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11:43 am
August 22, 2011
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I'm sure this has been discussed on here, but when I searched I couldn't find exactly what I was looking for.
I've decided I am going to make a cape. Apparently capes have come back into style recently, which I have been calling for a couple years now, but none of the capes I can afford match what I want in a cape.
I need to get some good quality heavy weight wool, but so much stuff comes up when I google it I'm not sure where to start. Help!
Also, any thoughts on a lining fabric would be appreciated!
If there is a topic that addresses this on here somwhere, I apologize for creating a new post for this. I'm at work- so I couldn't do a super indepth search. 
11:46 am
December 14, 2010
Online
Blankets and throws are a posibility. Either wool, acrylic, or polar fleece.
12:00 pm
December 28, 2008
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The capes I've had over the years are generally not lined, if that helps. (It would if I were making one!) My fav is a light weight woven wool. That one is for dress occasions only.
My most used and perhaps abused cape is a knit fabric. It goes into the washing machine well, but I don't think I'd like to work with a knit to sew that weight, or really any weight.
Polar fleece seems to be the most serviceable fabric out these days. Even solid colors can be kinda dressy, and the novelty prints out are just fun for a more casual look. The polar fleece seems to be available just about anywhere that sells any fabric these days, and I was just noticing that there are heavier and lighter weights out now, too.
Good luck in your search! Keep us updated, too!! 
12:32 pm
June 1, 2010
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I agree with above suggestions: check out a throw or blanket you like, chances are it's cape-able. Another option, check out the commercially available cape patterns, they will have suggestions on fabric choices. If you can get to a LFS (local fabric shop) you might find a knowledgable sales person to help. I live halfway between two ginormous independent fabric stores and they are each a source of great info, sales people working in fabrics for >20 years.
Make certain the heavy weight wool you choose is not so stiff that it doesn't drape well. that said, the fabric should probably be a tight weave rather than a loose one. Can you go to a store or shop to check out the capes for sale? The ready-mades will give you a great idea about the 'hand' the fabric should have. Oh, and you may want to check out some (men's) suiting fabric; sturdy, wool, tailors well, 54 in wide….
If you are going to line your cape, you may not want to choose the least expensive option. I've done that once or twice and the garments, which turned out to be my faves, had to be relined because the lining wore out way before the fashion fabric.
good luck, post pix
1:12 pm
February 10, 2009
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This is where I shop for new fabric. Quilting, aprons, toweling etc etc etc. They have lots of other fabric too, and they're so reliable, I don't hesitate to recommend them for that too.
they are a reliable company, fast delivery, and if there is a problem, they e-mail you immediately and if I've called them, the person has been able to run back to the warehouse, and ask people direct questions, then she came back and helped me and we were able to work out any issues.
Also, they don't pull fast tricks like trying to charge you for a 1/2 yard making you think it's a full yard. That is such a dirty trick!
5:17 pm
October 10, 2009
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Hancock Fabrics out of Paduca KY. If you are lucky to have a retail store near you their employees are really helpful. Hope you find your cape pattern. I have a pattern for an Irish cloak/cape for over 6 years which I have never made up for one reason or another. Good luck with your project.
10:35 pm
January 17, 2011
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Just one caution, heavy weight wool can be REALLY HEAVY! I have my son's Pcoat from the Navy. Those originals are made from heavy weight wool and that weighs right at 10 lbs. I just got it out of the closet to weigh it to make sure.
Just keep that in mind when you make your fabric selection.
12:36 pm
January 24, 2010
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Joann Fabrics sells a nice coat weight wool that I like to use for capes. It runs about $25 a yard, but if you get on their mailing list you can get 40% off coupons. If you need it warmer you can line it with lining fabric, polar fleece, or flannel. I have one I use for re-enactment that is lined with flannel AND polar fleece. It's heavy, but so warm I can use it for a blanket.
1:17 pm
December 14, 2010
Online
If ever you get the chance examine the cemetary cloak of an Episcopal priest. They are woolen and heavy and elegant.
1:49 pm
June 9, 2011
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You might try…
http://www.fashionfabricsonlin…..ool-Fabric
I've purchased from there before and was quite satisfied both with prices and quality. Also, they are advertising free shipping right now.
I wonder if you could convert a long overcoat somehow. I got one for less than $8 at the Goodwill before. Of course, it was already lined.
2:39 pm
June 1, 2010
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@thistlewoodmanor: Reenactment??? Civil War???
I marvel at the breadth of CITR interests!
9:33 am
January 24, 2010
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Bonita, we do medieval re-enactment with the SCA.
10:19 am
July 18, 2011
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I did Indian War reenactments for about ten years. Lots of fun and work, establising a persona and keeping it for hours on in is tough. I loved the responses from adults and children. My best experience was after giving a tour for 4th grades in period clothes, one little boy took my hand in his as we were walking and said " I'm so sorry for you" I asked "why" and with his beautiful sorry filled eyes he said "All your family and friends must be dead".
Evently in his mind I was from that period. I miss reenactments sometimes, I have not given up my clothings, wigs and other things and sometimes when I'm shopping I find items that can be modified for that period — so far I haven't purchased anything but tell others what they can do with them.
1:44 pm
September 26, 2010
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I do Renassiance and Pirate reenactments too! They are a lot of fun, and I enjoy going to Civil War ones as spectators. Medieval clothes are enough of a bother I don't know if I would like the big hoop skirts and hidden bodices on the Civil War clothing! Also, I have picked up some of my best homemade crafting supplies at reinactments, like fabric, wooden knitting and crocheting needles, really pretty glass beads, etc.
9:23 am
August 22, 2011
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Guys, Thanks for all of the advice! I did get to a LFS over the weekend, and they didn't have anything like what I am looking for. The closest thing I could find there was felt haha!
I'm going to check out the online stores recommended here- hopefully I can find something. Otherwise I'll start blanket hunting.
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