Winter Cloak

This is actually 's birthday present from back in July. I told her to pick one costume item and I would sew it for her. Well, it wasn't until September when we were at the Renaissance Fair that she decided she wanted a cloak. Then it wasn't until November until we went and picked out the fabric. Then it wasn't until DECEMBER until I started working on the pattern...and finally, it is now January, and the cloak is complete. Of course, that is simply due to a lot of laziness and the inability to decide on anything.

This cloak is based on a previous cape I did over the summer ([link]), only adjusted to fall around Chelsea's calves, and fit her shoulders perfectly. (There are also no holes in the hood for ears, lawl). The exterior is made out of micro-suede, and the interior is a soft cotton blend. I wanted to go for a cloak that looked genuine, not fake like crushed velvet. The fur trim is of course not real, but I did spend a little extra money to get the type that is EXTRA soft and fuzzy. ^^ It's especially great around the hood, where it rubs against your cold chin and face.

While I didn't buy REAL leather or fur, I think the "genuine" look was still a great success. This cloak is truly a winter cloak. During the photo shoot it REALLY kept me warm. The hood especially kept snow out of my face and the clasp is set just right so it stays securely around the neck.

Sorry if this ruins the surprise, Chelsea! You won't get it until this weekend, but I was so excited that I just had to put it up. Plus the fact that it's SNOWING today was just perfect. It's just the right element.

Happy Birthday!

P.S. Total (not counting all the lapse time in between July and January), this cloak took me around 10 hours from pattern to ironing. The fabric itself cost around $33, the trim was $16, and the clasp was around $11. Anyone interested in a cloak like this? It'll cost you about $150. You can shake your fist at Chelsea for getting it for free.