Finally we are constructing! I started construction on a sloper of my vest design. A sloper is a pattern that you are adjusting until it fits as intended. I am modifying a pattern called "Show-Me! Patterns: McCall's New Visual Sewing System" pattern 5751. 

I duplicated the pattern onto parchment paper using spice jars as my weights (gotta use what you've got). Once I got into the costume shop I copied the patterns onto muslin, cut out the pieces, and sewed them together as instructed by the pattern. From there, I have been using a mannequin of similar proportions to slowly adjust the vest until it reflects my intended design! Depending on how my sloper looks, I may use it as a lining for my vest to add some stability to the somewhat flimsy red satin fabric I purchased for the vest.