Longing for a coat always starts with imagining a silhouette for my fabric choices.
Making a Cloud Coat in this gorgeous, teal corduroy from MarcyTilton.com has been a delightful project in my studio this past fall. This 3/4 length design is the right scale for the amount of fabric I have to make mine ( a size medium). 
I love opening this Cloud Coat to reveal a beautiful shirting with stripes and birds (also from MarcyTilton.com) for the lining.
And about that Lining…..Sometimes those pieces we’ve loved and saved have outlived the life we imagined them for…. and now become a better fit as a secret just for us inside.
Batting for Softness- I add this mid-loft batting across the top of the coat back(picture a yoke layer inside), and down the front: as an added layer in the facings. This cotton bias collar also has a double layer of batting for warmth too. Using a slick raincoat fabric for sleeve linings allows the jacket to slide on and off easily too.
Finishing the Cloud Coat with a jumbo black button, a tie and a separating zipper, hand stitched in place, just suits my style.
Ready to Think about YOUR New Year?
Design Outside the Lines Retreats in 2026
The dates and guest teachers are set with the links below. Signups and online deposits are accepted there. All experience levels are welcome. COME, join me and these accomplished guest teachers to celebrate and grow your work this year!
Ashland, OREGON • March 22-26, 2026: (Sun-Thurs) Building your design skills & sewing techniques for every level & Handstitching for the heart.
Guest Teacher: Mary Glenn
Taos, New Mexico • Sept.20-25, 2026 (Sun-Fri) Surface Design techniques and printing your own fabric, Machine and Handsew Collage inspired by this beautiful setting. Guest teacher: Cheryl Rezendes
Ashland, OR • Oct 22-26, 2026- (Thurs-Mon) Couture to Handsewing- Design focus on elevating your style and technical skills for making outer garments.
Guest Teacher: Katherine Tilton
We look forward to welcoming you to MAKE with us in these memorable creative studio experiences! Diane