sew Mary Mac

 I made a size Large for my husband. His chest measures 43″ which falls exactly in a size L. His waist is 37″ and his hips are just 38″. His hips are smaller than a size Large, but I did not grade smaller for him. My husband is 5’8″~ so I did not take make any changes to the length of the body of the shirt. If I make him another one (which I most likely will), I may shorten the sleeve just a tad which is just a personal preference of his.

Mr. Sew Mary Mac AKA ~ Bill’s shirt was made from 100% linen. I let him pick his fabric from my linen stash. You can see that this makes a shirt that is crisp and boxy. This linen was from my favorite source for linen, Grayline Linens in the Garment District in NYC.

Fabrics and Notions (Ladies and Mens)

The Band Camp Shirts are designed for woven fabrics. Light to medium weight apparel woven such as linen, chambray, rayon and shirtings. More specifically fabrics such as these would all work perfectly:

  • Double gauze
  • Seersucker
  • Rayon challis (will result in a drapier look)
  • Rayon Crepe
  • Rayon crinkle(will result in a drapier look)
  • Cotton or rayon poplin
  • Cotton or rayon voile
  • Lightweight linens
  • Madras plaid
  • Lightweight twill
  • Quilter’s Cotton ( will result in a very boxy look)

Notions

  • Thread
  • Light-weight fusible interfacing
  • 6-10 buttons depending upon View you choose to sew.

Fabric and Drape

Depending on what fabric you choose, the Band Camp shirt can have a very different look. Different fabrics have different amounts of drape thus affecting the look of the shirt. Many different fabrics work for the Band Camp shirt~ they will just give you a different look. I’ve yet to make one in Rayon Challis (most drape of all) and I do plan on making one one of this days! (I’ll add photos when I do!)

What is drape? Drape is how a fabric falls, folds and hangs when made into a garment.  Different fabrics will have different degrees of drape ranging from fluid and flowing to stiff and structured.

Drape influences the overall look of a garment.  The fiber content, weave structure and fabric weight all play a part in how a fabric drapes.The drape of a fabric can affect the overall silhouette of the intended design.

Fabrics with more drape such as rayons, poly and/or rayon crepes and some rayon/linen blends will give the band camp a softer more flowy fit and look a tad dressier. My stretch crepe and rayon linen versions below show this.

Fabrics with less drape, such as cotton voile, and double gauze will give the Band Camp a boxier look. See the pink gauze and cotton voile versions below.

And lastly, fabric with very little drape, or fabrics that drape away from the body such a midweight linens and cottons will look even more structured. See my linen and cotton versions below. I feel these Band Camp shirts looks best worn untucked. Notice how the shirt slightly stands out from the bust down on me. This is because these fabrics don’t have as much drape. (This in fact makes this fabric a great choice for hot and humid weather!)

Want to read more about drape? I did an experiment with drape and the LN Timbre Top for a blog post on the Raspberry Creek Fabrics blog. You can read that blog post HERE.

Sew Mary Mac’s Tips For Sewing the Band Camp Shirt

  • Be sure to transfer ALL makings on the neckline and collar pieces accurately. These are important to construct the collar and facing correctly.
  • Do NOT skip the staying stitching on the curved neckline edges. I like to do this step immediately after cutting out my fabric. The more cut fabric pieces are handled, the more likely they will stretch and distort. If this happens you collar may not fit properly. This is especially important with this type of collar/facing construction.
  • When sewing the shirt fronts to the shirt back, be sure to press the shoulder seams towards the FRONT( not to the back like you typically would do).
  • Finish the sides seams of the front and back BEFORE sewing them together.
  • When sewing any type of shirt with cuffs, I prefer to construct the sleeve completely before attaching the sleeve to the garment. It is much easier to handle this way.
  • *For the Sleeveless version: Try your shirt on before attaching the bias tape. Check the underarm to make sure it will cover your undergarments. I often take in the side seam right at the underarm. Make any adjustments before attaching the bias tape.
  • If sewing the Band Camp Shirt is a lighter weight fabric such as rayon challis, interface both collar pieces.
  • Remember that the button/buttonhole placement guide is that~ just a guide. I always try on my shirt first, and mark where I want the button at the bustline and then work up and down from that point. This helps to prevent gaping at the bust.

Below are photos of my very first tester version. There were a few changes made to the pattern, but I still love this and wear this one. This is made from a cotton poplin I had printed at Raspberry Creek Fabrics. I think this fabric is PERFECT for this pattern! Changes made during testing were to trim down the armsyce and lower the bust dart (on the full bust version). I know I will make several more sleeveless versions next summer!

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 Ladies Band Camp Shirt HERE.

You can grab the Men’s Band Camp Shirt HERE.

These are an affiliate links. 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 10MARYMAC 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. My code will be changing October 1, 2025.

