Sewing the Nova Coat: A Petite Sewist’s Journey
Hello, fellow stitchers! It’s your friend “Sewing For My Sanity” back with another exciting project to share. As the leaves begin to change and a crispness fills the air, my thoughts inevitably turn to outerwear–but the beauty of this coat is you may wear it all year long. And this year, I finally tackled a pattern that’s been on my radar for ages: the Nova Coat by Papercut Patterns. This coat has been a favorite in the sewing community for its unique blend of modern design and cocoon-like comfort, and I’m thrilled to share my experience bringing it to life, especially as a petite sewist using the original Sapporo Coat pattern.
Finding the right fit as a petite sewist can sometimes be a challenge, but the sewing the Nova Coat pattern proved to be surprisingly adaptable. This coat has been a favorite in the sewing community for its unique blend of modern design and cocoon-like comfort, and I’m thrilled to share my experience bringing it to life. The Nova Coat is a versatile design that can be dressed up or down, making it a perfect addition to any wardrobe, even a petite one. Its relaxed silhouette and wide sleeves offer a comfortable, yet stylish look that’s ideal for layering. What truly sets this sewing pattern apart, in my opinion, is its adaptability. With the right fabric choices, the Nova can transition seamlessly from a lightweight spring cover-up to a cozy winter warmer. And with a few key adjustments, it can be perfectly tailored for a petite frame.
Choosing Your Perfect Fabrics for the Coat
My Nova coat journey began, as most sewing projects do, with a deep dive into my fabric stash. As many of you know, I have a slight fabric hoarding problem (don’t judge!). I unearthed a remnant of a gorgeous wool blend that I’d been saving for just the right project. Its rich color and beautiful drape seemed perfect for the Nova’s structured yet flowing design. For the lining, I opted for a luxurious crepe back satin that I’d also had tucked away. The smooth texture feels incredible against the skin and adds a touch of elegance to the coat’s interior.
Choosing the right fabric is crucial for any sewing Nova Coat project, and the Nova is no exception. Consider the climate you live in and the overall look you’re aiming for. Wool blends, like the one I used, offer warmth and structure, making them ideal for colder weather. For a lighter option, consider linen, cotton twill, or even a quilted fabric for added texture and warmth. The lining fabric is equally important. A silky lining, like charmeuse or crepe de chine, will allow the coat to slip on and off easily, while a flannel lining will add extra coziness.
Navigating the Original Nova Coat Pattern: Tips and Tricks
Once I had my fabrics sorted, it was time to tackle sewing the original Nova Coat pattern. The Nova is a well-drafted pattern with clear instructions, making it suitable for intermediate sewists. However, like any project, there were a few areas where I had to pay close attention, especially with my petite adjustments in mind. One of the challenges I encountered was with the sleeves.
The pattern includes wide, kimono-style sleeves, which require careful attention during construction to ensure they lay flat and don’t pull. I found that using plenty of pins and taking my time with the stitching was key to achieving a professional finish. For petite sewists, shortening the sleeves is almost always necessary, and the Nova was no different. I carefully measured and adjusted the sleeve length before cutting my fabric. You may also want to consider decreasing the width of the the sleeves while keeping the kimono style.
Another area that required some extra thought, particularly for a petite fit, was the overall length of the coat. I shortened the length of the pattern by a few inches to achieve a more flattering proportion for my frame. This is a common adjustment for petite sewists, and it made a huge difference in how the coat looked and felt. I also paid close attention to the placement of the pockets, making sure they were positioned at a comfortable and flattering spot on my body.
Why Sew the Nova Coat? My Rewarding Experience
Sewing the Nova Coat was a truly rewarding experience. From choosing the perfect fabrics to carefully constructing each seam, I enjoyed every step of the process. And the result? A stunning, handmade coat that I know I’ll cherish for years to come. The feeling of slipping on a garment that you created yourself is truly unparalleled. It’s a testament to the power of creativity and the joy of making. And for petite sewists, the added satisfaction of achieving a perfect fit makes the experience even more special.
But the fun doesn’t stop there! The Nova Coat is incredibly versatile when it comes to styling. It can be dressed up with a scarf and heels for a night out, or dressed down with jeans and sneakers for a more casual look. I can’t wait to experiment with different outfits and see how many different ways I can wear my new coat.
If you’re looking for a challenging yet rewarding sewing project, especially if you’re a petite sewist, I highly recommend giving the Nova Coat pattern a try. With its stylish design, comfortable fit, and endless possibilities for customization, it’s a pattern that you’ll come back to again and again. Just remember to take those petite adjustments into consideration, and you’ll have a coat that fits you perfectly and makes you feel amazing!