Prom 2012 for Son

Kids! I know I love mine. And the past week was a labor of love for my son to go to Prom in style. He needed some formal attire, and I didn't want to rent a suit. He will need a suit for another event this summer so we decided that I would make the suit. ALL IN ONE WEEK! That was a totally crazy idea but I really like the results. I had made a suit before in October for Homecoming. The results were, OK. I made everything BUT the tie, IN October and for Prom last week. The results are night and day.

Homecoming October 2011

 I learned a lot of things and I realized that I needed to make some major improvements on the jacket. WOW! Who knew that there is so much padding and fabric stabilizer are in a well tailored jacket. I really took my time and tried to do a lot more homework this time. (I should say I crammed there was much time for taking time.). I realized, only last week, Burda Pattern (B7481) doesn't go by waist size to determine pants size. Pant sizes are determined by seat size, the measurement around your hips.

The jacket, different from homecoming but still a burda pattern from the burdastyle.com site pattern number 6026. I learned there are two different ways to measure a man for the chest measurement (The common way to measure around the chest with the measuring tape going under the armpits, the second way to check is to measure around the chest and arms and subtract seven inches, then pick the larger number of the two for the chest measurement). The length of the jacket is determined by the height of the individual the jacket is being made for, there are three different choices, under 5'9" between 5'10" to 6'2" and then taller than 6'2". All useful information for another suit to make in the future God willing. :-D

I used a McCall's pattern, number 2447, for the shirt and vest. I used this pattern in the past for my hubby so I was very familiar with what to do. I was able to get them done very quickly because I knew the pattern well. The pattern is a classic it has been in their catalog for years. I used the shirts that needed cuff links, and made cuff links out of buttons. This I had seen but I just wouldn't try to it. My hubby isn't a fussy dresser so this gave me a chance to make them.

My son sprang this project on me one week before the prom. I was very nervous, but determined to deliver a great suit for my son. I truly thank the Lord for his help and guidance through this week. There were some mishaps and important things to learn in making this jacket. Like almost leaving two side panels pieces out of the lining. He help me when I was desperate, thank you so much.

Prom April 2012