MELTON WOOL COAT | BUTTERICK 6720
Baby it’s cold outside! I’ve been waiting to type those words. Hahaha! But seriously, it’s cold. Today’s forecast in my town was a low of 32 degrees and a high of 62. I know those of you who live in really cold climates are laughing at me right now. But I’m gonna keep sitting on this sofa with the thermostat on high, wrapped in a cozy blanket until I leave to meet a friend from church for dinner this evening. THEN, I get to wear my new Melton Wool Coat. Ooohhh, I’m so happy to add this piece to my winter wardrobe.
I only have two coats and one jacket in my wardrobe. When I donated most of my clothes and started rebuilding my wardrobe from scratch, I got rid of all other coats/jackets. I kept the Red Peacoat I made in 2016 and the Kelly Anorak I made in 2017, because I still love them both. I’ve already purchased fabric to sew my next coat and I’m pretty excited.
Pattern Information
BUTTERICK 6720 is a fully lined, loose fitting jacket and coat with front extending into a collar; front pockets with bands; two-piece sleeves and self fabric belt. View A has a contrast lower sleeve. View B has a decorative button trim, and View C has topstitching on the pocket band and lower sleeve. I sewed View B without the contrast sleeve bottom.
The pattern is available in both Paper & PDF, ranging in size from Small – XXL. It is rated as AVERAGE (Intermediate) by the company and I agree. I found the pattern instructions to be very straight forward and simple to follow (as an ADVANCED level sewist).
Fabric Information
The pattern calls for Wool Blends; Tweed, Gabardine, Poplin and Mohair. The contrast on View A suggests Faux Fur, Velveteen, Satin and Brocade. You will also need lining fabrics. I used this beautiful Melton Wool Blend that I received from Core Fabrics as part of our monthly collaboration. They send fabrics and supplies that I choose for my projects. My community receives a 15% discount on all non-sale items on their website by using my code 15*ANITA. I receive a commission on all qualifying sales. All opinions about the fabrics are my own.
This is my first time using Melton Wool and I was a little curious about the pre-treating process. I made sure to do my research and learn how to pre-shrink the fabric before it arrived. There are a few ways to handle this task, including placing the fabric in the dryer with a damp towel; hovering the iron over the fabric and steaming it; or using a steamer. I figured since it’s an oversized coat, I didn’t need to be too sensitive about pre-treating. Therefore, I used the iron for steaming the fabric, but only lightly. I have another piece of wool for my next coat that absolutely must be pre-treated carefully because the coat is more fitted. I plan to use the dryer method or take it to the cleaners for steaming.
Inside the Garment
I used my Baby Lock Chorus to sew all the seams on the coat and Baby Lock Soprano for the lining. I didn’t want to go back and forth with changing threads, so having two machines was a big help. My Vibrant Serger helped to clean up raw edges to prevent fraying on some of the seams, even though the coat is fully lined. Here are some photos of the inside of the coat
Notions
It is suggested that you use one pair of 1/2″ shoulder pads for all three Views. View B calls for eight 1 1/8″ buttons. I omitted the buttons from my coat. I only had 1/4″ shoulder pads and my local Hobby Lobby didn’t have 1/2″ pads. I serged two 1/4″ pads together to create a 1/2″ pad. The finished measurement was actually 3/4″ but it worked. The only thing I noticed with the fabric choice is that the outline of the shoulder pads show a bit. It’s not a deal breaker though.
Alterations Information
Before sewing the coat, I went to Pattern Review to see what others who have already sewn the coat had to say. Several people mentioned that the shoulders are wide and extend past the drop-off point. Therefore, I sewed up a muslin to test the fit for my shoulders. Sure enough, the shoulders were too wide. I cut off about 1/2″ from the Side Front & Back (Pieces 2 & 5) at the edge of the shoulder and blended down into the armhole. Since I made that change to the shoulder, I also cut away 1/2″ from the top of the sleeve head to prevent gathering of the fabric at that point.
My lining came up short and doesn’t cover the hemmed edge of the coat in the back. That happened because I used a shorter hem on the coat than recommended. However, I forgot to use a shorter hem on the lining. I left it as is because I didn’t want to take apart the facing to re-do the hem.
The pattern didn’t include belt carriers but I added them because I like to keep the belt attached to the coat. I simply cut a strip of fabric about three inches wide and maybe twelve inches long. Folding the strip in half, I sewed at 3/8″ seam, pressed it flat, turned it right side out. I tied the belt around my coat on my body to measure where I wanted to place the carriers. Using straight pins as placeholders, I cut the carriers to size, leaving enough room for folding and a bit of slack so that the holders are not too tight on the belt. Finally, I sewed the carriers in place.
