Claire's Coat: 1940's Tailored Coat, but for -15 Winters!

[@ShannonMakes]

What is YOUR favorite feature of the coat?

[@AJansenNL]

Aesthetically the pleats are my favourite part, technically it's the magnet. Could you use them for your belt as well?

[@ShannonMakes]

@@AJansenNL unfortunately I don't think they're *that* strong... I do want the belt to be very firmly held in place, and I don't think the magnets have that much strength (there's not much force or pressure trying to rip the coat open at knee height)... good idea though!!

[@ShannonMakes]

@@RyanMercer oooh yes, it's such lovely fur!! And the rest of the cap I pulled it from was literally falling apart, so I didn't even feel like I was destroying anything to salvage it!

[@saint-miscreant]

the fabric you received from your local store looks like modern hair canvas / tailor’s canvas!

[@ShannonMakes]

Hmm, that’s interesting, because it doesn’t look like any of the hair canvas I’ve previously worked with!

[@RychaardRyder]

OMG, Claire's "modern" outfits dont ever get enough love! her 40s, 50s, and 60s, looks have just as much detail and references to her time in the 1700s

[@ShannonMakes]

SO true!!

[@kaytemnorwood]

Bernadette Banner was my gateway influencer to historical dress (mostly because I didn't have a sewing machine) but damn, I want to make a pair of combinations so bad now.

[@jenniferharris1280]

BB is the ultimate gateway drug! Have you planned a pirate shirt yet?

[@kaytemnorwood]

@@jenniferharris1280 Planned? 100%. Started? 😶

[@jenniferharris1280]

@@kaytemnorwood same girl. Same.

[@mallorymyers7525]

Yup! And now an thoroughly enjoying the realm of historical youtube sewists, whilst hand stitching a shift.

[@elmarklaus]

​@@kaytemnorwood made? Like 4, or 5 of them. But there is a video by someone else that improves the pattern. I like the shirt, because I can get it done in a few hours, with a combination of hand sewing and machine sewing for the best effect on the outside.

[@dunkel429]

I absolutely love the removable hood. I also live in an ice-covered wasteland, and have been toying with making my own perfect coat, but I have never done any of these techniques either. This is such an inspiration.

[@ShannonMakes]

Oooh, that's great, I love that you were inspired!! "ice-covered wasteland" sounds about right (*glances outside where the temperature rose JUST enough for the snow to melt a bit, and then dipped right back down, to guarantee a nice thin coat of ice hidden under the fresh snow*)

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

Right now it’s 1C so a bit of rain expected before the main snow lots of snow! Of course southern Ontario is freaking out but yeah ice under fresh snow. Oh joy! I too have a dream coat idea. A hood is a definite need for winter!

[@lizcademy4809]

I also love the hood, especially the fur. And my "ice covered wasteland" might be colder than Montreal (Minneapolis). I became interested in historic clothing many, many years ago, in my university library, wandering among the stacks, and a book caught my eye. And never let go ... I even infected my daughter with the historical clothing virus.

[@lulubellsshoebox1650]

That secret magnet is genious! I need to remember that feature if ever I make a coat!

[@thizizliz]

It's not a sewing project as much as a tailoring one. It's stunning and looks like a multithousand dollar item - Bespoke don't come cheap! :D Your labor, skill and imagination make for a lifetime treasure garment. I began drooling until realizing that I'd only have 1 or 2 opportunities a year in which to revel in all that glorious piece. Congratulations. Yes, I know this is a year old, but better late than never.

[@ShannonMakes]

Oh thank you!

[@LedgerAndLace]

"Frigid Hell Scape" would make a great band name. What a FANTASTIC job you did! The fabric, the zipper-option hood, the hidden pockets: WOW!!!

[@ShannonMakes]

LOL yes, if I had any musical talent at all, it'd be my first option... in the meantime, feel free to steal it for yourself or any musically inclined friends 🤣🤣💙

[@sherisaunders1517]

I really love the magnet! That was such a great idea to help keep the coat closed.

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you! 😊🧲

[@elizabethclaiborne6461]

This coat is really a work of art, the movement is beautiful, it walks, it has a beautiful line. All that work doing mock ups really was worth it. The modern Dr Who’s wear what the costume designers call The Hero Coat. It has a lot of swagger and is a very British tailoring answer to the cape. This coat has that swagger factor, which the designer for Claire may have been looking for. (Those pleats in the back!) Great job!

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you!! I haven't heard of the Hero Coat (haven't seen Dr. Who), but I'll have to go look it up! 🥰

[@joclark3702]

LOVE this coat. Not much of a sewist, but I do like to see the work of other makers. There is such artistry in tge designs and patterns.

[@meowdee]

Ahhh my favorite « part » is the re-using of softshell coats - and giving a new life to that fur! I see fur caps often in my local thrift store, i’ll have to keep this in mind :)

[@ShannonMakes]

Just be aware that it's an absolute PIA to sew in 🤣🤣 But yes, it was nice to be able to recycle, and as I told someone else, the original cap was in such wretched condition that I didn't even feel like I was destroying it in order to repurpose!

[@meowdee]

God damn it, don’t scare me - my partner is pleading for me to sew him up some drop crotch joggers from the softshell he bought 😂 Also i like the pin method for the belt closure btw! I’d probably go and open up the lining to add a reinforcing strip at the pinning spot. Perhaps find a more ornate pin? Like the cloak ones!

