How to Make a Bolero Jacket
Learning to make a bolero is a beginner's sewing project. It takes about an hour to make a bolero and the cost is reasonable. The project uses about a yard of fabric and can be done without a pattern, although I recommend using patterns for more difficult styles of boleros.
In this how-to article, I suggest that the reader make a small paper mock-up to understand the shape of the garment and why it can be made with out a formal pattern.
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Things You'll Need
- 1 sheet of plain letter paper Pencil Glue Fabric (about a yard) Chalk fabric marker Pins Sewing machine Thread Scissors Iron and ironing board Binding tape (optional) Fusible interfacing (optional)
Instructions
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Make a Paper Pattern
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1
Sketch the shape of the bolero on paper. Cut the paper into the shape. Glue the edges as though they were seams.
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2
Measure your body for width and length of the garment. Add 1 inch on the length for the hem.
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3
Purchase enough fabric to match the length and width requirements. Fold the fabric right sides together as you did the paper model. Leave an extra 1 inch on both sides of the width for ease. Leave an extra 1 inch on the bottom for hem. Using a chalk fabric marker, make the neck curve. Using chalk fabric marker, draw the sleeve and side seam lines. Pin just inside the seam line and cut away excess yardage.
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4
Sew the underarm and side seams. Steam the seams open. Turn the garment right side out. Check the fit.
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5
Finish the raw edges with either seam binding or iron-on interfacing and hem.
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1
Tips & Warnings
See Resources for websites that show how to make this project from a T-shirt
Measure twice; cut once. Remember to add an inch to either side of the under arm and side seams.