Styling Options
I wanted a monochromatic look, so I made a turtle neck top using the True Bias Nikko Top Pattern. I paired it with an Organic Cotton Spandex Jersey from Core Fabrics. The pants and matching belt were made earlier this year with Vogue 9302 and a 100% Midweight European Linen, also from Core Fabrics. Here is a look at those two pieces first, styled with a pair of beige pumps, pearl/silver necklace, blue/white striped handbag, and rhinestone stud earrings.
Adding the coat made it all the more beautiful. I love all three pieces together. The coat is a nice heavy weight and will keep me really warm. The wool fabric and lining combined make it perfect for winter weather. I think this looks so classy all dressed up.
I love that this coat/jacket is versatile, so I dressed it more casually with a pair of jeans (Levi’s), tall boots (Dilliard’s), belt (Kohl’s), crossbody bag (Macy’s) and simple jewelry. This outfit is ready for all the things; shopping, errands, lunch dates, girlfriends hangout, and whatever else. The comfort is what I love most.
Finally, I styled the coat with my True Bias Nikko Dress and matching belt that I made with a Cable Sweater Knit Fabric that I purchased from JoAnn’s years ago. The matching suede shoes (Macy’s), purse (Aldo), and DIY belt really elevate the dress. This is a great look for a dinner date or church. I would keep the coat on at church with this dress though. I don’t like wearing form fitting garments to church without coverups.
What do you think?
I would love to hear your feedback. Scroll to the very bottom of this page to leave a comment.
Thank you for stopping by today! 💕
Other Related Links
- Sewing Project Checklist
- Learn to SEW Course
- Baby Lock Soprano
- Baby Lock Vibrant
- Baby Lock Euphoria
- Baby Lock Chorus
(DISCLAIMER: This blog post may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission on qualifying purchases. All opinions in this post are my own.).)
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This Post Has 60 Comments
Oh my that is a lovely jacket.
Fabulous! please we need a sewalong for the coat.
Gorgeous! I love every styling choice, beautiful make!
Beautiful job, Anita. Those broad lapels just beg for a nice pin, and your pearl pin suits it nicely. (A Christmas pin will look great in season, too.) You did your usual perfect sewing job, and I really like the lighter contrasting lining material. I also love your more tailored red peacoat that you showed — I sewed a similar peacoat in navy when I was in college many years ago — those classic lines never go out of style, do they? Enjoy your beautiful new coat and wear it in good health! Thanks for sharing it with us.
Thank you so much, Susan! Yes, I love classic pieces that never go out of style.
Oh, Anita, You nailed it with this coat, love the color, the way You look, it’s amazing. Its beautiful as all You do. God bless,keep up the good work. Happy holidays.
Thank you so much, Rosa! God bless you too and Happy Holidays.
Hi Anita… I just loved this coat pattern and how you styled it!! It looks amazing 🤩. Yesterday I tried to use your discount code at Core Fabrics and it wouldn’t accept it. I contacted Core Fabrics and they said it was an outdated code…I was hoping to buy the same fabric as your in the robin’s egg blue…is there a way for you to help ?
Karen
Hi Karen! I am so sorry about that. I’ve sent out a message to the team to get the updated code. I’ll correct it as soon as they get back to me.
Thank you Anita. Looking forward to making this after the holidays😁
You’re welcome, Karen! Have fun making your coat. I’m waiting to hear back about the discount code.
The correct discount code is (15*ANITA). Thank you for your patience.
Hello Anita! Your sewing is absolutely amazing–your skill, detail, and creativity shines through every stitch. You have a gift, and it truly shows in your beautiful work!
Thank you so much, Gwendolyn!
Omg, you have outdone yourself in creating these looks. I love the looks dressed up with the blue trousers and the magenta dress. I also the love the everyday look with the riding boots and denim jeans. I think I’m going to try the coat even though I don’t need it where I live. I will be traveling to countries in the near future where it’s needed. Thank you so much for taking the time to include us in this sew alone.
Thank you, Anita! That’s a great idea so sew a coat for traveling to other countries. Have fun making your coat.
GORGEOUS !! Love all the details you explained. I am just blown away that all your navy fabrics match. I think I like the styling with the dress the very best but seriously think they are all great. I have always wanted to make a coat/jacket but have yet to give it a try.
Thank you so much, CJ! I was thrilled to have all the fabrics matching too. I love the coat with the dress too. Yes, give it a try. it’s a nice pattern.
Anita,
This coat is beautiful. I love everything you sew and model. I don’t really wear coats but I’m going to make this one. What lining are you using ? I’d love to use it for other garments as well.
Thank you, Charlotte! I used a Paisley Jacquard Lining Deadstock from Core Fabrics but I don’t see it on the website anymore, so they may have sold out. But here’s the item number just in case it comes back in stock. (F-DEA088-001)
It’s 52% Viscose, 48% Polyester, 58″ wide, Gold/Magenta
Absolutely gorgeous! Well done!! Coincidentally, I have this pattern and some wool ready to go – but I’m wondering about using a fusible interfacing on the wool, as the instructions suggest – do you think a sew in interfacing would be better? Also, since I will be using it in very cold weather, I want to add a fleece layer – I’m planning on sewing the fleece to my lining fabric; what are your thoughts on that? Thank you so much for your time and all your blogs! I love your posts!
