Welcome to the Parker sewalong! In this first lesson, Erica will introduce you to our sewalongs and give you some helpful tips. And in the next lesson, she’ll show you how to pick a size and prep your pattern and fabric.

If you’re feeling confident about getting started, you can go ahead and skip to lesson 3 and you’ll learn some helpful fitting techniques for the pattern.

Here is everything you need to know about Parker before you start sewing!

Parker is a chore coat designed for those who appreciate practicality and style. It has a gender-expansive fit, with a straight cut through the body and distinctive two-piece raglan sleeves. For unrestricted movement, it features subtle shoulder darts and a center back box pleat with a release at the mid-back. It has a cuff adorned with a denim jacket-style placket, a stand collar, and an oversized front placket secured with heavy-duty snaps. And you’ll have plenty of pockets! It has lower pockets that span from the placket to the side seam, two chest patch pockets, and an interior patch pocket.

Fabric recommendations: Look for medium-weight or heavyweight fabrics such as canvas, duck cloth, waxed canvas, flannel, denim, twill, and corduroy.

Fabric qualities to look for: When picking a fabric, prioritize what your machine can handle. This jacket is designed for sturdier fabrics, but there will be several places in the pattern where you must sew through multiple layers. If your machine doesn’t do well with heavyweight fabrics like duck or waxed canvas, opt for something medium-weight, like twill or an 8oz denim.

Seamwork members, take advantage of your member deals this month! You can save up to 20% off your order here.