In my job as Threads' seamstress, and in my years as a custom clothier, I've sewn many different textiles. Some are straightforward to work with, and others have idiosyncrasies that I discover along the way. Then I solve problems by trial and error. A recent assignment was the Lupin jacket, by Deer and Doe (Deer-and-Doe.com), a waist-length blouson style with wide lapels and double-welt pockets (See Threads no. 190, "Pattern Review"). The fabric: a caramel-colored synthetic leather. Although the textile was soft and lightweight enough to gather at the waistband and cuffs, it was difficult to press into shape elsewhere. Here are a few tricks I used to turn this material into a versatile jacket, without special tools or supplies.
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