Whether you’re eyeing a stack of heirloom quilts or just bought some cute pre-quilted cotton, making a quilted jacket is a total rite of passage. It’s the ultimate cozy project. Luckily, the quilt coat trend is still going strong, which means there are more sewing patterns available now than ever.
From boxy chore coats to hooded moving blankets, this roundup covers the absolute best quilted jacket sewing patterns for every skill level. Let’s dive into the world of wearable blankets and upcycled style!
Tips for Sewing Your First Quilted Jacket
If you are new to garment sewing, quilted fabrics can look intimidating. They are thick! Still, you can totally get a professional finish – here is how to handle the bulk:
- Pick the Right Needle: Don’t try to use a standard universal needle. Quilted layers are dense. Use a size 90/14 or 100/16 topstitching or denim needle. It will pierce through the batting without skipping stitches.
- Master the Bias Tape: Most of these patterns don’t use a traditional lining. Instead, they use Hong Kong seams or bias binding. This covers the raw edges of your quilt and is a great way to add a pop of color or a fun print to the inside of your coat.
- The Walking Foot is Your Best Friend: A walking foot is non-negotiable. It pulls the top and bottom layers of the fabric through the machine at the same speed. Without it, your layers will shift, and you’ll end up with puckers.
- Check Your Quilt Condition: If you are upcycling a vintage quilt, check for “dry rot” or weak spots. Hold the quilt up to the light: if the batting is lumpy or the fabric is shattering, it might not hold up as a garment.
- Test Your Closures: Buttons can be tricky on thick fabric. If your machine struggles with buttonholes, consider using large snaps, toggle closures, or even simple fabric ties.
Supplies Checklist
Before you start, make sure you have these essentials:
- A sturdy sewing machine (freshly cleaned and oiled)
- Walking foot attachment
- Heavy-duty needles (90/14 or 100/16)
- 10–12 yards of 1/2-inch double-fold bias tape (for finishing seams)
- High-quality polyester thread (it’s stronger for thick layers)
- Tailor’s chalk or a Hera marker
- Large fabric shears or a fresh rotary blade
- Clover clips (pins often get lost or bent in thick quilts)
Best Quilted Jacket & Quilt Coat Sewing Patterns
One of the best things about the patterns on this list is the community behind them. Every single one has great reviews and plenty of shared photos from sewists who have already finished their projects.
This is a huge win for you because you can see how these coats fit on different body types before you even cut your fabric. You won’t have to worry about a “fit shock” where the sleeves feel too narrow or the body looks way bigger than expected – you can see exactly how they drape on real people!
Best Versatile Wardrobe Staple: All Well Cardigan Coat from AllWellWorkshop
The All Well Cardigan Coat is a brilliant foundational pattern. It’s simple, versatile, and comes with a free hacking guide. What’s more, beginners love the illustrated instructions. Also, you can customize the length, add a shawl collar, or try different pocket shapes. It fits busts 32-62 inches comfortably.
Best Oversized Unisex Pattern: Coast Coat from Daniellelaraestudios
The Coast Coat is a dream for the daring newbie. This boxy, unisex jacket is designed specifically for repurposing old blankets and quilts. It features a relaxed fit and avoids technical jargon in the instructions. It’s available in sizes XS-3XL and works best with thinner second-hand blankets.
Best Wide-Fit Statement Coat: Oscilatey Quilt Coat
This is Oscilatey’s most popular pattern for a reason. It includes a video tutorial, which is a lifesaver for visual learners. The fit is wide and boxy, fitting up to 2X. It’s perfect for turning a standard 66″x52″ quilt into a stylish, oversized statement piece.
Best Transitional Jacket: Flora Jacket & Vest from BrightsidePatterns
The Flora is a slightly oversized piece perfect for spring or fall. It offers three pocket styles and two hem options. It’s designed for thicker fabrics like thrifted quilts. We love the size range (XS-5XL) and the detailed instructions on how to quilt your own fabric.
Best Beginner Pattern for Pre-Quilted Fabric: Quilted Jacket from RosysPatterns
RosysPatterns offers a super inclusive size range from XXS to 5XL. This pattern is specifically tailored for pre-quilted fabrics like cotton, denim, or even velvet. It features a simple closure-free front and bias tape finishes. It’s the perfect first coat project for a weekend.
Best Multi-Option Layering Piece: Sage Coat & Vest from OhMeOhMySewing
The Sage pattern is a powerhouse. You get options for a coat, a jacket, or a vest. It was drafted specifically for repurposing quilts. It features button or tie closures and instructions for bound seams. It’s beginner-friendly and includes measurements in both inches and centimeters.
Best Cozy Thrifting Companion: Dotti Quilted Jacket from Sewnbyelisabeth
The Dotti is all about that “wrapped in a blanket” feeling. It’s a boxy, oversized staple that looks amazing made from flea market finds. It’s a confident beginner pattern that requires about 2 yards of fabric. The instructions guide you through every single step, and you can choose from different closures – snaps, buttons, or ties.
