Ultra versatile, you can make it as a classic jacket that will never go out of style, or try the on-trend prairie collar for Ganni-esque vibes. Sonny can be made as a casual unlined jacket, but if you do want to line it, we have created a separate lining add-on PDF pattern for a polished inside finish.
Read on to find out more about Sonny...
THE PATTERN DESIGN
One of the things we love the best about Sonny is how different it can look depending on which version you make and what fabric you use. You can go utility style with a classic pointed collar, or make a designer-style jacket with the on-trend frill prairie collar. Let's take a look at Sonny's details:
- Boxy fit bodice with drop shoulders and princess seams creating gentle shaping at the bust
- Choice of pointed collar or oversized frill collar
- Separate yokes, forward shoulder seams and front panels
- Optional chest pockets and flaps
- Easy-to-sew straight sleeves
- Choice of hip-length or cropped hemlines
- Mock flat felled seams create a durable finish
The Sonny lining add-on pattern includes bodice and sleeve lining pattern pieces to compliment all versions of the Sonny jacket, as well as a hanging loop so you can display your gorgeous creation with pride.
SIZING AND FORMATS
Both the Sonny jacket and lining are available in sizes UK 6-34 / US 2-30 / EUR 34-62. The full size range is included in each pattern. Sizes UK 6-16 and 18-34 are created and graded for a different set of proportions, so you will notice there is more shaping on the larger pattern sizes to account for a fuller bust.
The Sonny jacket pattern is available either printed or PDF, and the lining add-on is available as a PDF download only.
Order the Sonny jacket printed sewing pattern and we'll send you a beautiful package in the post, with a full-colour instruction booklet. Made in the UK, our patterns are printed on durable paper which you can use again and again without it tearing or scrunching up.
The Sonny lining add-on pattern and Sonny jacket are available as an instant PDF download. You'll get an email straight after purchase with a PDF to either print and assemble at home on A4 or Letter size paper or send to a copyshop or pattern printer to print full scale on A0. Need further help? Read our guide to using PDFs.
Whichever format you choose, the pattern will be accompanied by our award-winning instructions with step-by-step colour photos to guide you through the project. The pattern pieces themselves are clearly labelled so you can see which seam is which and how they go together.
FABRICS & SUPPLIES
Sonny works best with medium- to heavy-weight fabrics that hold their shape. Think denim, twill, corduroy, jacquard or wool.
If you're making the prairie collar version with collar frill, make sure the fabric is light enough to gather - ideally you will be gathering up two layers of frill fabric at once, but if the fabric is struggling you could sew gather stitches on each layer separately. Another option is to use a different fabric for the collar frill, allowing you to experiment with different textures and patterns.
If you're lining your jacket using the Sonny add-on pattern, use slippery lining fabrics such as cupro (Bemberg), viscose (rayon), acetate or polyester lining. Alternatively, you can line the sleeves in lining fabric and use a cotton lawn, viscose or teddy/sherpa fleece for the bodice lining.
We know some makers are planning to make Sonny as a blouse instead of a jacket - we are excited to see it! If you want to try this, use something like a cotton lawn or even a more drapey viscose, lengthen the pattern, and add an elastic channel to the ends of the sleeves.
TIPS & TUTORIALS
We have labelled Sonny as suitable for "confident beginners". While making a jacket may seem daunting, it's actually just a series of relatively simple steps. The trickiest bit is sewing buttonholes, but we have lots of tips for that! You will be supported all the way with our clear instructions, and if there are any techniques you aren't sure about, you'll find lots of extra help on a dedicated space on the blog.
If you're yet to line any outerwear on your sewing journey, the Sonny lining add-on is the perfect place to start. We did a lot of research and development to hone our instructions and you'll be amazed at the final result!
We are looking forward to seeing your Sonny jackets - both in-progress shots and finished makes. Don't forget to tag us on Instagram
@TillyButtons using the hashtag
#SewingSonny so we can swoon over what you're making. Happy sewing!
*****
Models: Averil de Souza & Sophie Prat
Photographer: Jane Looker
MUAH: Simone @ The Bridal Stylists
Samples: Sewn by Deborah Wilkins
Blue denim - Minerva
Corduroy - Lullabee Fabrics