[@kvistkvasten]

For the belt, I would attach hooks to the outer part and make thread loops on the inner part. You would have to get really close to see the unused loops. And if you have a bit more of the wool you could make a “storm flap”. Basically a kind of U-shaped bit to attach with a button inside at each shoulder, to cover the open neckline when the weather is extra awful.

[@ShannonMakes]

A storm flap is a fun idea!! I don't know that I'll need it, but it's a clever solution... and I do have some extra fabric somewhere... 🤔

[@The.Spoonie.Witch66]

I think using the magnet trick to keep the belt in place could work. It would look very smooth and streamlined. It’s such a clever idea!

[@melissamybubbles6139]

Your coat is beautiful! The hidden magnet is genius! I have been interested in the eighteenth century since I was 11 years old. A few years ago, KZbin began recommending historical costumers to me. I was so happy to find out that there were people making content about historical clothing.

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you so much! And thanks for sharing, that's so fun that you got into it so early!

[@dianehawrysh7707]

🥳🥳🥳 oh Shannon - your coat is FABULOUS and you are totally inspiring! I really like how you made the decision to take it slowly and enjoy every step. I agree with one of the other comments about more subscribers. So many others would be delighted to know that they too could have the same lovely feeling that Claire must have had whilst swishing around Scotland in such a beautiful coat! Thank You!!

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you so much!! 🥰🥰 I'm so glad you enjoyed the video, and the end product, and I hope you'll stick around and check out some of the other fun videos on the channel (while I'm off imagining myself as Claire in Scotland...🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿)

[@deborahc398]

It's all about the pleats for me - they look fabulous, and I'm sure feel great while "swishing". I also love how you often find a way to re-use items that would otherwise go to the landfill. Great job!

[@ShannonMakes]

Yes! Thank you (and now I'm singing 🎶all about the pleats, 'bout the pleats🎶). Thank you, I love recycling and repurposing when possible! It was a nice balance to buying the two main fabrics.

[@peculiarheroine]

What a wonderful coat! A great shape, and a beautiful color.

[@ShannonMakes]

Many thanks!!

[@TechieSewing]

Oh, I always wanted a coat that doesn't make me look like a refrigerator but also warm. One day I'll make one :)

[@ShannonMakes]

LOL "I want a coat that doesn't make me look like a refrigerator" is a mood, for sure!!

[@catpawrosales4265]

Or a walking sleeping bag lol

[@KelseyDrummer]

Hahaha! Love this comment.

[@chelseaschilling7490]

I desperately want this pattern!! I love it! I've been searching and searching for a coat pattern. I don't think I would create the belt. But everything else, is right up my alley. Thank you for what your doing.

[@ShannonMakes]

You're welcome

[@Karens-Collectibles]

Your coat is exquisite!!! The fur-trimmed hood adds that gorgeous element!!! The pleats add to that classic, elegant look. Beautifully done, my dear! You are talented!!❤❤

[@TruFlyFox]

Your production quality is SOOOOO good and you are so talented. You need more subscribers. I LOVE the magnet!! And the fur. Since I live in a similar climate, I am very familiar with attempting to stay warm. As for the closure, use an Irish cloak pin.

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you so much!! I get this comment every now and then, but I didn't anticipate it on this video in particular, as I'm not actively *making* anything, but rather just retroactively talking about a past project. So that was a fun surprise! Interesting idea about the cloak pin, I'll look into it (immediate thought: I worry about snagging my sleeve on it, and destroying the wool, but maybe I can find a low-profile one??)

[@meggraham3670]

Beautiful coat. Congratulations on a great 👍 job. You should be proud. Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@agimagi2158]

I got into historybounding through pre-code films and sherlock holmes + videos of some costubers popping up in my recommended. I love the pleats in your coat the movement is so elegant and dramatic!

[@ShannonMakes]

I just had to Google what pre-code films were, but the whole topic/genre looks intriguing, I had never heard of that before! And thank you 🥰

[@asilverfoxintasmania9940]

The finished coat is gorgeous! It has great flair and the hood being detachable is such a clever idea!

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you!! 💙💜

[@chamberswagner2010]

That coat is absolutely gorgeous! I love how you took your inspiration historical coat and made it your own.

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you so much! A pleasant change from the woman who went off on me in an Outlander Costuming group about how this was a lovely coat and all, but NOTHING like Claire's coat in the show... a dose of reality with our costuming and cosplay is much appreciated 🥰🥰

[@chamberswagner2010]

@@ShannonMakes I'm sorry you had that interaction. Sometimes the costuming community is so supportive and then sometimes it is...not. Some folks get a bit too wrapped up in their own hobby they forget that not every does (or needs) to do it all the same way. We create to make things and have fun making things. I think your coat is gorgeous and has such beautiful lines and details. And it looks like you enjoyed the process of making it!

[@marywest2896]

the fur to me is the cherry on top of a gorgeous garment...the magnet is brilliant...I don't sew well at I, but I love watching artists at their craft, to me you create art, and I love watching folks create....

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you, Mary!! 💙💜💚

[@adrianbettevy8582]

Living in the Deep South we rarely need a winter coat. Your coat is beautiful and I love the fur on the hood. I like what you said about enjoying the process. When I’m on a big project I relish all the parts of the process. Keep the videos coming.

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you so much!! Yea, agreed that Deep South really doesn't require such a heavy duty coat 😭 Glad you watched and enjoyed regardless though!

[@coal.sparks]

The magnet is BRILLIANT. Why didn't I think of that? Why hasn't EVERYONE thought of that?

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you, and that is truly a question we should all be asking ourselves!!

