I’m sure all you lovely makers out there are familiar with Ellie and Mac’s beautiful coat pattern, the ‘Duchess’ (and if you’re not, go take a look at it, it’s fabulous!). Well now, Ellie and Mac have brought out the super cool Duke!
I adored this pattern from the moment I laid eyes on it, and knew instantly that I had to sew it up for my boys. There was only one problem….it’s the middle of a very hot summer here in Brisbane*. But I wasn’t going to let a little thing like 38 degree days stop me (that’s 100 degrees Fahrenheit for our American friends). I applied to test this fun jacket and even though I’m not a regular tester for Ellie and Mac, I was lucky enough to be selected.
This jacket is fully lined, with optional but fun welt pockets and tabs. It comes in a range of kids sizes from 12-18 months to a size 14, and recommends the use of a medium to heavy weight woven fabric and a thinner fabric for the lining. For those in colder climates wanting to use thicker fabrics, the pattern recommends sizing up. My son was on the upper end of the sizing chart for a size 7 and the fit was just right.
The jacket pictured is made out of a wool blend for the main outer fabric and a satin fabric for the lining. The ‘Duchess’ I made for myself many months ago has the same satin lining, and when it is cold my son and I would cuddle up inside my coat. So when I was discussing fabric options with my son, he requested the same outer fabric so ‘we match’ and the same ‘super silky’ fabric on the inside 🙂
He doesn’t look super happy in this one, does he?!?
This second one is made from a cotton drill for the main outer fabric and a thinner woven cotton for the lining. I think this one has rather a cool, edgy look to it.
The instructions were clear, easy to follow and suitable for a beginner. The whole jacket came together very quickly and easily and I absolutely adore the result. My favourite part of the jacket is the many, many possibilities with the buttons. I simply love buttons and I figure on a jacket pattern like this, they are there to make a statement. I used ¾ inch buttons for both versions and don’t regret it. I think I prefer the button placement on the black and white jacket, simply because I think I added one too many for the khaki version. I’m already planning my next ‘Duke’ and this one will have some chunky, metal jeans snaps!
Tips for making the Duke
- The welt pockets were the trickiest part, so if you’ve never attempted them before take it slow and follow the instructions.
- Remember to cut out your main and liner as a mirror image. This is very important so make sure to double check before you cut.
- If your pocket piece sticks out a little past the Under Front Bodice, make sure to trim it back so it lays nice and flat once the liner is attached.
- Scared of button holes??? This pattern works really well with snaps too.
- If you want to give button holes a go and you decide to use a tricky fabric (such as a wool blend with satin lining!!!), make sure you interface, interface, interface. And sew a practice button hole first!
- Pattern: The Duke from Ellie and Mac
- Size: Kids 7 (no alterations)
- Fabric: Black and White version – Wool Blend from Spotlight Australia (Main Fabric), Satin from Spotlight Australia (Lining Fabric)
- Fabric: Khaki Version – Cotton Drill (Main Fabric), Cotton (Lining Fabric)
To get this pattern, my affiliate link is here. It doesn’t cost you any extra, but I appreciate every time someone clicks on it.
However, if you prefer to purchase the pattern without my affiliate link attached, please click here.
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com
*No boys were harmed during the making or modelling of this jacket. I had been worried about my son wearing this jacket in the heat for photo’s (even for just the 10 minutes it would take to shoot them) but luckily it rained heavily in Brisbane the weekend I took photo’s, which brought the temperature way down. He also took an extortionate amount of money from me as payment, so it’s really me you need to feel sorry for!
Sewing Under the Jacaranda 