Tweed jacket with center split back conversion

**Cowher** · 25th July 11, 07:31 AM

Hey all so I got a tweed jacket with a split in the center of the back. Is there a way to convert this to a kilt jacket? What should I do with the split?

**fluter** · 25th July 11, 07:51 AM

Originally Posted by Cowher

Hey all so I got a tweed jacket with a split in the center of the back. Is there a way to convert this to a kilt jacket? What should I do with the split?

Try it without a vent---just pin it up or cut to the target length (plus hem allowance), and pin the vent together. See how it hangs. There's less need at the shorter length.

If it's full-cut, as most US jackets are, then you can probably taper the side seams enough to create side vents---assuming the seam is in the right place.

Model it for us, and you'll get more opinions than you need.

**Lyle1** · 25th July 11, 07:56 AM

I had a jacket cut down for kilt wear, and it was vent-less to begin with. Fluter is right, you really don't need a vent. Even if the jacket is cut full (mine was tapered) and you have it tapered on the side seams, you probably won't need to have vents.

**madmacs** · 25th July 11, 09:43 AM

My tweed conversion was ventless to start with too... I had to remove the buttons on the sleeves and sew those closed though, im guessing the back would be similar...

You might want to look at a little tailoring of the jacket for shape though... I found the fit a little odd without the full drape of the fabric and nipped it about 3/4 of an inch on the back seam since the lining was out anyway...

I would have to say that although 2 vents isnt uncommon on a kilt jacket, and they have been around since at least 1935 based on one of the jackets you can see in the 39 steps, they do look a little funny to me since theyre so short...