[@karenfrances]

I love the pleats, the hood, but mostly your ingenious way of changing the pockets. I became interested in historic fashion after I wrote a story on Mary Wollstonecraft and needed to do some research on what they wore in the eighteenth century. From my research, I found Abby Cox's channel and her books and now your channel, and have been fully immersed ever since.

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you!! You're the first person to mention the pockets (surprisingly enough)! Glad you found my channel and are enjoying the (at least vaguely) historical content! 💯💙💜💚

[@microfou]

Gorgeous fabric, love the pleats and the hood…. You are an excellent seamstress. I can do advanced detailed work sewing wise but modifying patterns they way you did is beyond my capabilities ! Bravo !! Your coat is stunning ❤

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you!!

[@damogranheart5521]

I live in Minnesota! I love everything about the coat except that I'd change the pocket lining so I don't have to wrestle the pocket to get my stuff out. Fur is Warming! Zippers can rock when careful thought goes into placing them. Well Done Ye!

[@ShannonMakes]

I have family in Minnesota!! Have you seen my video on S.R. Harris?! You might enjoy it, as a local!! But yea, if I had a slippery tartan lining, that would be just perfect!! Thanks for watching 💙💜

[@damogranheart5521]

@Shannon Makes S.R.Harris is where I got the material for my reversible hooded cloak! I got the black frogs at Minnesota Fabrics, and I don't remember where I got the silver leaf clasp for the other side. Now, there is a pattern(if I can find it) that needs work! I'd put pockets in it for one!

[@CosnerCoPiloting]

What a gorgeous coat! I love all of my winter gear that has the magnets in it, I had one with enough wed mess around in the instructors locker room and stick it up on a locker open when I taught snowboarding.

[@JosieStev]

You are multi-talented. This is a lovely coat😊The hood is so fun🎉

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you so much 🤗

[@eleanorstrong8315]

During lockdown I found Bernadette Banner and found her sewing so soothing. She inspired me to mend! Ordering new needles seemed like overkill until they slipped through any fabric! I had no idea, a real wake up to using quality tools. Your coat is a beautiful work of art, so lovely and so functional. The fabric drapes so perfectly on you. The removable hood was true inspiration giving you more warmth only when needed. Congratulations!

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you! 🥰🥳🧵🪡 I think many others have a similar origin story!

[@charlottebarnes9600]

I just love the entire design of it beautiful as well as practical for frigid weather!

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you!! 🥰🥰❄️ Glad you like it, thanks for watching

[@susanaperez3643]

Muy sister push me with her into this rabbit hole of historial sewing, as a know Outlander Novels were an inspiration for her, she has been a fan of series and books for very long. So you meet all the thing we love. Thank you!

[@ShannonMakes]

That's awesome, thanks for sharing!! You're welcome and I'm glad you enjoyed the video!

[@deloresgutierrez1350]

Great coat! I love your construction details! That is what makes it so great!

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you so much!

[@pippaseaspirit4415]

I’m quite happy working from (and adjusting) a pattern, but when I’m feeling inspired and confident I’m also quite happy to completely wing it from what I can see in my head! Your magnet idea is pure genius!

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you!! 🧲🧲

[@shawnaclair1151]

Your coat turned out so beautifully. I love the pleats, and I LOVE the fur edged hood. It's the best way to keep the wind whipped snow out ones face. I don't think I am quite ready to tackle a coat yet, but I would love to make this. I first fell in love with historical clothes when I was 9 and reading the American Girl books, especially Felicity. A few years ago, I was introduced to the historical costuming community through one of Bernadette Banner's videos, and it just snowballed from there. I had no idea there were so many others like me out there. I really enjoy your videos and content. Thank you. 😊

[@ShannonMakes]

You are very welcome, and I definitely believe that you can tackle a coat like this one day, if you just keep sewing and keep making mistakes (yes, it's an inevitable part of the process, just see.... well, pretty much ANY of my other videos 😝) and keep learning... you will definitely progress and improve and be equipped to make a winter jacket of your own!! Glad you are enjoying the videos, thank you so much for watching!

[@SewBiased]

Thanks so much for the shoutout, and I LOOOOOOVE this coat! Such a sucker for a princess coat!

[@ShannonMakes]

Of course, you're very welcome and it's a great video!

[@technicolormind]

What a beautiful coat! I went to university in Montreal and your b-roll makes me miss it so much!

[@ShannonMakes]

Aww, thank you!! Glad to give you some fun memories!

[@kathleennewbern480]

I love so much about your coat it’s hard to pick just a few. I love the swish and fullness of the bottom. The zipper and magnet are great. And so is the removable hood.

[@ShannonMakes]

sooooo basically the whole coat?! ;-) Thank you!! 💙💜💙

[@pesahson]

Wonderful coat! Love all your adjustments to make it comfortable and practical. This is what sewing is about! Thank you for sharing.

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you so much!

[@debraanneclark2188]

I love the whole coat and the added hood makes it so versatile. I am not a sewist but I love watching how things are made and the history that goes with all of that

[@ShannonMakes]

Awww, why thank you! And I love that you are still enjoying the videos even though you yourself don't sew... that's extra special to me! 💙

[@Seelix15]

There is nothing better than a coat and yours looks fantastic! Love the nod with the tartan pocket lining. Now I want to sew one again, too! For the closure, maybe if its strong enough you could do magnets again? You could put several to make it adjustable

[@ShannonMakes]

Unfortunately, I don't think the magnets are that strong... I do want the belt to be very firmly held in place, and I don't think the magnets have that much strength (there's not much force or pressure trying to rip the coat open at knee height, but there is significantly more at my waist 🤣)... good idea though, and many others have suggested it as well!

