Jacket Conversion, how difficult?

[Kerr the Walker]

I measured to right around the bottom of the fell on the kilt. The distance from the current hem of the jacket to the bottom of the fell is how much to cut off. I kind of eyeballed the cut-away for the sporran on the front on one side then traced it onto a piece of paper so the other side would match.

Before you cut, fold up the hem of the jacket to where you meansured to and pin it up there. Try it on with the kilt to see generally how it'll look. I'm a big fan of "measure twice, cut once."

I looked at a TON of pictures here on Xmarks and elsewhere to get an idea of what the final product should be before I started cutting.

I looked at the sticky, and I have to say, it looks scary. I didn't notice any reference to measurements or anything like that? How do you determine where to cut the jacket? Is there a generic amount to be removed for a given size jacket, or does it vary from jacket to jacket. If it must be measured specifically, where do you make the measurements to?

I'm trying to get my nerve up for this, and am planning to head out thrift shop hunting this weekend. The lack of measurements makes me nervous though. I've done some carpentry work, assisting my father and father-in-law before, and really like the fact that with specific measurements, things always fit together. As long as you measure and cut correctly, it will fit. I guess I like that because it's not something I do all the time.

I'm just terribly nervous that I'll screw something up I think. I guess this is the way it goes though, when you don't have the money to spend, you've got to make do with what you can. Still nervous about the prospect though.


Casey

[fluter]

I measured to right around the bottom of the fell on the kilt. The distance from the current hem of the jacket to the bottom of the fell is how much to cut off.

Alternatively, if the sleeves' length fits you, aim for the jacket hem to be from the end of the sleeves to about 2 inches above them.

Reading over the many threads on conversions, I find a preference for

1. Tweeds are pretty forgiving of modifications and apprentice seamsters.
2. Patch pockets are easier to remove or move gracefully; but "regular" slit pockets may work. Either one may need to be shortened.
3. Side vents seem to look better than center vents when shortened. No vent works fine on a kilt-length jacket.


I try to eyeball the pockets in relation to the sleeves and projected hem length, especially slit pockets. I think there is a proper term of art for "slit pocket," but I don't remember it.