I was immediately intrigued when Alina posted a sneak peak of the Fulton Sweater Blazer on Instagram a couple weeks ago. I’ve been admiring a J. Crew sweater blazer for at least two months now but wasn’t about to spend $150 on something I knew I could make (and might actually fit well)!

“The Fulton Sweater Blazer is an open-front knit jacket with a slimming relaxed fit. Polished, yet comfortable, this layering piece will instantly escalate casual outfits while adding a layer of warmth as you transition to and from seasons.” I think the hardest part of this pattern is choosing the correct fabric. The pattern calls for a stable knit with minimal vertical stretch. You want something somewhat weighty for warmth and drape but not too thick because the collar will be a challenge with a super thick fabric.

For my test I went with the Arietta Ponte de Roma from Robert Kaufman because I had it in my stash. It’s a fabric I’ve worked with a couple times and it sews nicely but it is heavy which is not ideal for this pattern. I’m happy with how this blazer turned out and I think it will gets lots of wear but I wouldn’t recommend using this fabric. I just got a wool blend double knit in the mail which isn’t too thick and feels much lighter-weight and I’m planning to use that for another version of this pattern.

I made view A which is a hip-length blazer though it is a bit long on me. This is partly the weight of the fabric but also because I didn’t remove any length from the pattern pieces. I like that this sweater covers my bum, especially as we’re getting into colder temps here in New England, but I think I’d take two inches off the next time I make the shorter view.

I decided to make the longer sleeves on this version, again because it’s getting cold here, but I would also take some length from the sleeves in the future. Again, this has nothing to do with Alina’s drafting; they’re predictable changes for me. I love the cuffed look and the contrasting facing is a fun detail for someone who tends to make pretty classic clothing.

All in all, everything came together very easily for me on this test. The instructions are clear and the only challenging technique is the collar. Alina’s instructions are really helpful and it’s one of those times where you just need to take it slow, follow the steps, and be precise. She’s added even more detail to this part of the instructions since the pattern test and I think it makes this step possible for a confident beginner!

Since I made my version, Alina has removed two inches of ease from the hips on the pattern which makes for a slightly slimmer fit. I’m looking forward to this in my next version. Combined with a less heavy fabric I think it will give an even more polished look to this already fantastic pattern!

I think the Fulton will be a great layering piece this fall and winter. It’s got the coziness of a cardigan but feels stylish and put together! I’m looking forward to adding another one to my wardrobe!