How to sew a reversible vest inspired by a traditional hanbok baeja

The vest has long been a staple layering piece that we reach for in winter months. And in this edition of Sewing School our resident sewing expert, Sara SJ Kim, will show you how to make your very own hankbok vest, the baeja, using an original pattern inspired by the traditional Korean garment.  

"Historically, the baeja was worn over a hanbok dress to add elegance and formality or as a practical layer for warmth in colder weather," says Sara. "For this pattern, I have reimagined the traditional baeja and simplified its design so that it is more practical for everyday wear." She also created cropped and oversized options so you can customize the length to get your desired look.

Watch the video for Sara's full, step-by-step guide to sewing this vest from scratch — including a demonstration on bias binding. Then scroll down to download the pattern, get the sizing instructions and see the list of materials needed for this project.

Here's what you'll need:

• Hanbok vest pattern and measurement instructions, printed
• Scissors
• Washi tape
• 3 large pieces of main fabric, for the front and back bodice
• 3 large pieces of lining fabric, for the front and back bodice
• 4 small pieces of fabric, for the ties
• 1 small piece of main or lining fabric, for the pocket (optional)
• Bias tape 
• A sewing machine
• Thread, in colours of your choice
• Pins
• Sewing clips
• Fabric shears

Produced in collaboration with CBC Creator Network.