What man (or woman, for that matter) wouldn’t like to own a waxed canvas pea coat?
Waxed canvas outerwear is all the rage these days. But as someone who has owned waxed bags, I have found that they can feel oily and attract lint. Could I find a good substitute?
On the third floor of Mood Fabrics NYC I found a dark brown coated cotton canvas made in Italy. I don’t know what it’s coated with—it feels a bit like oil paint but it isn’t stiff or heavy and you can still see the weave of the canvas. It’s waterproof and easy to handle and it stands up to pressing. It seemed perfect for an outerwear project. Editor’s note: We have some waxed and coated fabrics online here; you can also call either of our stores to check on what we have in stock there. The amount of waterproof and water-repellant fabrics we can have on hand varies greatly, so if you ever see one you like, grab it even if you don’t have any immediate plans for use.
I recently purchased a copy of a popular Japanese men’s coat pattern book. It has many classic coat patterns in it; however it’s entirely in Japanese. I chose the pea coat pattern and did my best working from the diagrams and my own experience making outerwear.
The coat has two double welt side pockets, buttoned sleeve tabs, and a notched collar. I added two inside breast pockets for a wallet and sunglasses. For lining, I used a soft cotton flannel check from Mood, and for the sleeves I chose a smooth rayon lining.
Here’s the result:
This coat is a bit lightweight for the coldest winter days, but it’s ideal for layering. It closely resembles waxed canvas and, in a certain light, even leather! I know it’s going to serve me well.
My next challenge is to make a similar coat in wool tweed. But first, I have the holidays ahead, which means a few well-earned days off from sewing.
Happy Thanksgiving, everybody!