[@03Destinee]

What a gorgeous coat!! I made my own wool princess coat 8 years ago now (!!!) in a gorgeous eggplant colour and it still looks great to this day andis still one of the projects I'm the most proud of. I made similar adjustment to my pattern for the Quebec winter (hidden zipper closure, hood, thinsulate layer) so it was really interesting to see your take on it! The wool fabric along the wrist hem is starting to get very slightly worn after 8 years of wear so I was planning on maybe adding cuffs after this winter season so I was especially happy to see you added cuffs on yours!!

[@ShannonMakes]

Lovely, lovely, lovely! Purple is another of my fav colors (if you couldn't tell from my wall in the background there, although that's maybe a bit lighter than eggplant)! I have only been to QC once, but I'd imagine it's windier than Montreal, so even more important to have all those winter features built in! I think adding the cuffs on to help cover the wear is a genius idea, and I love it!

[@tricialinden]

WOW Amazing. I'm not a seamstress so I highly admire the time and effort you put into making such a stunning, finished coat. Love the hidden, zippered hood with fur. So practical. and the hidden magnet closure is also impressive.

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you! 😊🥰🎉

[@sallyparsons5057]

How beautiful and so well done. Your love of sewing and talents shows. Love the smart addition of the hood and fur trim. Good choice of pockets. Love the belt. Wonder how you decided to finish the closure. Maybe buttons, positioned to the front?

[@MsCheshirecat42]

I have been looking for a vintage style coat with either pleats of some flare for a while and could not yet find one. I love e a lot of things about your coat, the inspiration, the fabric looks very nice, the length and general shape seems great, the magnet is ingenious, and recycled fur is fine. Congratulations! And I envy your snow ;)

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you!! Sounds like you like LOTS of features of the coat (and I have to agree, I do too)!! And yes, the snow is so lovely and fun, I adore it!! ❄️❄️❄️

[@bakaichigo]

LOVE this! I want one :D I like that you recycled the old fur, so that its not wasted, but also did not get new real fur. Having that trim really does make a difference!

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you!! Yes, I find that using recycled fur is a perfect balance between not using fake fur (basically just plastic) and getting new fur (an idea I don't love)

[@janielamie7697]

I fell in love with historical costumes as a child watching Anne of Green Gables (1985 version). Still dream of having a dress with puffy sleeves ❤

[@ShannonMakes]

Awwwww.... gotta make yourself a puffy sleeved dress!!

[@barbt259]

Been thinking about a wool coat and this has given me inspiration and food for thought. Thanks for sharing it with us.

[@ShannonMakes]

You're very welcome! Thanks for watching

[@cherryvanspice829]

Can't thank you enough for this video ... This on point what I searched for. I try this with some Jaquard fabric ☺️ It's my first bigger sewing project.

[@ShannonMakes]

good luck!

[@robyn3349]

What a beautiful coat! I do love the fur lined hood, the pleats, the zipper, the wool! Well done!

[@ShannonMakes]

Why thank you! 💙💜

[@carlagarrett8584]

i GOT INTO the 40/50s when I looked at my mothers pictures, her and her sisters had the perfect look for these wonderful shapes.

[@denisevettraino7916]

Fabulous project, Shannon, and the finished coat reflects the labor of love you put into it Gorgeous! I love the pleats and the pockets best but the whole silhouette of the garment is perfection...the length and volume are the drama, as is the rich color of the wool...you thought of everything on this one because who doesn't love a detachable fur-trimmed hood! Sorry, but I'm stumped on that belt closure....I haven't sewn seriously in years, but you certainly inspire me for meaningful historical pieces, Thanks

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you for your lovely words, Denise! And don't worry, there have been many other suggestions for belt closures in the comments (if you EVER need ideas, just skim through the many good ones here)!! Thanks for watching, I love hearing that I can inspire people through my videos 💙💜💙

[@gavannapatterns353]

Oooh lovely coat! I'm actually a tailor, and I've never pad stitched the entire front of a garment, just collar, lapel and maybe some of the shoulder area. I've always used fusible interfacing for the "big" parts of a coat. But I'm a men's tailor and we sometimes do things a bit differently. I think you did a good job with your additions and changes and the coat looks adorable in the snow 🥰

[@ShannonMakes]

Hey, an actual tailor, huzzah and welcome!!! Yea, I don't honestly remember why I chose to do that - if I read about it as a technique, or if I just decided that I didn't like the idea of huge pieces of interfacing "floating" around the inside of the coat and that it just made me feel better to tack it down somewhat?? It doesn't seem to have any downside, other than taking some time (but not even that much time), so I probably figured to just do it and hopefully it'd contribute to the longevity of the garment! Thank you for the comments and compliments, I'm honored that an actual tailor approves of the job 💙💜💙

[@kitefan1]

In the late 70s , I owned a heavy wool "Maxi" coat. Thinsulate did not exist yet so it had a thin quilted layer between the wool and the lining. If you decide to press it be sure to use a press cloth, I preferred a thin towel, to prevent the wool from flattening or getting shiny. I used to brush it more than iron. For the belt I would use the sort of buckle where the belting goes in on the center end of the rectangle then over where the other end of the belt is sewn to the crossbar and under the other side of the rectangle. Some have a slide piece the friction helps keep the belt from sliding.

