Made By Lex

Refitting a Leather Jacket

July 1, 2010 7:36 am

I’ve ALWAYS wanted a cool leather jacket. Always. But I could never bring myself to pay for one. So while I was out thrifting, I got this leather jacket at the thrift store for $7. I loved the look of the leather, the great zippers and the overall shape.(It had sleeves. I just cut them off before I took the pictures. oops!) It was in great condition, but it was a little too big. So I thought I’d try  to make it my size! For those of you that are freaking out right now, thinking leather is hard to work with- IT”S NOT! It doesn’t even move like a cotton or stretch. I’m telling you- DO NOT BE AFRAID!!

Before you begin:

I recommend using a heavy needle. They make leather needles, but I actually used a denim needle because it’s what I had. I have a button that automatically changes my tension and stitching for leather. ( I know. Thank you Husqvarna:) ) But you can check your machine for the recommendations.

Also, good leather jackets also have a lining. Don’t let that intimidate you! All you have to do is remember that whatever you do to the leather, do to the lining. It’s just on the inside.

Let us begin…

First what I did is cut off the sleeves at the seam. I needed to bring the shoulder line in.

To tell where you want the shoulder seams, you can by either try it on or use a dress form. When you figure out where you want it to be, mark it with chalk. Then trim to the new line.

Now, my sides also needed to be taken in to give it a little more shape and make it not so boxy.

I detached the jacket at the side seams, leather and lining.  I measured how much I wanted to bring it in and I stitched the leather then the lining to make it the right size.

After that step, I wanted to add some details. At the front of mine I decided to add some texture to it by stitching some lines. I just marked with chalk where I wanted to stitch, then sewed right on top of my markings.

I really love the way this detail came out.

Ok, now for my final step, reattaching the sleeve. With all your alterations, the sleeve might be too big now. You could either add a little ruching at the top to make it puff sleeves, or take the sleeve in. I wanted a really classic look, so I decided to take the sleeve in an inch. I detached it at the underarm seam, then took it in. Then all you need to do is reattach your jacket and lining.

And it’s ready to wear!

Here’s a closeup of the front detail.

I love when the sleeves are rolled up.

I’m so happy with this jacket! I can’t believe I found it for $7! I hope you’re inspired to do your own leather reinvention! If any of the details were a little confusing, just send me an email and I can explain anything in more length!

I already sold one of the long skirts and only have a couple left, so if you were thinking about getting one- hurry up to my etsy shop!

I also added a striped maxi dress!

Tags: etsy, leather, leather jacket, refashion, repurpose
Posted in refashions, women's clothing | 10 Comments »