Best Hooded Quilt Coat: Omilla Design Hooded Coat from Sewillow
This drop-shoulder hooded coat is ideal for quilters. It skips traditional hemming in favor of bias binding, making it easier to construct. You’ll love the deep curved pockets and adaptable sleeve lengths. It fits UK sizes 6-28 and works beautifully with felted blankets or cotton quilts.
Best Intermediate Wrap Jacket: Coquillage Jacket from Camimade
“Coquillage” means shell, and this wrap jacket is a cozy envelope. It’s an intermediate-level pattern with beautiful bias finishes. You can choose from two necklines, elasticated waists, and welt or patch pockets. It’s a sophisticated choice for those who want a more tailored, quilted look.
Best Scrap-Busting Masterpiece: Retazo Coat and Vest from SewLiberatedPatterns
The Retazo is perfect for the “can-do” sewist. It uses a quilt-as-you-go method, meaning you can piece each panel individually using fabric scraps. It features raglan sleeves, princess seams, and a curved collar. This intermediate pattern is highly customizable and comes in sizes 0-34.
Best Oversized Slouchy Style: Homebody Quilted Jacket from MatchyMatchySewing
The Homebody is designed for ultimate comfort. It’s a collarless, boxy jacket with dropped shoulders and elastic cuffs to keep out drafts. You’ll find instructions for two different views, including a pieced version. It’s an intermediate pattern that teaches you heirloom-quality quilting skills.
Best Modern Pullover Style: Boxy Pullover Jacket from Thegoodmurph
This pattern is a unique take on the trend. It’s a modern, loose-fit pullover with piped seams and bold details. Also, it’s great for using handmade quilted pieces or transforming old quilts. The adventurous beginner will appreciate the step-by-step instructions for creating this stylish, handmade statement piece.
Best Flattering Beginner Fit: Quilt Jacket from ReillyFitzsimmons
ReillyFitzsimmons offers a classic quilt jacket with a flattering fit. It includes sizes S-XXL and a helpful video tutorial for beginners. The design features a hood, pockets, and button closures. It’s a great entry point for anyone wanting a structured yet sustainable homemade jacket.
Best Reversible Coat: Patchwork Chore Coat from ShopPatchworkPoodles
This pattern was specifically designed for quilted fabric. It has a relaxed chore coat fit and offers a reversible option. The instructions include special methods for finishing bulky underarm seams. You can choose between a classic collar or a three-piece hood. It’s a very practical design.
Best Effortless Chic Design: Clover Quilted Jacket from GeorgettePatterns
The Clover is a patchwork blazer with an open front and delicate strap ties. It’s a relaxed fit that flows beautifully. This pattern includes a video tutorial and features comfy side pockets. It’s a stylish layering piece that feels more like a light jacket or blazer.
Best Statement Collar Jacket: Joni Jacket from SmallMuseumSewing
The Joni Jacket stands out with its huge, dramatic collar! It’s a fitted yet comfortable design that hits right at the hip. This one is meant for adventurous beginners and works perfectly with pre-quilted materials. What’s more, the size range is very inclusive, covering sizes 0 to 34.
Best Utilitarian Design: Moving Coat from Beatonstudiopatterns
Inspired by the durability of moving blankets, this coat is designed to feel safe and enveloped. It’s an intermediate pattern featuring welt pockets, raglan sleeves, and a hood. You can quilt your own fabric or use a vintage quilt. The fit is relaxed and slightly oversized.
Still not sure which pattern to grab? If you want to keep things even simpler, you can try this DIY quilt jacket tutorial from Jessica Shaw. It’s made from a thrifted blanket and a button-down shirt, so it’s a total upcycling win. Also, you can even use a serger to finish the raw edges for a nice, clean look. It’s a fantastic way to experiment with the quilt coat look without a huge investment!
FAQ: Sewing Your Own Quilted Jacket
Can I use a regular sewing machine for a quilt coat? Yes! Most domestic machines can handle it. Just use a walking foot and go slowly over the bulky seams.
How much bias tape do I really need? Usually between 8 and 12 yards depending on the length of the coat and whether you are binding all internal seams. Always buy an extra roll!
Should I wash my quilt before cutting? Absolutely. Vintage quilts can shrink or bleed. Wash it on a gentle cycle and air dry it to see how the fabric behaves before you put in the work.
Is pre-quilted fabric easier for beginners? Yes. It saves you the step of quilting the layers together yourself. However, using a thrifted quilt is often more sustainable and unique.
Whether you choose a simple cardigan style or a dramatic hooded coat, sewing a quilted jacket is a rewarding way to slow down and create something lasting. These patterns offer a range of fits and techniques to help you master the trend.
From upcycling old blankets to experimenting with patchwork, the possibilities are endless. So, grab your favorite pattern, find some cozy fabric, and start sewing your new favorite piece of outerwear!
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