Sew A Wool Cape

Actually, this wrap wool cape requires very little sewing. It makes a wonderful spring or fall wrap when you need just a little something extra over your shoulders. It can be made from a variety of fabrics, but wool is one of my favorite choices. Even beginners can successfully draft and sew a wool cape with this tutorial.

This instructional post will walk you through the steps to make this simple chic cape. However, you can skip to the bottom and click the link to the tutorial video for a visual demonstration of this cape pattern.

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The Pattern

There is no pattern needed to sew this basic cape. You need to decide on the length and width, then simply cut away the neck opening. Finally, you need to finish any raw edge that is exposed.

We explore how to measure the cap in the video below.

The Fabric

I used a wool from a New York fabric house I purchased many years ago. This Mustard, Burnt Orange and Brown Plaid Double Cloth Stretch Wool Blend Twill from Mood would be a wonderful option. It looks great on both sides, which is an important consideration. With this fabric you can wear the solid side (wrong side) when you have a print outfit and the plaid side (right side) if your outfit is a solid color — versatility is key.

Visit my list of favorite online fabric shops for more options.

Construction

Once you have determined the cape length and cape width the next step is to cut the neck opening.

Neck Line Opening

This is always the scary bit. It is important that you cut along the centerline or your cape body will be off center — not a good look.

Fold the uncut rectangle fabric in half matching the front and back bottom edge to find the center where the shoulders will lie. mark the shoulder fold with pins.

Next, refold the fabric rectangle matching the side seams together. This is the seam that will be cut half way for the front opening.

Finally, cut a circle encompassing the front opening for the neck hole. Use your neck measurement and add an inch or two so the cape sits off your neckline a bit. I like to trace my opening with something round, a salad plate works really well. Remember, cutting it too small and recutting is better than cutting it too large. But, it is your design, so who is to say what is correct — only you!

Finishing The Edges

There are several options for finishing the edges of your cape pattern.

Fold Over Elastic

This is my go to when finishing an edge that needs to look good from both sides. I use fold over elastic for a polished finish. It is available in a large variety of colors and is the perfect edging without adding bulk.

Bias Binding

Please, please do not use commercial bias tape. It is stiff and will make your garment’s edges flare or hang oddly. It is not too difficult to make your own bias binding. If you use the same fashion fabric as your garment, you will have a beautiful high end finish. Alternatively, you could use a coordinating fabric for a fun border.

Check out my How To Make Bias Binding Video to get started amping up your sewing prowess.

Selvage Edges

Many wools (and other fabrics) have wonderful selvage edges. They are fringed and make a fun and ease finish. On my demonstration cape, the fabric has fringed edges and I left them as they were. It also makes for less work!

Lining Fabric

Lining the cape is a design option. If you choose to line your cape, any complimentary fabric will work. The pattern can be sewn right sides together then turned and finished at the neck edge or hem seam allowances.

Pro Tip: If you do line your cape, it will most likely sag. What you gain in not finishing the edges, you lose with having to top stitch to keep the edges from rolling so they appear as the same length. Again — a personal design choice.

Folded Edge

Using a folded edge on the outside seam allowances is another option. However, you will see the seamed edges as the cape moves. Personally, I think this is the least desirable finish option.

The Video Tutorial

In the tutorial below, I walk you through fabric selection, cutting, and finishing this easy project.

How to Sew a Cape

Measure twice, cut once — the mantra for every pattern making project. I hope this tutorial on how to sew a wool cape inspires you to create your own version of this wrap outerwear beauty. Whether long or short, wool or silk, you will have a closet full of fun and simple chic cape choices when you need just a little something extra to ward off a chill.

Happy Sewing,

Sandi

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