There are so many fabric options to choose from for our new Spindrift Jacket! We had so much fun making samples of this pattern because each fabric really changed the look. Today I want to go through the samples and talk about how to choose the right fabric.
The following fabric advice applies to all views of Spindrift. All the views work in all the recommended fabrics, so it really depends on the look you are going for. For example, view B (hip-length) will look awesome in a classic denim while View A (long jacket) looks really cute in flannel.
In general, you want a stable medium to heavy weight fabric. Something with some heft and body to it. A medium weight linen could work, but the jacket will look more drapey and less structured.
Denim
Denim is a great choice for this pattern. It is inspired by denim jackets and chore coats so it makes sense in this fabric. We love view B in denim but I also think the longer view would be really cool and the cropped length would be so cute!
Sam and I both absolutely love our denim Spindrifts. This rusty red denim sample has become my go-to jacket!
Sam's sample: 12 oz. non-stretch denim from Blackbird Fabrics
Helen's sample: rust denim from Blackbird Fabrics
Cotton Twill
Cotton twill, much like denim, is a perfect choice for Spindrift. We recommend cotton twill for beginners because it is easy to handle and comes in lighter weights that are easy to sew. A 6-8oz denim is perfect for a confident beginner who wants to tackle Spindrift.
Jani's sample: lived in cotton twill from Blackbird Fabrics
Canvas
Canvas is a great option for Spindrift, and you can get canvas with cool prints on it from Ruby Star Society or even from IKEA. Duck Canvas is quite thick and would work but would be more difficult to sew.
Flannel
Helen's sample: cotton flannel
Flannel is one of my favourite fabrics for Spindrift! I had the longer view (A) in flannel in mind right from the start. It works for all views and is a really nice, soft jacket. Flannel is also a good option for beginners but keep in mind that you may want to do some pattern matching if working with a plaid.
Jani's sample: cotton flannel from Blackbird Fabrics
You can opt to sew details on the bias with a plaid flannel. The back yoke, pockets, and cuffs are good options.
Sam's sample: Adventure Durango Plaid flannel from Robert Kaufman
Corduroy
Corduroy is such a fun Spindrift fabric! The sample we made is actually made from stretch corduroy, but it is very stable so it worked really well. Corduroy is a little more involved to sew because you need to be mindful not to crush the pile and cut all the pieces in the same direction in the nap. It is worth the extra effort though because this jacket is so cozy! I think cord would work great for all three views.
Helen's sample: stretch corduroy from Blackbird Fabrics
Wool
Wool is a cool choice for this jacket. I love how my melton wool version came out! It is really nice and warm and I can see myself getting lots of use out of this one. I would avoid a really thick coating and go for options that are thinner so you can successfully sew the bulky spots.
You don’t have to save this fabric for the longer view! A wool hip-length or cropped view would be so awesome.
Helen's sample: Melton wool from Fabricland
Jacquard
I love when sewing patterns work for jacquards because I have a hard time resisting buying them! This rusty red floral jacquard has been waiting for its moment to shine and it looks so great as a Spindrift Jacket! I love how a print elevates this jacket to a fancier place—I think it makes it a great layering piece for a night out.
Helen's sample: cotton jacquard from Blackbird Fabrics
Not all jacquards are alike, so it depends a lot on the individual fabric, but many of them have enough structure to sew up well into a jacket. These fabrics can be a little bit delicate so watch out for snags and wear them on more special occasions.
Sherpa or Fuzzy Lined Fabrics
We haven’t had a chance to try out a sherpa lined fabric but I am so excited to do it! Provided the fabric isn’t tooo bulky, this is totally an option. I love the idea of a cozy lining on a denim or corduroy Spindrift.
Raincoats
This one is on my list! I am obsessed with the idea of a rain Spindrift Jacket made in nylon or waxed canvas. I think it could really work well! The only thing to consider is that this jacket is unlined, so it is more of an outer shell. It does fit a sweater underneath really well though!
Is there a fabric you want to try using for Spindrift that I didn’t mention? Feel free to reach out an enquire about it! support@helensclosetpatterns.com.