The Clef Coat Collection: The Men’s Bass Clef Coat Arrives

…A New Pattern Release from Love Notions

*The Bass Clef and Treble Clef (for Kids) Coat pattern will both be on release pricing from Tuesday, 3/5/24 through Monday, 3/11/24. They will be $9.50 and $7.50 respectively. Be sure to use code 10MARYMAC for an extra 10% off. Regular prices are $12.50 and $10.50.

I am so excited about the release of the new Bass Clef Coat pattern! I tested both the Woman’s Clef Coat and the Men’s Bass Clef Coat and let me tell you~ I am a BIG fan! (I’m sure the Kid’s Treble Clef is awesome too!) This coat is truly a pleasure to sew. It’s satisfying and quick~ what more could you ask for! Oh and the final result is pretty awesome too! I see many more Clefs in my future~ both for me and my husband. Don’t typically sew for the “men” in your life? This is the perfect pattern to change that.

The Details

The Bass Clef Coat is a relaxed fit, yet classic coat that can take on totally different looks depending on the options that you choose. It can be casual or dressy~ the choice is yours! And there are a lot of options!

  • Can be made with wovens or knits!
  • Stand Collar or Hood Options
  • Zipper or Button/Snap Placket Options
  • Optional Welt Chest Pocket
  • Front Kangaroo Pockets
  • Drawstring or Elastic Waistline
  • Endless Combinations!
  • Skill Level~ Confident Beginner, only the zipper and buttonholes/snaps may be a bit challenging.

Sizing and Fit

The Bass Clef is available in sizes XS-5X. Choose your size based on the chest measurement. If between sizes, choose the smaller size. As always, check the finished garment measurements chart to help you.

The Bass Clef is drafted for the average 5’8″ man. It is meant to hit at the full hip. It is designed to have a relaxed and roomy fit. If your “man” prefers a more fitted coat, you can always size down. Again, be sure to check the finished garment measurement chart to determine if you will have enough ease.

Something to remember about this pattern is that fabric choice can really make a difference in how the coat fits. A thicker fabric is going to fit closer than a lightweight fabric. Make sure you take that into account when choosing your size.

Bill’s Sizing

I made a size Large for my husband. His chest measures 43″ which falls exactly in a size L. His waist is 37″ and his hips are just 38″. His hips are smaller than a size Large, but I did not grade smaller for him. I did however use a smaller length of elastic for the hem than recommended for the size Large. This pulled the bottom in just a tad more so it fit him better. The Large recommends 45″ elastic and I used just 43″.

My husband is 5’8″~ so I did not take make any changes to the length of the body of the coat. I did shorten the sleeves 1 1/2″, which is a typical adjustment that I make for him. The wrist elastic calls for 11″ for the size Large, I used just 10″. This is just a guide and can be changed for personal preferences.

I chose to use 3/4″ wide elastic for both the wrists and hem. This is a personal preference as well.

Modifications I Made

French Seams

I chose to sew French seams on the side seams and the sleeve seam. Since I don’t sew very often for my husband, I wanted to make this extra special and give the inside a cleaner look. In order to sew French seams, I needed to increase the seam allowance to 1/2″ instead of 3/8″. To do this I simply added 1/8″ to the side seams of the front and back pattern pieces as well as the sleeve seam. Choosing to sew these seams as French seams meant that I would be sewing the side seams before inserting the sleeve. The sleeve will then be inserted “in the round” after the side seams are sewn.

How to Sew a French Seam

  • Pin front and back together at the side seams Wrong Sides Together.
  • Stitch a 1/4″ seam
  • Trim seam to 1/8″
  • Press seam allowance to one side
  • Turn coat wrong side out, press seam really well.
  • Pin the side seams Right Sides Together.
  • Stitch a 1/4″ seam
  • Press seams well again.
  • Repeat this process for each sleeve.
First step~ pins wrong sides together
Finished French Seam
Finished inside of Bass Clef

Interfacing

The Bass Clef Coat does not require interfacing in the collar. I have worked with this Washed Corduroy before and I know that it is very soft and has a bit of a drape to it. I knew that I would want it to have a bit more structure. I used a lightweight knit tricot interfacing on the collar and it worked out very well. When zipped all the way up, the collar does not flop.

Pocket Edge Finish

  • Page 12, Step 1~ finishing the slanted edge of the pockets
  • Instead of finishing with a serger, I chose to use bias tape.
  • The bias tape added stability to the pocket edge so it would not be “droopy”.
  • After applying the bias tape, I finished the top, short side and bottom of the pocket with my serger.
  • Again, I knew this would be best for my fabric. If your fabric has more structure you wouldn’t need to do this, however it does give it a very professional look.
  • See below if you need more details on how to do this.
Finishing slant edge of pocket
with bias tape
Inside of kangaroo pocket
Bottom of coat~ elastic hem casing finished with bias tape.
Bottom hem and elastic hem of the Bass Clef

Hem Finishing

Page 23, Step 1 instructs you finish the raw of the hem with a serger, overcast stitch, bias tape or by turning under 1/4″. I finished mine with bias tape, and I feel it was just one more way to elevate this coat. It only took a few minutes extra to do this and I think it was well worth it! This method really gives you a nice clean professional look.

