Thread: Any good Caftan / cover up patterns out there?

I found this one . . .
Products for Patterns of Time

Has anyone used it? Would you recommend it? Does anyone know how much fabric it calls for?

I need a full length cover up for ATS costuming . . . so it has to be roomy enough for a lot of tassels underneath . . . I would rather buy a pattern and make one . . .

So . . . . does anyone have any patterns you would recommend? It would be REALLY awesome if someone had one they would sell me for real cheap! Anyway, any help would be appreciated!

Thanks,
Z

I recently used Butterick #6881 with some slight modifications. Instead of a zipper in the front, I used small (discreet) snaps. Also, I used a contrasting fabric for the collar and added cuffs with the same contrasting fabric. I get a lot of compliments on it but not as authentic as the one on your link. Good Luck!

Don,t forget to check your local thrift stores, and Ross. They are hit or miss, so check on a regular basis.. I have seen some cute caftans out there.
To figure out how much fabric you need. measure from the shoulder to the feet and double , so you have enough for front and back. Take the inches and divide by 36 and you will come up with the approximate yardage needed

I like 'em roomy and whenever I've made one I use about 4 yards of 44"/45"fabric. More for really full sleeves. Keep your eyes peeled for buying one already made because sometimes making one ends up costing more!

Thanks for the input! I'll keep my eyes open, but I really think I'd rather buy a pattern so I can make as many as I want . . . and I just got a new serger, so I need to use it. I just need to find the right pattern. Like I said, I'll have a lot of tassels on, so I need one that can cover all that . . . . keep the ideas coming! Thanks!

I have used Simplicity 4795 three times. I first made it from sari fabric with a zipper in the front, then thin brocade-type fabric from JoAnn and use a pin to close it, and last cotton fabric with buttons for closure. I modified the neck to more of a slight v-neck. I also made the sleeves not quite so huge.

You can often find Simplicity patterns on sale at JoAnn or Hancock Fabrics for $2, sometimes even $1.

I used simplicity 0542 (bathrobe) in a brown Indian batik to make a wrap style robe. I think it's out of print but 5877 could work too. You can use a smaller size to fit your top half, then make it larger from the waist down to cover your hips.

Some people use Folkwear's Turkish Dancer Entari pattern. I think (but don't quote me) that's the pattern Megha uses for her coats, and I know on some she puts a strip of velcro down the front closure part (you can sew false decorative buttons on top).
Devyani Dance Center Grand Opening (meghahaley.jpg)

I've decided I need another wrap in a slightly warmer fabric after last night (brrr).

Kiyaana, you know how I covet your pretty coverups.
Do you think Simplicity 4795 would be a doable first project for someone who doesn't really sew? I have had a sewing machine for years and need to start using it!

Yes! Two side seams, put in the sleeves, then hem all the edges. G Street should have a nice assortment of separating zippers when looking for closure options. We'll talk.

Originally Posted by Zana

I've decided I need another wrap in a slightly warmer fabric after last night (brrr).

Kiyaana, you know how I covet your pretty coverups.
Do you think Simplicity 4795 would be a doable first project for someone who doesn't really sew? I have had a sewing machine for years and need to start using it!

Yes, please!

This one's not simple, but I like the look of View B with the hood (photo in blue):
Simplicity Patterns - Simplicity 5840 - Simplicity Sewing Patterns for Costumes - Simplicity Pattern Reviews
Jedi Bellydancer!

Go to the costume section of the pattern books. Look for a pattern for the Nativity, the three kings coat is great, has great big sleeves! You just have to cut it longer.