At this time of year we can never be too sure what the British weather will throw our way, so it's the perfect chance to get familiar with laminated fabric. Otherwise known as oilcloth, the waterproof material is well-suited to a large number of projects – from tablecloths and bags to umbrellas and rain macs. This raincoat by Amanda Walker is the perfect project if you're looking to test the waters. It features a detachable hood so you'll always be prepared, whatever the weather!
1 Visit www.sewmag.co.uk/templates to download and print the pattern. Cut out the pieces as indicated in the cutting guide. With right sides together, match and pin the shoulder seams together and stitch. Match the two collar pieces with right sides together, pin and stitch. Trim the bulk from the corners, turn to the right side and press, covering the collar with a pressing cloth.
2 Match the centre back neck and the centre of the neck edge of the collar and pin. Clip into the seam allowance around the neck of the coat. Match the front edges of the collar to the notches on the front coat and pin in place. Continue pinning the remainder of the collar. At the shoulder point, make a 1.5cm cut into the inner collar on the neck edge and pin this back neck part up into the collar away from the seam. Stitch in place. Turn the pinned part inside the collar, aligning this edge with the stitching line at the back neck, then pin and edge stitch in place.
3 With the right sides of the facings and the front coat together,