The pattern says it's a 2 hour pattern. Not only can you make this coat in 2 hours but get this...it's reversible! 2-for-1, what a bargain! Plus, I liked the idea of working with fleece (no fraying edges) and figured this would a quick and easy project. And with the leftover fleece, I could make a matching hat.
Long story short, it was neither quick nor easy and definitely not made in 2 hours. I think I spent 2 hours just laying out the fabric and cutting it out. I was so happy to be done with this, I haven't had the fortitude to think about making the hat.
The instructions were terrible. I've been sewing for over 30 years and I had trouble following them. I would hate to think what a beginner would go through. McCalls has since taken this pattern out of print so maybe I'm not the only one who had problems with it.
But I have to say, I do love the fabric and it is extremely warm. I used a regular fleece for the plaid and a polar fleece for the black. The pattern calls for a single button closure but this was a bit oversized so there's enough wrap that I think I will forego the button and just leave as is. I rarely button my coat anyway since I'm usually just going from my car to the house or work. The pattern called for the pockets to be made of broadcloth but I used black flannel instead. I love flannel pockets. They add just that little bit of warmth plus there's something comforting about flannel, it's kind of like giving your hands a little hug whenever you slip them in the pocket.
The coat looks really great! Sometimes I find the patterns are only worth the cut-outs too (because the instructions were probably made in china or some other country where English is a second language!). However, it turned out great!
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