The Sara Project

This post is sponsored by Baby Lock, but all opinions are my own.

Many months ago I ordered some Teddy Fleece fabric with grand plans to make a cute bias finished coat for spring. Before I knew it, summer was here so I pushed it off for fall. I’m so excited I was able to find some time to finally bring my little vision for this fabric to life this past week. I’m so happy with how my new jacket turned out and I’m so impressed with my Baby Lock sewing machines– sewing through the super thick seams, well, seamlessly! I’m here today to share all the details, as well as some tips for sewing with Teddy Fleece fabric!

Teddy fleece jackets have been trending since last winter, and I’m seeing them even more full force this fall. I really love the oversized fit of the Jakob Jacket by Sewing Machina, and I knew it was a perfect match for what I envisioned. I wanted a simple drop sleeve jacket with a bias bound finish, simple pockets and button closures.

Let’s start with the project details!

I used a teddy fleece fabric I ordered last spring from Beglarian Fabrics. I used a chocolate brown Kona Cotton fabric for my lining. I used the Jakob Jacket pattern from Sewing Machine, and made the size C in the long version. I omitted the collar for this version, and made no pattern adjustments or changed anything other than cutting off about 1.5-2″ from the sleeve length and sewing in buttonholes instead of using snaps.

I mainly used my Baby Lock Accomplish 2 sewing machine. This machine is so great for sewing through thicker seams as you can adjust the amount of pressure on the pressure foot depending on what fabrics you are using. It also sews at a faster speed which I love, especially when I’m trying to get the most I can done in my short sewing sessions.

I also used my Baby Lock Brilliant sewing machine for the button holes on my jacket. I had zero issues sewing through the thick fleece fabric. I can’t tell you how happy sewing buttons holes with this machine makes me! I used to loathe this step, but not anymore.

The whole jacket came together very quickly and seamlessly! The love the fit! I’m torn between the short version and the long version. I guess I need to make another one!

Tips for Using Teddy Fleece Fabric!

Teddy fleece, also known as sherpa fleece, is so cozy to wear, but can be a little tricky to sew. It’s slightly stretchy, super thick and tend to shed. Here are some practical tips to help you get good results in your final project.

1. Use clips instead of pins! Sewing clips are so handy for thicker fabric, and make the process much easier! I highly recommend having some in your sewing supplies!
2. Pay attention to the nap of the fabric and make sure to cut all of your patterns pieces out in the same direction. Use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter for a smooth cutting experience.
3. Lower your pressure foot pressure slightly if you can to allow the fabric to move easier through the machine. I love that I can adjust the pressure with my Accomplish 2 sewing machine! A walking foot works great here too.
4. Lengthen your stitch length slightly, I like 3mm!
5. Do not iron! Teddy or sherpa fleece can melt, if you must definitely use a pressing cloth.
6. Make sure to pick a project with simple lines as it can be tricky to sew more intricate designs with such thick fabric. A dropped shoulder and boxy fit, just like the Jakob Jacket, work best! A simple vest would be so cute too!
7. I love the binding finish on sherpa jackets, have fun and use a contrasting binding!
8. Slow down on thicker seams, and stay calm! You got this!

All in all, sherpa/teddy fleece fabric isn’t too difficult to work with, and is perfect for a fall/winter jacket or vest. I hope this post inspires you to try your hand at sewing with this cozy fabric! Thanks for reading along, and as always, happy sewing!

XO, Sara