How do I Make a Tuxedo Vest?

Make your own tuxedo vest.

Add life and originality to a tuxedo by making the vest yourself. You will not only save money but feel proud to show off the vest. With a few sewing supplies, a well fitting pattern and some dedication to careful sewing techniques, you should be able to complete the project in several hours.

Things You'll Need

• Tuxedo vest pattern
• Fabric for vest front
• Fabric for vest back
• Matching thread
• Fabric chalk
• Buttons (3 or 4)
• Scissors
• Buttonhole scissors
• Straight pins.

Instructions

1. Pick out a tuxedo pattern in a size that seems closest to the measurements of the person who is receiving the vest. Choose a suitable fabric in either lightweight wool, satin or brocade. Purchase a lightweight silk or satin fabric for the back of the vest.

2. Iron the fabric -- covered with a press cloth -- at the recommended temperature, to release any wrinkles. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, matching the selvage edges. Pin the front piece of the pattern making sure the arrow from top to bottom measures the same distance to the selvage edge. Pin the back pattern piece to the fabric you have selected. Mark all notches with fabric chalk and cut your pattern pieces.

3. Join the shoulder seams by putting the right sides together and sew. Press the seam open with your iron. Try the vest on over the formal shirt that will be worn for the occasion. Pin the side seams making sure you get the exact fit you desire.

4. Sew the side seams right sides together. Sew the facings for the neckline, front seams and armholes, putting right sides together and stitching. Fold inside and carefully press with the iron. Stitch the end of each facing piece with a zigzag stitch to avoid raveling. Try on the vest, making sure it fits properly. Mark the hemline. Add the facings for the hemline by sewing right sides together. Fold inside and press once again. Hem the bottom and all facings with a small blind stitch by hand.

5. Determine where and how many buttons you want on the vest. Mark your buttonholes with fabric chalk and add the buttonhole attachment on your sewing machine. Follow the instructions for sewing buttonholes. Cut the buttonholes carefully with your buttonhole scissors. Try the vest on and mark where to sew the buttons. Give the vest a final pressing with the iron.

Tips & Warnings

• Pressing with an iron after each seam gives the garment a professional look.

• For added design, sew small patch pockets on the front of each side of the vest.

• Making buttonholes can be challenging, and careful execution leads to a professional appearing vest.

References

• Made How: Tuxedo Information
• Love to Sew: Make a Vest