[@SauronsAccntnt]

The One Robe to Rule Them All brought me to your channel, and I am so happy about it. Your work is lovely, and a great reminder to set a peaceful pace for my own self when I take on sewing projects; to just enjoy the crafting of a garment. Wonderful work as usual!

[@ShannonMakes]

I'm so happy to have you here, and welcome aboard! I'm very glad you're enjoying the videos, there are lots of fun projects on the channel that will keep you entertained for quite some time if you go back through the whole archive! And yes... it's nice to try and take a peaceful pace and actually enjoy the process. My sewing tends to be more on the meticulous side (sometimes too much), which doesn't always mesh well with making regular videos, so sometimes even I need the reminder 🤣🤣

[@SauronsAccntnt]

@@ShannonMakes Thank you so much for the warm welcome! I have already begun the process of meandering through your back stock lol, and while I look forward to a future with new videos from you, whatever frequency they happen to emerge into the world they shall be happily received!

[@TheMaggieMia]

You did a video at the SR Harris Fabric warehouse up in the Minneapolis Minnesota area that I watched a couple months ago, and now I have been there, had a great time and probably spent too much $$, thanks for letting me and others know it existed!

[@ShannonMakes]

Oh, amazing that you were able to visit and have a successful trip (I mean, it's hard NOT to find something to buy when you're there, right?!)... very, very fun!!

[@kaytiej8311]

Those pleats! So elegant. And l think your choice of fabric is perfect. What a beautiful colour and weave. I'm here because I really enjoy your work, how you present, and hearing more of your story. It doesn't matter what you work on, you make all of them sound like an adventure and I'm here to cheer you on and for the vicarious wins and lessons! 😊

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you so much! 💜💙

[@abigailpip112]

Hello, good to see you again. The coat is lovely, I like the pleats, but for me, the best feature is the interlining. It doesn't get quite that cold where I live but, I like to be warm! Belt closure could be a belt buckle! Does all the things you want

[@ShannonMakes]

except that it snags on anything that brushes against it and will eventually catch on and ruin the wool 😭

[@Lyissaful]

I love all the features. Amazing work

[@morganpresley496]

This coat is SO gorgeous!!!! I am absolutely blown away by your sewing skills! About a year ago, I happened across a similar vintage coat pattern, and even though it was (and still is) far above my sewing level, I had to get it. This video has renewed my aspirations, and I can't wait for my sewing abilities to have improved enough to take on the project!! :D

[@ShannonMakes]

That's fantastic! I definitely believe that you can tackle your dream coat one day, if you just keep sewing and keep making mistakes (yes, it's an inevitable part of the process, just see.... well, pretty much ANY of my other videos 😝) and keep learning... you will definitely progress and improve and be equipped to make that vintage jacket of your own!! Glad you are enjoying the videos, thank you so much for watching!

[@SW-jj1tn]

Wow, I love everything about this. The finished coat looks amazing and I love how you changed the pattern to adapt it to your needs and how you used so many traditional tailoring techniques to achieve a really professional-looking and hopefully long-lasting result! I loved how you explained the measures you took to keep the coat from stretching out in the back, those kinds of details are really helpful. I'm planning to make my own coat this summer and was also planning to go for a 1940s look. Unfortunately, I couldn't find a pattern with pleats in the back (even though that would have been my favourite option), I really hope the pattern you used will be available again before I start, then I'd definitely go for it, as it's exactly what I wanted but couldn't find anywhere. If not, I'll probably settle for Butterick 5425.

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you!! I definitely hope the pattern will be come available shortly too (if for no other reason than it means that the pattern designer's life will have hopefully come back to less stressful levels!!), and that you can use it for your coat! Otherwise you could maybe take a pleated dress pattern and Frankenpattern it into your existing coat pattern, if you're comfortable with that level of shenanigans!!

[@selfcarewithashley6801]

Amazing! I would love to see her coat from the newest season as well! It's so gorgeous.

[@ShannonMakes]

I fully admit to not having seen anything past the early 5th season, unfortunately, but I've no doubt that there continue to be some drool-worthy costumes on there!

[@haakdraakje]

Amazing what a difference the hood makes. Modern vs. vintage. Another job well done and a beautiful result! Congrats!

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you very much!!

[@Globetrotteuse42]

I love what you did, and I'm still coming back to that video, since I wish to do a coat that looks alike, with such hood ! Hope the pattern will be back soon !

[@ShannonMakes]

Ditto! And thank you!

[@maryellenoneill9061]

🤩. First time I’ve watched your videos! I’m hooked! I am an outlander fan, I absolutely love the books but have only seen a handful of the shows. Your coat is gorgeous 😍. The flecks of color are wonderful. Thank you for the info on tailoring this work of art. I know some of the terminology but have never worked with wool as regular wool garments make me itch. A wool coat would be nice. I can’t decide on one feature I like best. The snap was a brilliant solution to add closure below the zipper. The pleats and swish are so elegant. I personally liked the curved pockets 😉. I’ll have to check out more of your videos as I’m intrigued and love your enthusiasm and energy. I’ve been to Montreal in the winter so fully appreciate the hood and zipper closure. Fantastic job and so glad to hear it’s done very well for the past three years- may it last many more. I would’ve liked to see the reused interlining pieces you used… 🤷‍♀️. 🤩

[@ShannonMakes]

If you enjoyed the books, you might like at least the first couple seasons of the show... those were the ones that I jived with the most, personally... after that, my mental vision of the characters and the story diverged too much, so I stopped watching and just kept on reading! I would have liked to see the reused interlining too... or, honestly, about a zillion other things from the interior of this coat 😭 I'm really not into Instagram, so I didn't take hardly any photos of the process when I did it, which I regret now, but at least I enjoyed the whole journey? Hope you have fun with some of the other videos, there are SO MANY good projects in there! If you are looking for a place to start, there's a playlist on my channel homepage with my personal favorites ("Best Of Shannon Makes"), otherwise most of the stuff is pretty fun and much along the same vibes!

