I went to Taylor's buttons and got my first 250 Mother of Pearl buttons to start with. I decided to buy a variety of each, 100 large and 150 small so that when I start to add pattern these details will may add interest, instead of it being one type of button. When referring back to the photo's of the Pearly's, they never seem to use them same type of button within their designs. The buttons aren't cheap either! but I don't want to compensate for tacky machine buttons because it wouldn't be the real thing. So I have decided that 600 buttons will be most I will place on the jacket, creating a skeleton jacket.
So the sewing begins! The Pearlys had previously explained that the best way to start a jacket is to work with its outline . Slowly sewing each button on the jackets seams and lapels before working inwards, and adding more detail over time. I have started off with placing the buttons on the garment to make sure that I knew what buttons I wanted to sew and where. I have then started at the top lapel and worked downwards around the outline and towards the pocket flaps on either side.
The jacket material is easy to work with but the hardest part is losing direction, Even though i have used templates to help me you have still have to concentrate that you don't stitch the lining of the jacket as well as the button, otherwise it ends up in a tangled mess. Its also hard to see if you are sewing the button in line with the previous one. The amount of times I have had to start again is really frustrating. I am pleased with how the jacket is coming along, finding the contrast between the white button on the black jacket is looking really effective. Most of all, After just stitching these few buttons I am beginning to get a real appreciation for the workmanship that goes into producing a collection of something so detailed. I am starting to gain a small insight into the workmanship when creating one of these jackets for this project.
Still to do:
More Edging, Seams and lapels...front and back!!!!
Left hand pocket with detailing.
Cuffs Edging
Writing on the back.
