The major pattern companies have only a limited number of basic patterns for men's, women's, and children's parkas, vests, and ski suits. Pattern companies specializing in outerwear have a wider variety of patterns that are more creative in design. Most specialty patterns are printed in multiple sizes. By tracing the size to be used on another paper before cutting, the master pattern can be used for a variety of sizes. Select patterns by the size you usually wear.
Outerwear patterns allow ease for the garment to fit over other clothing.
Be sure to check the pattern's fit and make any necessary alterations before cutting the fabric. The variety of fabrics available for sewing outerwear is virtually unlimited, but some fabrics are used more often than others. Nylon is a continuous filament yarn that is lightweight, tough, and elastic. Because it can be woven very tightly, nylon tend to repels water. It is used almost exclusively in outerwear.