[@joycebrett8364]

I love love the pleats. The magnet closure is amazing. I would never be able to make this coat! You are very talented !

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you so much!! I'm glad you enjoyed the video, and thanks for watching 💙💜💙

[@RowanTreeArt]

i recently found some black wool that i was going to use to make a coat, but haven't felt inspired by the pattern i have. I may just have to look for a similar pattern to this one because i am inspired!! Gorgeous work and i love how it turned out!

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you 🤗

[@mydailystitches]

My favorite is that you have the foresight to envision a “look” and the knowledge to accomplish your goal. It’s fantastic. I’ve sewn a few things. I do plan on making the adjustable skirt you made once I can locate some fabric. Where I live fabric stores are not plentiful and selection is limited. Those pleats in the back are wonderful. Love the flowiness (is that a word? Lol) of the coat. The hood was a great add too. Actually, I love everything about it!

[@ShannonMakes]

Love that, and I'm wishing you the best of luck on finding some fabric, either in a store, or online (if that's an option for you, which hopefully it is)! Thank you for watching, and yes, I love the flowiness of the coat too!! 💙💜💙

[@wingsinthewood]

That fabric is beautiful! Such dimension in the color.

[@ShannonMakes]

Yes, right?! I love the color!! Thank you 🥰

[@stevezytveld6585]

That coat is amazing on so many levels. This is definitely a video I'll be coming back to - I came into some lovely wool & a vintage coat pattern, so I need to make that happen. The swing of the fabric when you move, the colour, the attention to _all_ the details are simply perfect. So well done. The wind guard that magnets closed is utter brilliance. And I love the reused fur - as much as I hate to admit it animal pelts really do provide the best protection against winter. The detachable hood is a great solution (I have one attached by buttons and it tends to pop apart). In complete agreement with all the changes you made for your final result. The TV show version is lovely, but you'd be a popsicle at the bus stop in a matter of minutes... Fun tip for fur - face the fur inwards towards the body, the leather side pointing out. The hair creates a bubble of air that the body heats up, and then it just keeps cycling along. You could make a second completely fur lined hood for the -45 with windchill cold snap... I'm a cautious sewist - I do multiple mock-ups, although I do it in stages of bodice, bottom, facings, and ending in sleevil territory. I'm getting it down to 8 mock-ups for my last project. So, improvement. Only been making clothing for the past three years. Still have allot to learn. I never intended to get into sewing; actively avoided it for most of my life. Then, somewhere around the middle of 2019 I decided the only way I could afford to have clothing that actually fit short waisted, sway backed, t-rex armed, busty, short me is if I started making my own. Then the algorithm sent me B. Banner's 'how to stitch' video and away we go. I taught myself sewing during lockdowns from YT videos and by remembering what my Mum used to do for her quilting. I'm now at the point of thinking of going back to school for an MA in Art History. Fingers crossed. This year I'm trying to learn everything I can about fit, ease and tailoring. - Cathy (&, accidently, Steve), Ottawa/Bytown/Pimisi

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you, Cathy-by-way-of-Steve!! I definitely hope that you get your own vintage coat made up one day soon, and that you're just as happy with it as I am with mine! It was such a fun process, and definitely a learning one, but what fun is a project if you don't learn at least one new thing along the way, right?!

[@miriamharris7757]

I’m impressed all over again. A woman of so many and varied interests and abilities is endlessly fascinating. Everything is done with such wonderful careful planning and craftsmanship. I could go on raving but you get it, right? I love your energy and beautiful animated face. So thorough and still cheery!

[@ShannonMakes]

Awww, why thank you for such kind and encouraging words 🫶 I'm glad you're enjoying the videos, and the vibe!

[@donnarichards2021]

I am definitely an aspirational sewist with moderate skills. You are an inspiration, not only for your sewing skills but for what I know of your life in general. I love your channel!

[@ShannonMakes]

Wow, thank you!

[@wellnessbyelin]

I am so glad I found your channel! I learned to sew when I was young and have always been interested in historical costuming. I just recently started getting back into it, and I also recently started reading the Outlander series! I haven't started the show yet because I don't want any spoilers, but I love seeing shots of all the beautiful costuming. This is a gorgeous interpretation of Claire's coat! I am also a personal trainer and lover of handstands, so I squealed a little bit when you said you were a circus artist. That was secretly my childhood dream! haha

[@ShannonMakes]

I'm so glad you found my channel too, and welcome aboard!! I highly recommend the books (and honestly, there's an ABSOLUTE KILLER plot twist in the books, somewhere around book 2 or 3, that isn't in the series), so I'm glad that you are enjoying those, and when you're done with the books, you can always start in on the series if it tempts you - it's so much faster to consume the TV show! Very fun to have another fitness and circus enthusiast on the channel, I appear to slowly but surely be growing a small following of them!!

[@elizabethclaiborne6461]

What a great video! I learned a lot of cool stuff, and I’ve been sewing since 1984.

[@ShannonMakes]

Fantastic, glad to hear it!!

[@winonahdrake6931]

I'm planning a similar coat with a belt. Seeing how nice yours looks has made me want to try wide, flat buttons to secure it instead of a buckle. A few next to each other would make it adjustable while looking decorative, like the original, without announcing the function.

[@emilysullivan4031]

I made a coat last summer/fall. It was the first coat I had ever made and I love everything about it, other than the sleeves ended up an inch or two too short. I love the hood on your coat, especially the fur trim! What a great way of reusing a bit of fur!

[@ShannonMakes]

That's fantastic, I'm so glad your coat turned out so well too!! Thank you 🥰🥰

[@hartsarah12]

Add cuffs to help lengthen the sleeves. Might not be idea, but it would definitely work.

[@ShannonMakes]

@@hartsarah12 I'm gonna assume you're talking to Emily, since mine already have cuffs 🤣

[@susanrobertson984]

I have a jacket where the sleeves ended up too short. I cut them off at the elbow and cut new pieces for the lower arms and now the jacket has a “design element” extra seam below the elbow. 😂

[@fawntheresa5338]

I love the added hood! Zippers are amazing at keeping the cold out. Historical sewing became an obsession of mine when I realized the shapes of my body were better suited to the silhouettes from the late 40's, 50's, and early 60's instead of what has been warn since I reached adulthood.

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you, and so true about the zippers! I'm glad that you have found your style and know what looks and silhouettes you feel comfortable and confident in 💪

[@louisejames4759]

I adore 1940's styles and have a few 40's vintage jackets with the boxy shoulders - I love Claires coat! I also just knew you were in Montreal when I saw you standing in the ally way in the snow!!! I am originally from Montreal myself! Beautiful coat you created!

[@ShannonMakes]

So cool!! That's funny that you could pick out the alleys of MTL... I guess they are kinda iconic in their own way :-) Thanks for watching 💙

[@kimyoung1239]

I love watching you make or adapt costumes The coat looks great! I sew but mostly quilt piecing. I've always wanted to sew my own clothing but am very fearful that I'll not do something correctly and have it fall off at the wrong time! The Bridgerton series have really made me more interested in the period. There is also a u-tuber who does a lot of hand sewing which I really admire. She also makes her own clothing from the Victorian Era that I truly love. Keep up the great videos! I love to watch from Texas.

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you!! I think that if you want to start sewing your own clothing, you should go for it! If your fear is a seam coming undone at the wrong moment, maybe start with pyjamas, and that way, if there's a wardrobe malfunction, at least you'll be in the privacy of your own home!! Historical PJs!! I even have a super beginner friendly, step-by-step tutorial on how to both pattern and then sew (in 2 separate videos) a simple bathrobe: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jWewYXaDaNB_mLc

[@dawnjohnson8739]

Wow, that is some amazing sewing! I LOVE that fabric and the color. Love that it served as a blanket and traveled fought at times. I love garments like these. The only thing I came up with for the belt closure is magnets :-). Just kidding. I don’t think they’ll hold up. Why do I watch? Love your creativity and adventuresomeness. It’s fantastic to see what kind of new things you get into :-)

[@ShannonMakes]

You are quite right that those magnets aren't quite strong enough to do the job of closing the belt (and if they were, as someone else pointed out, they risk messing with my phone and credit cards) 🧲🧲 Thanks as always for watching!

[@rgrgeorge]

I love every thing about this coat. I had a fur trimmed hooded dress coat for years and still miss it. I love the detachable hood feature but also love the pleats and the belt. I may have to seriously consider making this coat this summer. I live in Ohio so I should be able to use lighter fabrics like the ones in the series but yours turned out absolutely gorgeous.

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you!! You could definitely do a version of this in a lighter weight fabric (and actually the one from the movie is much lighter too)! 💙💜💙

[@elizabethstreeter2145]

Love the coat it is beautiful and very well made good on you glad you enjoyed making it

[@ShannonMakes]

Thanks so much 😊

[@lindabrotherton1225]

Wow do I love your videos. You are amazing, what great ideas. You are so ingenious ❤

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you so much!! Glad you're enjoying them

[@Sunsetluver1]

Thanks for the explanation on pre shrinking canvas, I’ve seen where it says it can shrink but didn’t know how to preshrink it. I consider myself a beginner sewer , hope I remember this when I need it!😊

[@ShannonMakes]

You're very welcome! 🥰🥰

[@MichelleSMV]

So cool you made this! Coats are so difficult but you did an amazing job with it. I haven’t seen Outlander in so long I honestly didn’t even remember this coat lol. I think I remember the 18th century things way more. It’s also cool that you got into historical sewing through that series. I’m not exactly sure how I got into historical sewing myself. I guess I wanted to learn to sew and I had been watching a lot of historical fashion KZbin for a long time before I even started sewing. And I love old movies. Now I’m starting to determine my favourite decades and stuff and I think I like things pre 1930 haha. I suppose that’s my story really

[@ShannonMakes]

Still a fun story, even if you aren't 100% clear about how you ended up here! 🤪

[@MichelleSMV]

Haha I’m just stoked to be here now and experiencing all this new content! And to be honest this made me wanna make a good winter coat 😂

[@katwitanruna]

Love love love the hood! I’m thinking of adding some to at least one of my full length gowns.

[@ShannonMakes]

Dooo itttt!!

[@katwitanruna]

@@ShannonMakes Okay. I need to fix some shot seams anyway. 😂

[@mmcgartland2095]

❤ I do upcycled or use second hand and seam ripping. This end result is gorgeous. Great idea

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you! 🥰🥰

[@MissPlaced84]

You know the expression "they don't make them like they used to"? That's what I like learning about -- not necessarily the historical fashion/costuming, but the old-fashioned techniques and methods behind sewing and design. I can say though, I love the style of 1940s clothes. That coat is gorgeous. I love the pleats in the back, and the idea to add the magnet is genius. My daughter struggles with long zippers, and living in Ottawa, she needs a long warm coat. I'm definitely going to do something similar.

