The patterns I have is lined, with darts for the shaping, though I might be able to mould the bias cut fronts to reduce the need for darts, or place them where they are not so obvious in order to preserve the integrity of the tartan.
The pattern is from way back - when it was quite usual for men to wear shirt and waistcoat without jackets - the folk singers I knew all wanted waistcoats with pockets so they could keep their plectra and finger picks handy. I made the waistcoats on the straight of the fabric as I had not even heard of bias cutting back then.

I also note that the original pattern is a size 38inch chest - that really dates it.

I think that I might go with the tartan back on the straight, but only if I can centre the pattern nicely on the sett - it is in two pieces so I might be able to mirror image it - plus I can save a bit of fabric by shortening it and making the fronts curved, bolero style rather than having the male type triangles under the pockets. Otherwise a toning material cut on the bias.

I have these old patterns as I always trace them, then cut them about and alter the copies so as to be unrecognisable - more sticky tape than tissue paper.

Anne the Pleater :ootd: