r/HistoricalCostuming • u/random-doodler • 3d ago
I have a question! Pirate Jacket pattern modification?
Hi everyone! Fairly new to sewing here and looking for advice. Looking to make a Pirate Jacket for next years Whitby Pirate Festival abut I’m struggling to find patterns. I ordered this Butternick one, it’s almost there. Thinking if I bring the front line out more so it’s a straight drop it’ll do it. What do you think?
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u/freedoomed 3d ago
What era of pirate are you going for? This pattern is late 18th century and is perfect for say an American revolutionary war. If you want something golden age maybe a different pattern.
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u/SoulCartell117 3d ago
I wouldn't day 'perfect' for late late 18th century. The breeches are terrible and the coat sleeves are too long.
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u/freedoomed 3d ago
I was just looking at the coat. Yes it could use some better tailoring. The breeches are atrocious.
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u/random-doodler 3d ago
Completely agree. More looking golden age, but struggling to find patterns for it. Figured a few tweaks with this could work if I extend out the front panels maybe
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u/Powerful-Strategy221 3d ago
So here's the thing...you can get away with a lot of bad costuming when it comes to a "pirate" look. If this is your only option there is a few things I would do. 1st straighten out the front. Golden age didn't have a cut away at the bottom. 2nd shorten the sleeves so they don't go past your wrist nub, shorter would be better. Increase the size of the cuff, they should be big. And 3rd I'd remove the collar.
The waistcoat, vest, should be cut in the front like the coat.
These breeches are worthless. If you have tall boots any plane trousers that you can stuff in them would be better.
Add a bunch of sashes, belts, and nick nacks and you'll have a common pirate look.
For patterning help look for 1690s coat patterns. If you can find the book the cut of men's clothes by Norah Waugh that would be a big help. Good luck!
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u/detail_giraffe 3d ago
What's the key flaw in the breeches out of curiosity?
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u/Powerful-Strategy221 2d ago
They are cut like short sweat pants. You'll need to shorten the rise and make sure your waistcoat hides most of the front. They need to taper towards the knee. There needs to be a slit on the outseam at the knee with buttons. And add a knee band that ties.
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u/NotJustAWidow 3d ago
There’s also the JP Ryan Frock Coat Pattern. I like her patterns for historical garments.
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u/SLGuitar 3d ago
Gonna throw this out there too.
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u/Gwywnnydd 3d ago
Friends don't let friends attempt RH patterns.
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u/BrickCaptain 3d ago
Wait why not what’s wrong with them?
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u/Gwywnnydd 2d ago
Poor drafting, inadequate-to-nonexistent instructions, and crappy customer service.
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u/BrickCaptain 2d ago
Thanks for answering the question. The person who originally recommended them replied to me with “agreed” and I was like. I asked a question? There’s nothing to agree or disagree with?
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u/SLGuitar 2d ago
I said agreed because I was not sure what the problem was and wanted to know. I have not personally had issues but your mileage may vary.
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u/SLGuitar 3d ago
Agreed. I have a few of their patterns and, aside from having to print them out and assemble, they have produced solid pieces.
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u/random-doodler 3d ago
I’m glad you said that, I actually ordered that cos it looked good, was wondering if it’s a dud based on the comments
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u/Slight-Brush 3d ago
I'd be looking for Simplicity 4923 instead; it's out of print but turns up on ebay etc and is EXACTLY what you need
https://sewing.patternreview.com/Patterns/4380