The Twig + Tale family of vest patterns is growing - please say hello to the Trailblazer Vest!
A new pattern release is always a happy occasion, but this time we are particularly excited to be offering our first men's garment pattern! Often the men in our lives are overlooked when it comes to handmade clothing, but now Twig + Tale has them covered too. Time to make cosy vests for everyone!
The Men's Trailblazer Vest features curved seams and a back yoke for a great fit and professional-looking finish, a full zip front, a collar for keeping out the wind, and inseam pockets for warming hands. Other options include a curved, dropped hem or a straight hem, a contrast shoulder detail, and a wind flap with snaps or buttons. Combine options to create the perfect, unique vest for your loved one.
Have you ever felt intimidated by sewing zippers? It's not as complicated as it may seem - we promise! The Trailblazer tutorial provides clear, simple instructions for inserting a zipper, with tips for achieving a great-looking result. This project is perfect for overcoming zipper-phobia - give it a try, and you'll be sewing zippers confidently in no time!
Twig + Tale's testers came up with an amazing array of different looks from the Trailblazer pattern. Their creativity when it comes to fabric choices, combining pattern options, and adding personalized details is always inspiring!
The optional wind flap adds some extra warmth to the vest, and gives a polished and professional look. Snaps or buttons may be added to close the wind flap.
The seams on the Trailblazer are beautifully-shaped. We love how the extra topstitching highlights the subtle curve of the yoke seam on this oilskin vest. The result is both rugged and refined.
The yoke and shoulder details also work well for adding contrasting details. Here, the back yoke creates an interesting design feature with colour-blocking and quilting.
We think you will love the method used in the pattern for creating sleek, hidden inseam pockets that are perfectly-positioned in the front seams of the vest. Line them in a cosy fabric like flannel or sherpa to keep hands extra toasty.
Nothing says cosy and warm quite like a puffer vest! The Trailblazer pattern includes instructions for adding batting to make an insulated puffer-style vest. Or, you could try upcycling a sleeping bag, like the vest pictured here! For more puffer inspiration, have a look at this blog post.
The Men's Trailblazer pattern covers a wide range of sizes, from a 32" to a 60" chest. The layered pdf pattern allows you to select just the size(s) you would like to print, and includes both A4 and A0 files. The tutorial is clear and easy to follow, with video tutorials to guide you through sewing your vest from start to finish.
We are so pleased to release the Trailblazer Vest for Men, and look forward to seeing your projects! But stay tuned, because we have more Trailblazer news coming very soon...
Did you know that the Twig + Tale blog is home to a number of tutorials for customizing your Trailblazer Vest? Read more here:
- Inspiration - Puffer-style Trailblazer Vest
- How to add a Concealed Lining Pocket
- How to add a Detachable Hood to the Trailblazer Vest
~Images by Jocelyn Buggie, Kelly Curteis, Jess Ross, Geneviève Ouellet, Rachel Osterday, Emily Malsam, Sarah Morris, and Sarah Connell ~