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you for all the lovely words, and yes, agreed that Ottawa winters will equally need some of these extra-warm touches in the ideal winter coat!!

[@susanbender2953]

Maybe the magnet would work for the belt too. And maybe a closure for the hood for those windy days? I don't think I would ever have the patience to sew but I enjoy all you seamstresses and historical costumers. I love to learn the process. I appreciate the skill. And if I ever have clothing made for myself I will understand the hard work and value. I discovered this world through loving history and seeing Bernadette Banner.

[@ShannonMakes]

That would be a fantastic idea, if the magnets were strong enough. Unfortunately, I don't think they are... I do want the belt to be very firmly held in place, and I don't think the magnets have that much strength (there's not much force or pressure trying to rip the coat open at knee height, but there is significantly more at my waist 🤣)... good idea though!!

[@susanbender2953]

@@ShannonMakes velcro? But maybe you already thought of that. Your coat is quite beautiful.

[@haileybradley6416]

This is lovely! Outlander was also my gateway into historical costuming/dress.

[@ShannonMakes]

Yay!! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@peglamphier4745]

I plan, but then make changes on the fly like you Shannon.... because I'm experienced and because I'm impatient with delay. You are delightful and no apologies needed for not enough video. You did fine without it.... cause you rock!

[@ShannonMakes]

Thank you, Peg, glad you enjoyed the video (even without so much footage of making it)... I hope you'll stick around and check out some of my other videos on the channel, for even more entertainment (and actual sewing)!! 🧵🪡

[@GoblinGhouls]

I have multiple ideas for the closure! So my first thought is a button (though that will lead to some button holes being visible since it needs to be adjustable). You could, however, if you like the look of not having a button on the outside of the belt, add the button to the end of the underside of the belt, then add the button holes to the places you need them. In the warmest conditions no button holes would be visible since your coat would be over less layers. Alternatively - you mentioned you don't like the idea of hooks and eyes because they'll be visible, but what about a hook with a bar made from thread? This would at least feel a little more permanent than the safety pin, but also when you find a better option you could just cut the thread bars off the belt. You could also use a safety pin as the bar instead of thread while you look into other fastening methods (then there's no thread for anyone to see while you find something else).

[@ShannonMakes]

I think these are both good ideas for closures and I admit that i have thought about just committing to one button and a couple button holes, since that'd be pretty low profile. Others have suggested kilt pins (giant, fancy safety pins) as a nod to outlander as well, which is fun thought... so many good ideas!!

[@GoblinGhouls]

@@ShannonMakes A kilt pin is a great idea! They come in so many styles too, so you could change up the way your closure looks if you want to. A thistle one day, a Celtic knot the next...oh! I think I saw a video on the channel NotYourMommasHistory where they made modern day adaptation of a chatelaine. I don't think it's really accurate to an item Claire would have, and it's probably not really necessary since you put in some good sized pockets - but if you feel like having a decorative tool on your belt you could add some additional anachronism.

[@GoblinGhouls]

I've found another temporary and adjustable solution! There are basically large hook and eye closures that I've found to make jeans/trousers that are too large fit. They attach using locking pins on either side (I've seen some that have one or two pins per hook/eye). I think I'm going to buy several because my weight fluctuates and some of my favorite jeans and slacks are too loose again. They seem handy - and potentially customizable with various pins.

[@annebiedenstein395]

I absolutely LOVE these types of projects. I want to incorporate more vintage elements into my wardrobe but I want them to be clothes not costumes; meaning they can't just look pretty, they have to be functional.

[@Anna_the_salty_squirrel]

I have been thinking on doing a coat for my next project and I fell in love with the coat you made

[@ShannonMakes]

Ohh yea, it's true that I didn't even think of headphones (I'm the rare person these days that prefers to sit in silence than listen to something), but that's a solid point! I've thought about the strap adjuster, and it's a pretty high contender because of the adjustability and the low profile (nothing to snag on my sleeves or other parts of the coat and damage the fabric). I think the only things holding me back are (1) the aesthetic is a bit modern, and (2) I don't love the look of the ones that make the belt do a 180, but that's the only real way to cinch the belt with any firmness so it'll stay cinched.

[@armedvsokord]

If you really want to close the top of the lapel on very cold days you could add a button to them. I have a will cost that is very similar to this and I did that. I don't use them very often but when I do I love them. They aren't noticeable most of the time. It's a beautiful coat.

[@angelikaberber3860]

It is just the saddest thing that this pattern is not available…😫 It is such a stunning coat to begin with, and then what you made out of it, it‘s quite ingenius. People would pay a lot for a coat like that I bet. Because it‘s so unique in its functionality plus style..that is very unusual. I would not dare to strive for so much alteration, I‘d just be happy to get ma hands on the original!

[@elisaroos9390]

It looks so cool! Also sooooo inspiring. I dont know if someone already commented on the stiff canvas that the shop gave you, but I think it's called horsehair canvas. As the name implies it has horsehair in one direction which makes it stiffer. It's used a lot in tailoring.

[@ShannonMakes]

Yes, someone already commented, so I'm going to paste my response: there are many different types of tailoring canvas, and while it's certainly not out of the question, this doesn't look like any horsehair canvas I've worked with before 🧐