The Tania Coatigan: A Fetching Blazer Alternative

The Tania Coatigan is an open-front, relaxed-fit, casual, unlined blazer that can be worn as a cardigan or jacket! It has diagonal seaming in both the front and back, in-seam pockets, and a notched collar that can stand up or fold down. It can also be made, as this one is, with contrasting fabrics. No matter the season or the occasion, the Tania Coatigan is precisely what you need.

Bonnie made this jacket using two of our new Cady Stretch Suitings imported from Italy. Comprised mainly of polyester, this fabric has a nice sturdy feel with a bit of stretch, and a smooth finish. She used the Bordeaux and Steel Grey for this Coatigan, but here, in the heart of UM Grizzly territory, we like to call these colors maroon and dark grey! Though this pattern is designed to be open in the front, buttons or a zipper (in corresponding team colors of course!) can certainly be added. Never before has team spirit looked so stylish!

An excellent pattern for beginners, Bonnie describes this pattern as both “fun to sew” and having “a great design”. As per usual, Jalie’s instructions are clear and the pattern itself is drafted well. What’s more the fabric options for this design are virtually limitless. Make it in a wool or wool blend, an eye-catching ponte, a heavyweight sweater knit, a drape-y summertime linen or, copy Bonnie, and use one of our colorful Cadys! If you do decide to work with the Cady, be sure to use a pressing cloth and grade your seams.

While, at its core, a well designed pattern, the Tania throws a few curveballs.

First, the pattern and directions are all semi-erratically crammed onto one large page. So, it’s a good idea to take your time and thoroughly read through everything prior to any cutting.

Next, and rather interestingly, some of the pattern pieces need to be pieced together, and the sleeve pattern piece (which you’ll need two of) must be cut on a fold. So take care to identify these quirks before delving in too deep.This pattern also runs large, so check the finished measurements ahead of time in case you want to size down, and remember that this pattern calls for 3/8″ seam allowances.

Lastly, though depicted on the pattern’s front, the Tania does not provide you with a yardage break-down for color-blocking. Bonnie chose to use two different colors, but deducing how much fabric was needed of each color took a bit of trial and error. In the end, to make a Size 14/16, she used around 1 and 1/2 yards of the Bordeaux Cady and 3/4 of a yard of the Steel Grey. However, these amounts are subject to change depending on your color-blocking preference, size, height, desired fit, and etc. So, if it is convenient, we suggest acquiring and reading through the pattern prior to purchasing fabric.

Wondering why there’s only one picture of the Tania Coatigan? Because we want you to see yourself in it! The Confident Stitch is auctioning off this Coatigan at our Anniversary Party on Saturday, December 7th, 2019 from 6pm-9pm. Stop by the store for food, beverages, a raffle, and more!