Remember when my friend tried to watch a show without the chat? He lasted one episode before caving and reading 200 messages, like @jenniferhart said, it becomes part of the show. Now he just accepts the group watch is the real deal.

Felt like wearing a lampshade" is the perfect way to put it, that made me laugh. I've totally been there with stiff fabric, it's so frustrating when a project just fights you the whole time. Willow's tip about fabric softener is a good one, I've also had luck washing thick fabric a couple times with vinegar to help break it down. Really hope your next try goes better, that vintage fabric sounds like it has potential.

What, they didn't mention the jacket is only heat-resistant until you actually wear it near heat? Sounds like they spent all the money on the ads and forgot to make the thing work.

Your "waste of time" comment hits home, I felt the same until a flexible spatula saved my bacon on a busy grill.

Same thing happened to me, my repair attempt just turned it into a paperweight.