Barb
I am a believer if you like a particular outfit, but only if it is worn alot, take it completely apart documenting every step and video taping if need be, and use the pieces as a pattern. Working backwards as you document/writing everything down. I have made several favorite articles using this method and every one of them turned out lovely. I even did this method to a favorite pair of my daughters jeans and she was thrilled. I also used one of my favorite old bathing suit as a pattern when I couldn't find a nice suit in the stores to purchase. It is worth the time and effort just because you will have something in the end that you love. Sandy

I would say the same thing, except to take half the jacket apart, and keep the other half for reference. The collar will have to come off, of course. There are various books that outline other methods, but I've never been as happy with those as using the actual garment. it's just so much easier to get the final accurate measurements and the grain line, too.

Thank you so much for the comments. I am reluctant to do this because I am still wearing the jacket but I did go on line and found a book called Making Patterns From Finished clothes and ordered it from Amazon. Will report later if I am disappointed when I get it. I have taken slacks apart and made new ones, but they are usually old ones that I no longer wear. Barb

Got the book. It is a really good book but it does not show how to copy using something already made. I am going to try and trace on pellon, but I don't know how it will go. Barb

I have an excellent book with detailed instructions & pix for copying patterns from finished garments. I have no idea of the cost--it's hard cover (lge book) with 127 pages,,,I found at a garage sale. It was published in 1996 by Sterling Publishing Co., Inc-NY. The title: Patterns From Finished Clothes by Tracy Doyle Oh, I see you already have it. It is the best I am aware of, short of taking a garment apart--which I have done many times, and then re-sew together again.