I had a lot of fun combining machine stitching with the hand-sewing techniques I learned here! I quilted it on the machine (obviously... I don't think anyone has that kind of time), but when it came to assembling the jacket it was a PERFECT situation for practicing the English Stitch, as I had to sew together pattern pieces with their lining. I used the good ol' running stitch to baste them together, and then was impressed beyond belief at how fast, simple, and strong the English seams were. I then proceeded to blanket stitch around the entire edge rather than topstitching or hemming on the machine. I am so pleased with the results, both aesthetically and in the way the stitch binds up all those fraying woolen ends! I also put in a worked bar to reinforce the slits in the sleeve (a throwback to the previous class, wink wink). I love how these stitches give me a toolbox to do so many things--solve problems, put my own spin on a garment, and make a prettier finish. Thank you for the confidence you inspire, Bernadette!