Wiksten Haori Jacket

I have had this pattern for some time and I am probably the last person standing to finally get around to making it!

These are the fabrics that I chose to use. The left is a glorious, textural, Japanese, azumino momen fabric that I purchased from Fabric&Art on Etsy. The owner, Michelle, offers a varied selection of beautiful fabric finds from around the world. Thisfabric was just perfect for this jacket! The folks at Shibori Dragon, who offer fat quarters of azumino momen in many colors, explain just what this luscious fabric is:

”...Azumino-momen fabrics are piece-dyed in the Azumino district of Japan (momen means cotton) hence the name Azumino-momen.  Before the pieces are dyed, the fabrics go through a process which creates a natural textured finish that gives the fabric a distinctive feel even after washing.  This fabric is a little heavier that regular quilting cottons...”

The fabric on the right was purchased 2-3 years ago from Anne Dawson at The Quilters Studio on Lopez Island. It is a Yoko Saito design from Lecien Fabrics. I fell in love with it, but had no idea what I would do with it...but it was a perfect pairing! 

Both fabrics are beautifully textured and resulted in a jacket that will be especially perfect in Spring and Fall, as well as for our often cool summer mornings.

The pattern itself is beautifully produced, the step-by-step instruction booklet makes putting the jacket together a breeze. This is a pattern that could be made without a lining as a lighter weight summery jacket. The sizing is generous. I wanted a “cuddle factor” so  my result was perfect. If I make a single jacket next time I will probably size down. Wiksten offers finished dimensions for their patterns which I really appreciate.

The jacket is designed for three lengths; short, mid-length, and long. I chose the mid-length, but as I sewed I wondered if perhaps I should have chosen the longest version. Thankfully, I chose correctly. I am vertically challenged at 5’ 4” (and shrinking!) and the long version would have been much too long on my frame.

With the collar turned up...

Just a tiny bit of Sashiko on the pockets in a Superior Brands variegated Kim Tut thread...                                   ....and yes, I do still need to “erase” a few chalk marks!

I could almost wear it inside out! 

I am so pleased with this make. I am adding the new, simple, Wiksten Shift pattern to my “must make” list now. The sizing for Wiksten are inclusive and designed for “real” sizes.