As I have finished 5 of my 6 PhD targets I thought I could afford the time to make something else!

I wanted to make myself a long waistcoat with pockets (none of my clothes ever seem to have enough pockets).  I bought this pattern, basic but with plenty of variations.  I am making view A. 

I decided to patch it together from my pile of denim scraps, as we all know denim goes with everything!  It would also use up a lot of denim!  For added interest I would put the seams on the outside.  This way I would have interesting fraying going on on the outside and the unlined inside would be smooth.  

I spent a lot of time patching bits together for each pattern piece.  Most of my scraps appeared to have pockets on, so I have pockets up my back too!.  Despite the time spent making it random, I still managed to get matching pockets on the front which was intensely annoying. 

When I tried it on for the fit I had to adjust the sides as they were too big, and the armholes, which were too small!.  It would have been a better shape with a bust dart, but a) it wasn't supposed to have one and b) the pocket on the bust was in the way, so I left it alone. I liked the open vent in the sides, but this side hangs perfectly...

and this side won't.  I unpicked it and did it again but it still curls up.  I had to take one of the pockets off to take in the side seam.  Happily it was the only one without stud fittings!  I adjusted the facings to match the alterations I had made to the armholes, and fitted them.

I used hand embroidery to hold the facings and hem in place.  Then I decided to embellish the patch where the pocket had been.  Then I added more to the other pockets.  Then I used some more scraps to add some applique hearts, with more hand embroidery.

I wore it today, and it feels good.  The front hem is level despite how it looks in the photo!  The other half said "It's finished then?" and I said "Possibly."  

I may add more embroidery.  

I may add a lining.  

I may change one of those matching pockets.

I will enjoy wearing it!