I think a good place for you to start is by deconstructing a thrift-store jacket.

I bought two jackets with the intent of modifying them. I didn't just cut off the bottom - I opened it up from the bottom and repinched several of the darts to make it more fitted. I also sewed closed the center-rear split and made two splits at the side. It's far from perfect, but I won't be embarassed to wear it in public since no casual onlooker will notice the faults.

It was a heck of an experience, and now that I know what is inside a jacket I'm even more intimidated by the thought of making my own. Further, considering that the only thing I can see is the pieces and not the construction methods and techniques, I can't begin to understand what it really takes to make a jacket.

Having said all that, I applaud the effort and will contribute what I can.


boB