Sewing For My Sanity

Butterick 5359 Review and How to Sew Faux Fur

Butterick 5359 Review. This pattern hits the sewing table during the chilly months because faux fur is a luxurious and fashionable fabric, popular for winter wonderland fashionistas. However, sewing with faux fur can be daunting due to its thickness and pile. This blog post will delve into the intricacies of the Butterick 5359 sewing pattern for faux fur and provide detailed tips for a successful sewing experience.

What’s not to like about a cozy, snuggly fur vest?  I was walking into the grocery store on a cool breezing Sunday, and this stately appearing woman clutching her Mr’s arm stepped out in a gorgeous fur with heels.  I immediately had fur envy (plus she looked warm).  As I tried not to stare (or glare), the wheels started turning.  A December visit to Phoenix of all places would put face-to-face with two yards of faux fur.

Sewing Tips for Faux Fur

The Butterick 5359 pattern is specifically designed for faux fur and offers a range of variations of vests. Choosing the suitable faux fur fabric is crucial when embarking on your project just like when we choose sequins. Opt for a fabric that has a short pile and is not excessively thick. Good fabric choices will make sewing easier and ensure that your finished garment looks polished and professional.

When cutting your fabric, exercise caution and use a new razor blade or rotary cutter to avoid cutting through the fur. Cut only the backing of the material and minimize cutting the pile as much as possible. The goal is to preserve the texture of the coat and prevent shedding.

Using a long stitch length and a walking foot is imperative when sewing with faux fur. A walking foot will assist in feeding the fabric through the machine evenly and prevent the fur from slipping. Furthermore, it is essential to use a robust needle, such as a denim or leather needle, to avoid needle breakage or bending.

For the Butterick 5359 pattern, you may leave the seams unfinished because of a lining. You could also choose to finish the seams by providing a neat finish and preventing the fabric from fraying, but be forewarned this may add bulk to the seam.

Review & Sewing Pattern Adjustments

This pattern wasn’t difficult to sew.  It’s fairly simple.  I had to make several adjustments to the side seam and armhole:

  • I decreased the side seam by one inch for a more fitted polished look; not everyone will have this challenge, but I have a petite frame, and this vest takes up most of my body.
  • Also, I adjusted the armscye to make it smaller.  Again, I desired a fitted look and feel
  • Standard adjustments for me included a 2-inch decrease in the hem
  • Sewing adjustments included slip stitching the lining like I would for a dress with a zipper and lining.  I didn’t follow the instructions at all on this.
  • If you want to learn to sew with fur with sewing tips, click HERE

Butterick 5359 Pattern Review

This faux fur pattern was easy to sew but needs major adjustments for the petite body and frame.  If you are making this vest consider adjusting the side seams and armsyce early on or make a muslin.  Also, ensure your vest is long enough or tapered enough for the proper fit.  If you are vertically challenged, and you want the vest to hit just below the waist, you may have to decrease the length by 0.5-1.5 inches, depending on your preference.  

Other great Faux Fur Sewing Patterns

  • McCalls 7847
  • Burda 6359
  • Simplicity 8741

Final thoughts on Butterick 5359

In conclusion, sewing with faux fur can be challenging, but you can produce a stunning and sophisticated garment with the right tools and techniques. The Butterick 5359 pattern is ideal for sewing with faux fur, and we hope that these detailed tips will help you achieve a flawless sewing project. Happy sewing!