Cape Challenge: commercial pattern inspiration

Did you like the Indie patterns list ? Yes? We’ve got plenty more pattern-y goodness for you for the Cape-along – let’s get down to business:

Now, getting down to business – you might have seen my pre-emptive Fibre Finder post – and if not, get thee there now for fabric insipration! The equally most important aspect of making a cape is the pattern. And let me tell you this – there’s a lot out there! We’ve already discussed indie and retro patterns, so today I thought we’d do a preview of commercial company cape patterns, specifically the big 4.

McCalls have two swingin’ options on offer.

M6447

I rather like M6447 as an option – it’s cute and sassy, and offers either snap or button closure option. It would be a great choice for a beginner or for those whose time is tight.

Below is McCalls M6446 – it’s much more swingy, has pockets (a bonus, as I can imagine that weidling a handbags with a cape is hard) and an option for a hood. I’m going to throw this out there though – I’m sure you will agree that this pattern would not be suitable for those who live somewhere windy.

M6446

Butterick 5819 would pair well with fabric that’s not too loosely woven and ideally (especially for views C and D) has two interesting sides.

B5819

Vogue’s offerings certainly cover a wide range. V8776 looks SO WARM, offers multiple finishing lengths, and a fun looking collar:

V8776

I don’t really know if this option, V8796, is a cape or not… but it’s cute and looks like a fun make, especially in a snuggly sweater knit:

V8796

For those who like Vintage Glamour, there’s the Vintage Vogue reproduction V2934. I actually have this pattern and what intrigues me the most about it is a rather interesting dart and the neckline: If you look at the line drawings, you’ll see that the front collar has shaping in the form of a dart, but the back panel doesn’t even have a separate collar pattern piece.

V2934

And finally, Vogue got no points for styling on this option, but I feel that it is my duty to share all pattern options with you – so here is the dubious V1322. Those who are successful in looking past the weirdness of Vogue’s colour choices and over-sized tuxedo look – well, I tip my hat to you.

V1322

Let’s move on to Burda, shall we? I opted to look on Burdastyle.com because it’s so successful.Well, well, well, they actually have a good range! My picks would be their checked cape:

Checked Cape 08/2011 #112

Their fur shrug:

Fur Shrug 10/2012 #133

Their Double Breasted Cape:

Double Breasted Cape 08/2012 #132

And Lindsey #6055:

Lindsey #6055

I hope that this has gotten your creative juices going – good luck choosing a pattern I’m not even sure if my choice is going to stay as my choice now…! The sewalong launches in a week – exciting!