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Aleks' Abloom Haori Jacket

Woman in floral jacket

A Design Challenge – an architect’s dream. What could we make from one yard of the new 108” wide fabrics designed by Melody Miller for Ruby Star Society? The fabric is absolutely gorgeous with its large florals, bright colors, and beautiful hand.

Pattern: Wiksten Haori Jacket
Size Made: Small
Fabric: Beam Wideback in Shell
Notions: Fusible interfacing; matching thread
Modifications: Combined pockets, narrowed collar

Woman in floral jacket

With the extra-wide 108” width, what could I create that would make the best use of this fabric? As I let the ideas percolate, I kept thinking of Japanese jackets and the beautiful floral fabric that they are often created with. With only one yard in length, I selected the Wiksten Haori Jacket pattern, which is more like a field jacket. (Please note that the Haori Jacket is not longer available in print, but a PDF can be purchased directly from Wiksten).

Close up of floral jacket


Since the fabric is wide enough for a quilt back, I entertained the idea of creating the jacket as a quilt, using the fabric as the front of the jacket. But I didn’t want a jacket that heavy or bulky. Flannel came to mind, as I oftentimes use flannel for the backs of the baby quilts I make. I had a beautiful piece of olive green that was perfect. Pink and green – love it!

Detail of floral jacket

With this pattern, you can choose small or large pockets. I used both, overlapping one another for some visual interest and function. I also wanted a narrower collar, so I only cut the top piece of the floral fabric and did not cut a piece of flannel for the back. I cut two pieces of lightweight fusible interfacing half the width of the original collar top piece and ironed it to the two collar top pieces. I then folded the top piece of the collar in half to make it narrower and followed the remaining pattern instructions.

Jacket pocket detail

The pattern is super easy to make, and I love the way it fits and the feel of the fabric. The only question is whether to save it for when COVID-19 is over and we can comfortably go out again, or to wear it now as a cozy, comfy, lounge jacket at home. Maybe both…?

Woman in floral jacket

Comments on this post (3)

  • Feb 23, 2021

    It’s magnificent.

    — Sam Spigos

  • Feb 13, 2021

    That’s brilliant!

    — Jenifer

  • Feb 13, 2021

    Can you post or share an image of the interior? I’d love to see the green flannel contrast with the pattern. Thanks!

    — Nichole

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