We are so excited to be releasing the Nerrisa Coat this week! The team has not been able to stop wearing the samples we've made up, and we know this pattern has so much potential to be made up lots of different ways. It's a great fit for a more sustainable sewing practice - you can use old quilts that are languishing in storage, or scrap bust and make a colour blocked beauty. You can go wild with your quilting, or keep it simple for a quick project. It's the perfect piece when you're not ready to commit to your winter coats, but need a little warmth, and works equally well in the Spring. 

We've rounded up some ready-to-wear quilt coats to get you inspired. We can't wait to see the Nerrisa's you whip up, be sure to post them on Instagram and tag them with #bhlNerrisa. 

 

Traditional

Nerrisa was inspired by a traditional quilt coat, and we love this interpretation. The original Nerrisa samples were made from a quilt we purchased on eBay. We know this is a bit of a heated debate in the sewing world - repurposing old quilts for new garments. Our stance is that there are so many unloved quilts in the world, in attics and charity shops, that it's great to give them a new life and usefulness. Of course, we wouldn't recommend doing this with really special quilts, so be respectful and use your discretion. 

 Images clockwise from top left: Bode New York, Honeybea, bottom two both Farewell Frances

 

Colour Blocked

If your aesthetic is anything but traditional, Nerrisa is still a wonderful blank slate. A graphic colour-block looks modern and punchy, a great way to bring some brightness to darkening Autumn days. It can also make for a wonderfully sustainable project. Sew together some scraps from your stash, then cut the pattern pieces out of this newly created fabric. You can make it matching, or assymetrical to keep it fresh (and avoid the pitfalls of pattern matching). 

Clockwise from top left: KAPITAL, Mara Hoffman,  By Marie, Vacilando Studios

 

Minimalist 

We love this sleek take on the quilted jacket. Because the pattern has simple lines, it takes well to a neutral colour with minimal embellishments. This makes it infinitely wearable and very fresh, a jacket like this will be a staple for years to come.

Clockwise from top left: Aimé Leon Dore, Kordal Studio, Rennes, Szymon Brzóska

Quilting Motifs

For a minimalist look with a bit of a kick, you can get creative with your quilting lines. I love the more organic look, and it has the bonus of being easier to execute, but I also think the regular motifs of flowers and hearts can look playful and chic in equal measure. 

Clockwise from top left: Rebecca Taylor, Anthropologie, Horror Vacui, Tyler Joe (photographer)

 

Hand Quilting

This technique embraces slow making (perfect for cosy Autumn evenings), and puts a real stamp of personality on any project. It looks beautiful, creates a wonderful texture to the fabric, and we love the connection with makers of the past. Using a contrasting thread really lets the hand quilting shine. 

Clockwise from top left: Anthropologie, Anchal Project, Anchal Project, Jess Meany

 

Different Fabrics

Nerrisa is designed for your reliable quilting cottons, but that doesn't need to limit you in your choices. There are lots of wonderful options, a velvet or shearling for an ultra cosy version, something like tencel for a sleek coat, old blankets for charm and warmth. We really love the needle punched fabric that was used below, the texture is incredible and it really is a one of a kind piece!

Clockwise from top left: Free People, Carrement Beau, Kordal Studio, Micah Clasper-Torch

 

Remember that Nerrisa is 20% off until Wednesday October 12 at midnight BST!