The Butterick B5789 is a fast and easy pattern with 5 different views for a draped vest or jacket. It can be sewn sleeveless or with long sleeves.
I used the Butterick B5789 pattern to sew a winter jacket. Because I sewed it in the winter of 2018, I had a chance to wear it a few times. I chose view D which has a draped front and long sleeves. The fabric I chose was a heavyweight stretchy cotton. Because it was a heavyweight material, it kept me quite warm. I used a brooch to pin at the top to keep it closed rather than sewing a button. Truth is, I still need to learn how to sew a button and a button hole on a sewing machine.
The lesson that I learned from this sewing pattern is to follow the directions very carefully regarding what fabric material to use. I used a heavyweight cotton that did not drape very well. The pattern called for a lightweight two way jersey material.
This jacket can also be worn open which showcases it’s draped front. Because I chose a heavyweight stretchy cotton material, it did not look very good worn open. Now I understand why this pattern calls for a two way jersey material. Even though I used a heavyweight material rather than a lightweight material, the end result was not too bad and I was still able to wear it.
Being that I am fairly new at sewing (I’ve only been sewing for 3 years now), the biggest lesson that I learned from this sewing project is to use the correct fabric for the pattern. Especially for a beginner, this is important. I’ve learned this lesson many, many times. I sewed many nice dresses using the wrong fabric, which is really unfortunate because I could be wearing those dresses had I chosen the right fabric for the job. I know that learning to sew is all trial and error. Those errors are welcomed because it is helping me learn and grow in sewing.
All in all, this pattern was a simple pattern to use. It was labeled fast and easy and I agree with that. Now that I have learned my lesson on choosing the right fabric, I will plan to sew the sleeveless draped vest for the summer season using a lightweight two way jersey fabric. The sleeveless vest will make a great cover up to wear with a tank top or summer dress.
Adventures of Sweet Monday 