Hi Meegan! I would definitely follow the suggested instructions concerning the interfacing. I tested my interfacing on a scrap piece of wool fabric to see what would happen and it was fine. Perhaps because mine is a wool blend and not 100% natural wool. Yes, I think the fleece layer for extra warmth sounds like a good idea to me. Have fun sewing your coat! 🤗
Anita, I could use that coat this week! Temps here in Memphis dropped to 31 degrees. This is a spiffy outfit and I love how you coordinate pieces to expand your wardrobe. The lining is gorgeous and elevates the internal look levels above a solid. The blue is regal and looks so rich with the cranberry sweater knit. Your new wardrobe has taken on the look of a boutique!!
Thanks for sharing; love this!!
*that’s exactly how you get your wardrobe to go further*
Yeah, I’m tired today 😅
Wow, this coat made me smile (as did your weather temperature ☺️). The lining is yummy looking. This looks great on you and the details you give are always appreciated.
I like how you styled the coat in each picture, that’s exactly how you to your wardrobe farther.
Great job my friend,
Lynette
Thank you, Lynette! Yes, sewing pieces that can be mixed and matched with lots of other pieces in my wardrobe makes me so happy.🤗
I love the coat and all the outfits you put together with the coat. The color is so rich. I definitely need to make the coat.
Thank you Shari! Yes, you should make this one for sure. It’s a great pattern.
So love that you showed the inside of the coat. The lining color surprised me but it shouldn’t have because I am learning you have “flair!” I have been sewing since my 20s (I’m 78) and never knew there was a pattern review site!!
I’m glad you got a little surprise with the lining. Oh yes, Pattern Review is a treasure. Have fun with all they have to offer.🤗
Love the coat with the Vogue pants. Love the versatile styling. You look great in them all. I love the pattern too.
Thank you Glenda!
I think all of your pieces look absolutely stunning. They don’s seem too hard to make, and yet they all look dressy and classy.
Thank you Monica! That’s what I really appreciate about all the pieces. They’re simple and classy. Less truly is more. 🤗
Just beautiful! The vogue pants look very good as well
Thank you Deborah!
Hi Anita,
Stunning coat and styling, especially the monochromatic looks. The shapely collar perfectly frames your lovely smile, and is reminiscent of the Edwardian period… it’s great to see the modern designer’s influences reimagined. Thank you for sharing your inspiring skills and tips.
Hi Peg! Thank you so much. I really love the collar too and it’s one of the design details that stood out when I first saw the pattern.
That is awesome beautiful jacket coat you look so beautiful your hair looks so nice. Just a beautiful lady.
Oh Debra, thank you so much. 💕💕💕
Fabulous look! Your styling is spot on. You’ve shown the versatility of the coat. The coat with the Nikko dress is my favorite. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you Hettie! I can’t wait to wear it with the Nikko Dress. 🤗
Anita, I love your coat and how you styled it. It’s absolutely beautiful! You did it again.
Thank you, Morlina! I’m so in love with this coat!
Exceptionally beautiful! Especially loved the coat with the dress, but thanks to its versatility, it should pair well with just about anything. Thank you for showing us.
Thank you Brenda! Yes, I love the versatility.
Beautiful. Inspires me to make in emerald green.
Yes! Emerald green would be so beautiful!
Love it! I want to make that cost in cream
and gold.
Oh my goodness! It would look amazing in both those colors.
Your coat and styling is impeccable. Love your style always. I have a red melton wool that I was looking for a pattern to use, I think this is it. Thank you
Thank you so much, Anne! YES! This is a great pattern for the Melton Wool because there are no design details like buttonholes and darts, etc. Have fun making your coat. 🤗
This coat is sooooo beautiful.
It’s absolutely a “must have” !!!! and I have put it on my to-do sewing list .
Txs a million for sharing your amazing sewing projects.
Beautiful coat and great styling variations that are both contemporary and classic! They will endure the test of time.
Love your coat and how you styled it! I especially love it with the red dress and am sad I didn’t pick up any of that cable fabric while Joann was still around.
Your weather sounds similar to mine in California, but I deal with it by not going out at night haha. Maybe it’s time to make a coat so I can go on a dinner date with my husband.
This entire outfit is just stunning! You have inspired me to try the coat pattern. I’m so glad you addressed how to
Pre-treat wool! I was going to ask that question. After a disaster with a wool blend many years ago ice shoes away from it. I need to give this a try!
Anita, this is truly a Vogue runway stopper. OUTSTANDING!!
Thank you so much, Elsie!💕
Its beautiful. I am inspired to try a coat!!
Yay! I’ll be looking forward to seeing your coat, Carmen! 🤗