Quilted jackets have captured the hearts of the modern sewing world…and rightfully so, with their cosiness and charm! So, we’re sharing everything you need to know to create your own DIY quilted jacket: what materials and patterns to use, helpful tips, and more, in this Twig + Tale Quilted Jacket guide.
How can I create my own quilted coat?
Creating a quilt coat is much easier than you might expect! While there’s endless room for creativity with piecing, quilting, applique, and more, there are lots of beginner-friendly ways to approach these garments, which allow you to build your skills over time. Read below for more on this complete DIY quilted jacket series!
What are the best materials for making a quilt coat?
We’ve created a complete guide to quilted jacket materials here, including advice on picking a pre-quilted material, upcycling options, and options for quilting your own material, too. What’s more, we’ve explored more about using vintage quilts as well - from the ethics of using vintage quilts in sewing projects to some practical tips for using vintage quilts for your jacket project.
What patterns work well for quilted jackets?
Most coat patterns can technically be used for quilted jackets - we’ve seen many made over time by hacking patterns like Pixie and Grove. However, arguably, the best approach is to use a pattern that’s been designed just for quilted jackets, and features details that help the quilted materials to shine. That’s why we created the Loft Quilted Jacket - its simple shape, boxy fit, and bound finish make it perfect for nearly any quilted material you can imagine!
How do I quilt my own material?
There are lots of ways to approach making your own quilted material - we’ve shared all about straight-line quilting here and in the Loft Quilted Jacket pattern. Or, if you’d like some inspiration for other types of quilting to consider, we’ve shared an overview of different quilting methods as well!
What are some helpful tips to keep in mind when creating a quilted jacket?
Sewing quilted materials is often quite simple, but here are a few helpful tips to make your project go as smoothly as possible.
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Make sure you have plenty of thread to start, especially if you are quilting your own material. You’ll likely go through it much quicker than you expect, and having to stop mid-project to pick up more is always a bummer!
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Similarly, if you plan to bind your unlined jacket seams, make or buy plenty of bias tape. Depending on just how you plan to finish all your seams, the amount of bias tape you will need can vary widely, so it’s best to prepare extra. Want to make your own? We show you how here!
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Baste your materials together prior to cutting out your pattern pieces. Depending on how densely your material is quilted (or if it is stuffed rather than batted) cutting straight into the materials can lead to edges that are difficult to manage. It can be best to trace your pattern pieces onto the material first; sewing a basting stitch about ¼” (6mm) inside the marked line; and then cut to keep your edges clean.
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Consider using clips instead of pins. The thickness of quilted materials can make using pins to hold your project challenging, so consider keeping a few clips on hand instead. Purpose-made sewing clips are wonderful, of course, but you can consider cheaper or more-convenient options like clothespins or binder clips too.
Curious about the origins of quilted clothes?
We were, too - so as a team we took a deep dive into the subject in this post on the history of quilted clothing.
Here's the complete T+T Quilted Jacket Guide, with all our quilting resources at a glance!
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Want a pattern that guides you every step of the way? Check out the Loft Quilted Jacket here!
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Need help selecting the perfect materials? Here’s a closer look at the wide variety available
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Making your own quilted fabrics can be such a treat - it’s why we’ve provided an overview of different quilting types as well as a look at how to quilt your own materials
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Wondering about using vintage quilts for coats? Explore the ethics here, and find some practical tips for working with vintage quilts
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If you’re as history-curious as we are, come take a look at the history of quilted clothing around the world
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Take your quilt project to the next level with different piecing methods, such as foundation paper piecing or crumb quilting
- Add quilt-inspired details to a variety of clothing + accessory projects with this scrappy sewing guide