To Apply bias tape to the raw edge:

  • Open one side of the bias tape.
  • Align the raw edge of the bias tape with the raw edge of the hem. Be sure you place the right side of the bias tape to the wrong side of the hem edge.
  • Stitch bias tape to the hem along the crease in the tape.
  • Fold the tape over the raw edge of the fabric to the right side
  • Topstitch in place.
  • Your raw edge will now be encased in the bias tape.

Fabrics and Notions

The Bass Clef is designed for light to medium weight woven or stable knit fabrics. Wovens such as twill, canvas, denim, wool, flannel and corduroy would all be great choices. Stable knits such a Ponte, double knits, fleece, sweatshirt fleece and cotton French Terry would also work.

If you have a knit that doesn’t have enough stretch for other garments~ this would be a perfect pattern to use it for. If choosing a lighter weight knit with more stretch, it may be best to size down.

For the tester version of the Clef, I used a fleece from my stash. I omitted the welt pocket for a quick fit test. This fleece sewed up perfectly for this pattern!

For the final version, I used a washed corduroy. This fabric is not as stiff as many corduroys so I did make a few changes as mentioned above for this fabric.

Remember the fabric you choose to use can and will change the look of your Bass Clef drastically. The best recommendation I can make is to look at all the tester versions and see what fabric they used. Sometimes this is the best way to determine how your fabric might work for a pattern. 

This is the totally wearable fit test version made from fleece.

Notions

  • All Views: thread, 1/2 yard of 3/8″-3/4″ elastic (for sleeves)

  • Optional: Interfacing and bias tape

Other Notions will vary depending on what features you have chosen for your Bass Clef.

  • Button Option: 3/8″- 3/4″ buttons or snaps (6 for the collar version, 5 for the hooded version)
  • Zipper Option: 28″ separating zipper (longer zippers can be shortened)
  • Elastic Hem: 2 yards of 3/8″ -3/4″ wide elastic
  • Drawstring Hem: 2 yards drawstring, 2 grommets, cord stoppers/locks (optional)
  • Hood: drawstring, 2 grommets, cord stoppers/locks(optional)

Here are our “coordinating” Clef Coats. Both are made from fleece.

It was super cold at the lake behind our house this day, but our Clefs were snuggly!

Tips For Sewing The Bass Clef Coat

  • Staystitch the neckline edge (both knits and wovens)
  • Make a practice welt pocket before cutting into the front of your coat. 
  • Fray check the inside edges of the welt inside. Be careful to not let it soak through to the front.
  • For a really quick sew, omit the welt pocket! However, let me say it really does elevate the look of your coat and the directions are awesome!
  • If sewing with a fabric that frays, finish all sides of the kangaroo pockets before attaching to the front. After Step 1 before moving on to Step 2.
  • Finish the center front edges of both front pieces before attaching the zipper.
  • Another way to elevate your Bass Clef is to finish the neckline/collar/hood seam with bias or twill tape. I did this on both of my versions. (You can also see I used contrasting bias tape on my 2 Clef Coats below.)

More details on the Women’s Clef Coat can be found below, along with more information on these 2 versions. CLICK HERE

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 Men’s Bass Clef Coat pattern HERE.

You can grab the Kid’s Treble Clef Coat pattern HERE.

These are affiliate links. It costs you nothing to purchase from these links, 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 10MARYMAC.This coupon code can be used at anytime on any pattern….even a $5 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.

Fabric Resources

My husband’s wearable muslin was made from fleece I had in my stash. I’m going to guess that is from Joann Fabrics from a few years ago. My color blocked Clef Coat was made up from various scraps of fleece I found when cleaning out my sewing closet. These scraps too were most likely from Joann Fabrics.

The Washed Corduroy was purchased from Stylemaker Fabrics. It is available in a few different colors. This Bass Clef Coat is made in the “Redwood” color way. It is so soft and comfortable. I used this fabric in the “Sea Glass” color way to make an Aria button-down for myself earlier. My husband always said how much he loved this shirt every time I wore it, so I figured I would buy some for his new coat.

You can find the Washed Corduroy HERE. Below is a picture of my Love Notions Aria button-down in this fabric.

It’s Time to Tailgate!

New Release from Love Notions for Men (and the Sideline for Boys too!)

The Tailgate Sweatshirt and Hoodie has just been released along with the Sideline Sweatshirt for Boys. I wasn’t an official tester for this pattern, but as a Love Notions Ambassador I did get an advanced copy of the pattern. So I decided to quickly sew up a Tailgate for my husband (who sadly doesn’t get many me-mades). I was promptly “”informed” at I need to sew a few more of these. I guess that means I “need” to go fabric shopping!!

The Tailgate and Sideline will both be on release pricing until Monday, 10/23/2023. The Tailgate is just $9.50 and the Sideline is just $7.50. Remember to use my code LOVEMARY10 for an additional 10% off.

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