I was lucky enough to be a tester for the Tilly and the Buttons Eden coat so I got to see it in all its glory late last year.
I chose to make the wool duffle version as I had an old mustard RTW one that was on its last legs so needed replacing.
I really enjoyed the process of choosing the fabric and lining for the coat. I decided I wanted to go all out Little Red Riding Hood so I chose this cherry red washable wool coating and then used the Rifle Paper Co Juliet Rose Rayon as the main lining (sold out unfortunately), with some of our pink ex-designer lining for the sleeves (it always helps to have a slippy fabric for sleeves, to help get them on and off easily).
I made the longer version for more coverage and I chose to use a long open ended zip and Prym toggles to fasten it.
The construction of the coat is pretty straightforward, and as usual, Tilly walks you through the instructions step by step. I found the coating fabric really easy to work with.
I would advise you use a tailor’s clapper when working with wool. Or failing that, a small piece of pine wood that you can use to take the steam out of the pressed seam and ensure a crisp finish. I would also advise you use a pressing cloth to make sure you don’t end up with any shiny patches from the iron.
I lined my pockets, using the rayon, this was slightly frustrating as I had to unpick it as I could still see some of the lining peeking out. I chose not to add the pocket flaps as I preferred the look without it.
I have worn my Eden non-stop since I made it. It is such a great winter coat – not too hot but not too cold and the hood has been a life/hair saver in the rain!
If you are feeling like you would like to make the leap into coat making, then I would highly recommend this pattern. It’s cute, stylish and practical and who doesn’t want to look like Paddington?!
