The Metra Blazer

I very much consider myself a beginner when it comes to making garments and I honestly didn't think I could pull off making a semi-fitted blazer. But when Love Notions published the Metra Blazer and I started seeing all the reviews and tester versions, I thought to myself maybe I could make myself one.

Love Notions patterns are extremely well written, and there's always a lot of support both in the Facebook group and from their brand ambassadors and affiliates. An added bonus was that the blazer is made in a stable knit so a little more forgiving when it comes to fit. So I took the plunge and I'm so glad I did!

The scuba fabric I chose to use is pretty busy so the details are a little difficult to see (which isn't a bad thing given my skills!). I love the length, the shawl collar and the clever welt pockets.

The back has a centre seam with a bit of shaping. I didn't bother to try any print matching and I'm a little bit annoyed with the half flower in the centre of my back, but it's really not a huge deal.

By a really happy accident, I already had matching pants in my closet. The colour of the pants matches the centre of the flowers almost exactly. I think this will look pretty good with a white blouse this Spring.

I wouldn't say this was an easy make - it was definitely a little more involved than most of my projects. But it wasn't difficult either. And it was surprisingly quick to put together. I probably spent only about 4 hours sewing my new blazer (and that included removing the stitching from a sleeve I had sewn inside out).

The details:

• Pattern: The Metra Blazer by Love Notions
• Size: XL with full bust
• Fabrics: Scuba from Minerva.com

I will definitely be making more! My new blazer is really comfortable and although I'll be working from home for the foreseeable future, I do like to feel put together and look good on video calls.