Pattern Help

[sloth]

So I'm pretty much your textbook definition of a beginner when it comes to sewing, which means I can't really make anything without a pattern and I don't really know how to edit them either.  That being said, I have taken the challenge of making my boyfriend basic garb for TRF this year.  I have the patterns for his shirt and pants, but I can't seem to find a doublet pattern I'm happy with.  I've looked at Simplicity 4059 (which seems to be the main one recommended), but it doesn't have a collar and it seems to have a panel crossing underneath the front under the (non-functioning) buttons.  The boy wants the option to wear the doublet either open or closed, and it just doesn't seem like that pattern will work.

long story short, does anyone have a pattern recc for me that has a collar and will look okay open?  I'm pulling my hair out trying to find one.

[Lady Kathleen of Olmsted]

This is a pattern for a Doublet from Fantasy Fashions that is easy enough to follow and adjust for a good fit that I have used on numerous ocassions and need to reorder. The one I have is getting so ripped up from repeated use. This Doublet can be made with closures, loops and buttons, grommetted, etc.  Plenty ideas for finishing.

Be sure to get an accurate measurement of the back measurement from the neck to the natural waistline(the narrowest part of the torso) to determine the spacing between the Doublet Back pattern pieces. That will give you the side seam measurement as well when adjusting the Doublet Front piece. It took me a few minutes to figure that out.



I order many patterns from this site. www.patternsoftime.com Click Products, then Adult Patterns, then Renaissance. This one was on page 12.

Hope this helps. Using patterns not from the big 3 can be better because they are designed to look more period.

[Lady Kathleen of Olmsted]

Here are some Doublets I made using the Fantasy Fashions Doublet Pattern.


Front of an Over Doublet to a Elizabethan Gown with using trim in different ways.




Using the FF Doublet pattern and redrafting it to be in Vertical sections.


My husband the Earl.


The Earl with Maddame Red from Kansas City

[sloth]

Thank you so much for the help, Lady Kathleen!  I had read a less than favourable review of that pattern on amazon, but you're gorgeous creations have definitely changed my mind about it. 

[Dinobabe]

Very often I will use different pieces from patterns and put them together to get what I want.  Typically (at least with the big 3, and my limited experience) construction and technique is pretty much the same throughout, so it's not too far a reach.  I will also add pattern extensions to pieces (i.e. putting a point in the back of a vest instead of a standard flat bottom) and remove pieces.  It did take some learning but once you get the basic concept you can really do what ever you want!
 
I have made 4059 and it's a good learning piece.  I simply added grommets down the front and sides to make it more functional.  Don't be afraid to try things and don't think a lack of experience limits you.  Sewing is a lot of fun.  Good luck!!

[sloth]

Thanks for the encouragement, Dino!  Do you happen to have any pictures of the doublet you made with 4059?  I'm interested in seeing how it can be edited.

[Lady L]

I agree with Lady Kathleen on the FF pattern. I have used it numerous times and it is easy to make, looks great and has many options.

[LadyShadow]

I have used pattern 4059 to make the longer of the two doublets for my husband. I was pretty pleased with the results. Although I did change what I used for loops on the buttons as what was suggested did not work.

[Dinobabe]

I made it reversible.  It was one of my first pieces and I'm not too keen on the colors choices now!