So, the problem with something like black or blue or green, is then it's not terribly obvious you've sewn yourself a jacket (because all the softshells out there are black or blue or green)., But purple or "tomato" are way off the usual scale of colors. Which means you've got to be willing to show off a bit, lol. (I have no problem with it--ie random strangers chatting with you because you have an outrageously loud outfit--but the family prefers to blend in and hide....)

Hmmm....

Looks like most jacket patterns are between 2 1/4 and 2 1/2 yards for my size. Given my sewing skill level, that means I really should by 3 yards, in case of a snafu. #sewing

Okay, decided to go for it... going to attempt at some point to sew myself a soft shell jacket. Starry Skies, lol. Space themed? Something like that. Bought way more than I need, 4 1/2 yards because it's a 9 inch repeating pattern and I don't know what the heck I am doing most of the time. Now I have to go buy zippers. (this of course will cost many times what buying a used one would cost). My goal is approximately the same as this North Face current model, which is the evolved version of the jacket I have here that I will attempt to clone. (minus the cell phone thingie on the shoulder). Full zip, two pockets with zippers. #sewing