Despite the imminent arrival of spring, winter still seems to be with us. But that's no excuse to put off preparing your spring coat.
Belted trenchcoats are everywhere this season. And it makes sense, given their ability to keep you dry in a rain shower and look smart too. Contrast trim is also very fashionable.
So what can you do if you already own a spring coat, don't want to buy a new one, but want to put a bit of this year's fashion into your old one?
A really easy way to add a bit of glamour to your trench is to make a new belt. Why not try our fabric covered button tutorial, too? Then you can customise your coat with a matching belt and buttons.
What will it cost?
A few pounds, depending on the cost of the material.
What do you need?
Old spring coat
Material
Sewing machine, needle and thread or Sewfree
Ruler
Tailor's chalk
Belt buckle, such as this black one or this tortoiseshell one (optional)
What to do
1. Work out the width and length for the belt. Use a ruler and tailor's chalk to mark this out on the material. Consider giving the belt angular ends, or adding a buckle.
2. Cut out the material, leaving a 1cm seam allowance on each side.
3. Pin the belt with the right sides together and your markings on show. Stitch the belt together or use Sewfree.
4. To add a buckle, pull one end of the belt around a buckle and stitch it in place.
