RUSTY LEATHER JACKET

I made this jacket months ago and just never got around to posting it. Now I've worn it through the rain, at the bar, and spilled coffee and olive oil on it. So it's already thrashed, but leather gets better with age, so here it is. I used the same basic shape as the LETTERMAN JACKET but made some slight alterations, like the curved hem at the waist and a regular convertible collar. I've always loved the iconic aviator jackets Amelia Earhart wore - she was such a cool lady - and wanted to make something reminiscent of them to wear as an everyday basic. I picked up this beautiful rusty brown cowside and found matching leather buttons. The jacket is super simple and has become a regular staple in my wardrobe.

Leather, lining, trims, sketches, pattern.
Sewing the front.Sewing the collar down and starting the lining.I did hand-finished button holes again on this jacket - I really like making them because they're so much stronger and nicer than machine holes. They take a while but it's a good project to work on in front of the TV with a glass of wine (and a good light). You can kind of see the process here: First step is to make a slit and punch a hole where the buttonhole will be and then overcast the whole thing like this:
Then you work around the entire thing with a small cord, covering it with a buttonhole stitch - it makes a tiny raised purl that sits on top of the stitch and looks nice and clean.I actually got careless and totally screwed up on cutting the inside facing of the jacket. It's a little rumply in the front as a result, but not enough to really bother me. It's very true what they say though - always DOUBLE CHECK before cutting. Lesson learned.

Finished jacket: