How to Make Your Own Chore Coat: A DIY Tutorial

My list of DIY projects is endless. Sure, I could buy the things on my wardrobe wishlist. But I find that way less gratifying and way more wasteful. Sewing clothes myself means I can customize fit, fabrics, colors, buttons, thread, and everything else. I make mistakes, but that just adds to the garment’s story.

On my list of projects since the very beginning of my sewing journey has been a sturdy chore coat. All classic workwear, like the best double knee pants, are sturdy, perfect for layering, and ideal for transitional seasons. I finally made time to sew not one, but two jackets this year—one for me, one for my husband. Below, I’ve shared steps and resources for making your own, with the hope of demystifying the process.

If I can do it, you can too.


Materials List

  • Sewing machine
  • Fabric shears (not to be used on your paper pattern)
  • Regular scissors (for cutting out your pattern)
  • Rotary cutter (optional, but it’ll make your life easier)
  • Seam ripper
  • Fabric, at least 1.5-2.5 yards
  • Bias binding (optional for encasing your seams)
  • Buttons, 5-8
  • Polyester thread
  • Chalk or felt tip pen
  • Masking tape (for labeling)
  • Pins
  • Iron

How to Make Your Own Chore Coat

Source: https://www.fieldmag.com/articles/how-to-make-diy-chore-coat