Description
From the Folder Back
In the 1950s there was only one way for a girl to get to wear a Varsity Jacket: she had to find an athletic boyfriend who wouldn’t mind lending her his. Only boys were awarded Varsity Jackets for their prowess on the field or court, but everyone coveted these handsome heavy wool jackets with contrasting leather sleeves and knitted collar, waistband and cuffs, made in their school colors. The A-l Flight Jacket, developed by the Air Force in the 1920s, was the precursor to the Varsity Jacket. The short, leather blouson jacket had knit wool collar, cuffs and waistband to keep out the wind and chill in an open cockpit and also provided ample freedom of movement. This dashing style eventually found its way to the campus as a sport coat and became what we now call the Varsity Jacket. Today the Varsity Jacket has reached the status of an all-American classic. It can be found in a variety of fabrics from traditional wool (solids, or checks and plaids), to washed silk, suede and leather. Our pattern, sized for men and women, offers instructions for making the traditional wool body with leather sleeves and pocket welts, and also contains knitting instructions for the collar, cuffs and waistband.
About the Pattern
Folkwear 251 includes the full-size pattern pieces, and instructions for making the Varsity Jacket shown. Enlarge the photo for a better look at the details. Let me know if you’d like to see the folder back. This is sized for Misses’ XS-S-M / 6-16 (30-1/2″ to 38″ bust) and Men’s S-M-L (34-44″ chest). The folder measures about 11″ x 8-1/2″ and the patterns are printed on white tissue/vellum paper with the instructions on bond paper. This has 1990 copyright.
Condition
See photo. The folder and fold-top baggy are in very good condition with some lighter storage. The pattern and instruction sheets are as new in original factory folds. No names or other markings. From clean, smoke-free home.
Shipping
Generally sent the same day you pay. Unless you request otherwise, I will back this with one piece of box cardboard (to help prevent the Post Office from bending it), wrap it in plastic wrap (to help protect the item from moisture or torn packaging), then send inside a manila envelope when sent via First Class Mail with Delivery Confirmation. This is the cheapest postage option that includes both item protection and tracking. See the shipping page to give you an estimate on the cost of a First Class 2 package. I am delighted to combine postage and insurance costs if you purchase more than one item. The second item may travel for free or just a few cents more — so it’s worth taking a look at my other items before you complete your order.
Not sure?
If you’d like more information about or additional photos of Folkwear 251, please feel free to contact me. If it’s the price you don’t like, make an offer!
Check out my other Historical and Folkwear costume patterns. The more you buy, the cheaper postage is per item!
