Choosing a Pattern for the Precious Fabric Challenge

There’s something so exciting about pairing a precious fabric with just the right pattern. For this year’s Precious Fabric Challenge, I’m sharing my process for narrowing down options and choosing a style that really lets the fabric shine. My YouTube members will get the final vote on which jacket I’ll sew, but I’d love to hear your ideas too!  Read on or watch here:

The Fabric That Started It All

Previously, I introduced the fabric I’ll be using.  It's a gorgeous Boden-esque wool that I picked up back in May.  It’s a double-sided piece: one side is a vibrant blue with an red-orange geometric design, and the reverse is a rich, warm red-orange (my favorite!). I knew right away that this fabric deserved to be turned into something special.

When I shop for fabric, I usually stick to my Color Guru palette (I’m a Copper Spring). It keeps me focused, helps prevent impulse buys, and ensures everything I bring home will work with my existing wardrobe. That tip alone has been a game changer in my sewing practice—don’t forget you can get your own palette done and save 10% with the code TOMKATCOLOR*.

Shopping for Inspiration

When I don’t have a pattern in mind, I head online for inspiration. Sometimes I look at brands I shop from, and other times I peek at designer collections just for silhouette ideas. For this project, I wasn’t trying to copy a specific look—I just wanted to see which shapes would complement this bold wool.

Three jacket styles kept popping up:

• Chore jackets / barn coats – I love their structure and classic collar.
• Bomber jackets – A timeless style that feels fresh and wearable.
• Cropped trench jackets – Trendy but still classic, with just enough detail.

Pattern Options I’m Considering

Once I narrowed down the silhouettes, I went digging in my pattern stash (and a few online shops). Here’s what I’m considering:

Chore Jacket Options

• Pattern Emporium Downtown Jacket*– Already in my collection, unlined, and a great canvas for this fabric.
• Seamwork Parker Jacket*  – Another unlined option that could really work.
• Closet Core Sienna Maker Jacket – I’d simplify the details for this busy fabric, but it’s a strong contender.

Bomber Jacket Options

• Cashmerette Kimball Bomber* – A fun, unlined bomber that would let both sides of the fabric peek through. This pattern is available through their club.
• Itch to Stitch Causeway* – A great design, though it’s lined, which makes me pause since I want to showcase both sides of the wool.

Cropped Trench Options

• Itch to Stitch Acari *(cropped) – Cropping would require pocket adjustments, but I love the idea.
• Any cropped trench pattern – Ideally, one with lapels or details I could cut from the reverse side for contrast.

Playing with Both Sides of the Fabric

One of the unique aspects of this wool is the reversible colorway. I don’t want the jacket to be fully reversible (because I want solid pockets and fewer construction headaches), but I do want to highlight the second side. A contrast collar, lapel, welt pocket, or cuff would be a fun way to show both sides without the design getting too busy.

Help Me Decide!

So, what do you think? Should I go for a chore jacket, bomber jacket, or cropped trench? And is there a pattern you love that I haven’t mentioned yet? Contact me with your suggestions—I always get the best ideas from this community!

If you’d like to join the fun behind-the-scenes, check out the YouTube Membership where the final vote will happen. And don’t forget to check my Resources page for coupon codes and links to my favorite fabric shops.

*_{Affiliate links included—thank you for supporting my work! No extra cost to you, but I may earn a commission. Offers may change.}