The Quilted Vest pattern by Purl Soho is very easy to modify, which was apparent from all the modified vests folks had made and posted on the Instagram hashtag (#purlsohoquiltedvest). I made a size small, since I wanted to layer the vest over sweaters and needed the armholes to be large enough. I likely would have fit an XS (and could have graded up to small or medium armholes).

After printing out the pattern, I shortened the front and back pieces by 3 inches (keeping the curved details of the hem). If I make another, I’ll crop further by another 3-4 inches (total crop 6-7″).

I wanted a classic neckline, like the L’Envers version. I drew a straight line from where the shoulder began to curve up to create the mock collar on the original pattern, to the first notch mark on the size small. I decided that I wanted a more dramatic v, so I drew a steeper angled line that ended several inches below the notch. I then compared that neckline to a Not Perfect Linen dress I have with a v-neckline, but you could use any garment with a neckline you like.

Ready to cut! I had to figure out how to layout the pattern pieces with the very limited fabric I had. For the brown fleece, I took off 1/2″ (or the seam allowance) off the outer edge of the front pieces and each side of the back piece to get the pattern pieces to fit. For the flannel liner, I ended up cutting two separate pieces for the back, one which was made up of many patches sewn together to size, and then attached both back pieces down the middle. I had to be creative since I didn’t have the necessary yardage, but it all worked out.

I had one length of navy blue cotton-linen blend fabric that I was just able to eke out all the bias tape I needed, plus the ties.