Northern Plains Blanket Capote Pattern is a traditional style capote worn by most western tribes and Mountain men. Can be made from blankets for authenticity or heavy wool fabric. Includes several options for fringe treatment, decorations, etc., and is easy to make. Sizes 36-52.
NOTE: This pattern requires a blanket 66" x 76", or heavy felted wool to make a Capote up to size 42.
Ideal for re-enactors, TV and film costume makers, and western enthusiasts.
The pack includes paper pattern templates and instructions
Can be machine stitched - use Leather Machine Needles or hand stitched using a Glover's needle
About Your Plains War Shirt Pattern
Called “Capote” after the French word for “hood”, blanket coats like this originated in central Canada and were probably made as early as 1675. These popular style coats are standard issue during the French and Indian War and the American Revolution and many times were made by the soldiers from issue blankets. By the mid-19th century, the popularity of the Capote had spread westward with the fur trade and it was commonly seen in use by the Indians of the Northern Plains, Rocky Mountains and Columbian Plateau. There were also many commercially made Capotes available. For instance, in 1824, a St. Louis newspaper carried an ad from an outfitter listing “Red Blanket Coats for Sale”.
Since many Capotes were “home-made”, they varied greatly in cut, style and decoration, with the Indian models being decorated with beadwork, sequins, hawk bells, binding of contrasting colour, etc. Some Capotes even contained a cotton lining of calico or similar print fabric; however, most examples were hardly decorated other than having fringe at the shoulders and hood.
This practical coat is as popular with today’s Buckskinners and Indian Enthusiasts as it was in previous times. No doubt this is due to the great versatility of the garment as well as it’s colourful style. When made from a heavy Rocky Mountain Blanket, it will shed light rain or snow, can be worn over several layers of clothing in extreme cold weather and can double as an extra blanket if needed. This light, warm and comfortable Capote, complete with hood is a pleasure to own and use.
