Well…Well…Welts?

In wrapping up my first semester at Otterbein, I wanted to share my favorite project from my costume construction class. As a fan of vests in my personal closet and often incorporating them on stage, I was positively elated that we’d be constructing a formal one of our own during the semester. With this project, I had a chance to really focus on my craftsmanship. And, while I have made many a vest in the past, I’d never had the chance to slow down and really crack welt pockets. Under the guidance of our costume shop manager, it finally clicked!

A Piece of Broadway History

The lining used in the vest, was actually the same lining used for Pirelli’s vest in the latest Sweeney Todd revival; thanks to an Otterbein connection. If you know me, you know that one of my favorite musicals is that ‘Demon Barber of Fleet Street,’ so the chance to incorporate something from one of my favorite productions with a little piece of actual broadway fabric stock, was so special.

The Process

Besides conquering the welt pockets, I got the chance to practice some more button holes, as well as familiarizing myself with different domestic and industrial sewing machines. Mastering a new type of machine in my university’s costume shop meant expanding my knowledge, and experience…things I'll be able to take to the next shop I find myself in. 

I finished off this vest with these “aged” gold buttons for a vintage flair, to really pull together the “frog-and-toad-ness” of it all.

Voilà!