The bow detail on the front is hard to see, I know.
Next Up: Vintage Vogue 2636:
Sewing right along...
So I finally finished (except for attaching the buttons) the Simplicity 9978. I'm VERY pleased with it. I'm saving the buttons for a night when I'm watching TV. I even set up my photography backdrop to take the picture. See?
The bow detail on the front is hard to see, I know.
The bow detail on the front is hard to see, I know.
Helping me along...
It's really hard to sew vintage clothing while listening to "modern" music. I didn't realize what was giving me fits until I switched playlists. SRSLY. It's hard to get vintage inspiration while listening to Coolio, Outkast, Fatboy Slim and various and sundry other artists.
However, the minute Nina Simone, Etta James or even Pink Martini come on, suddenly it all starts to flow together perfectly. Hmmm.....
However, the minute Nina Simone, Etta James or even Pink Martini come on, suddenly it all starts to flow together perfectly. Hmmm.....
Summer Sizzle
On Thursday, I finished a dress that I made from a vintage mail order pattern. It was part of a huge haul from 500+ patterns and tons of fabric that my husband picked for me on May 25.
Overall, I'm pretty happy with it. I plan to wear out to dinner on Saturday, my 43rd birthday. Weather permitting, we'll be going to a seafood restaurant with outdoor dining on the river.You can read more about the dress on my blog or my review on PR. http://when-ladies-dressed.blogspot.com/2009/05/summer-sizzle.html
OK, the weather is gorgeous today and I'm heading outside to play baseball with the kids!
Regards,
Kellie R.
Pile of Shame progress
Remember this dress, that I made up a toile for?
I was making it for a wedding in September 2007. It has been rotting in the Pile of Shame for 1.5 years. Can't remember why I loathed it too much to finish... I think the scale of the fabric print is too medium (ie not small or big enough). Plus it's just a bit ho-hum.. I loved this fabric so much but made up it's just a bit blah. But, the frock is exquisitely lined in silk/cotton with French seams and it should not have been ignored so. All it needed was the hem. So I dunnit.
Have dug out another two frocks from the Pile of Shame for finishing. Soon, my pretties.
Mystery Fabric
I'm about to show my utter lack of knowledge of fabrics. I found this at a sale today. Nice pink print on the front and on the back, almost like mole-skin. I'm not sure what it is. It's very thick but pliable. Any suggestions?
Friday Free Pattern
See my blog for a free pattern giveaway, a 1967 McCall, size 18, B 38.
www.adventuresbabysewing.blogspot.com
www.adventuresbabysewing.blogspot.com
Working The Vintage Kinks Out
I wrote about this top before when I first made it but I was never happy with the fit. Though you might not be able to see the difference this top has now been taken in quite a bit at the sides, the neckline width was reduced, the length was cropped, and it received an entirely new facing. I think the most noticeable change is the detail down the front. That was were I had to take a vertical tuck in the front because the neckline was far too wide to be comfortable or to keep from slipping off my shoulders!
I think I now know that I won't be making any more outfits from McCall's 8251 though I still love the "idea" of it so much. Trying to alter this pattern to make it workable has thoroughly frustrated me. I even thought I could find the pattern in the next smallest size and go from there but there is something odd enough about the sleeves and armholes that I'm not sure that would even work.
If anyone out there has made a similar pattern to this one that worked for them, like McCall's 8337, Simplicity 6634 (both below) or something else, please let me know, OK?
McCall's 8337 
Simplicity 6634
Mosaic created with fd's Flickr Toys.
50% Simplicity 6138, 50% Original Creation
That's what I am calling this one. I originally wanted to make this pattern:
What attracted me to it was View 1, with the lovely gorgeous wide neckline and bias roll collar.
But me being me, I certainly couldn't stick to the standard offerings. No. I had to make this out of two way stretch knit polyester (and View 4 is for Two Way Stretch Knits!), so I opted to use the bodice from view 4 with the collar from view 1.
No big deal...except, the pattern was a size 12/32 bust and I am more like a 7/8 Junior Petite/30 bust. I tried my first major attempt at resizing a pattern. I checked my own measurements and then reduced the pattern, but I messed up somewhere. I graded everything down and the bodice fit PERFECTLY...that is, until I added a sleeve, and it suddenly fit more like a straight jacket. Raising one's arm was no longer an option (heck, I could barely get my arm in the sleeve).
So, I opted for sleeveless. I finished the arm holes with bias tape. I also had some issues with my math skills and the length of the bodice was too short...hence the additional panel added to the bottom, also finished in bias tape (this is why I am considering this a 50% original creation...no designer would actually do what I did to this and try to pass it off as a legitimate design).
The fabric was an olive green stretch polyester from the remnant bin, there was only 1 yard and it was $1, so I am considering this my "wearable muslin" and I will probably try this again...with sleeves...after I check my math and add some length and width back into this puppy.
More photos on the blog.
What attracted me to it was View 1, with the lovely gorgeous wide neckline and bias roll collar.But me being me, I certainly couldn't stick to the standard offerings. No. I had to make this out of two way stretch knit polyester (and View 4 is for Two Way Stretch Knits!), so I opted to use the bodice from view 4 with the collar from view 1.
No big deal...except, the pattern was a size 12/32 bust and I am more like a 7/8 Junior Petite/30 bust. I tried my first major attempt at resizing a pattern. I checked my own measurements and then reduced the pattern, but I messed up somewhere. I graded everything down and the bodice fit PERFECTLY...that is, until I added a sleeve, and it suddenly fit more like a straight jacket. Raising one's arm was no longer an option (heck, I could barely get my arm in the sleeve).
So, I opted for sleeveless. I finished the arm holes with bias tape. I also had some issues with my math skills and the length of the bodice was too short...hence the additional panel added to the bottom, also finished in bias tape (this is why I am considering this a 50% original creation...no designer would actually do what I did to this and try to pass it off as a legitimate design).
The fabric was an olive green stretch polyester from the remnant bin, there was only 1 yard and it was $1, so I am considering this my "wearable muslin" and I will probably try this again...with sleeves...after I check my math and add some length and width back into this puppy.
More photos on the blog.
Giveaway ~ Enid Gilchrist pattern book
I'm also taking part in the sewmamasew giveaway. My giveaway prize is an Enid Gilchrist 'Toddlers Clothes' vintage pattern book. There's photos on my blog of some of the patterns featured in the book.
To enter, all you have to do is leave a comment on my 27 May post along with your email or blog details. The contest is open from 27-31 May inclusive with the winner drawn randomly on 1 June. I'll happily ship anywhere worldwide.
GIVEAWAY CONTEST TODAY!!!!
Today is the day! I am participating in the Sew Mama Sew Giveaway Contest. Come to my blog for your chance to win four beautiful yards of this sheer floral fabric. In order to win, first, sign up to be a follower of my Sewing With Trudy blog and then share your favorite sewing tip and your contact information like an email or blog address so I can contact you if you win. The contest will remain open through the 31st. I will choose a winner June 1st. I will put all of the names in a hat and do a random drawing. Anyone can enter. I will ship around the world.
My 8 year old daughter is also doing the giveaway contest on her sewing blog. So be sure and stop by there and sign up to be her follower and give her a sewing tip as well to double your chances of winning.
Simplicity 3486
This is the dress I finished last night:
I used Simplicity 3486, a vintage pattern from the late 50's/early 60's. It came together easily, even with the box pleats and pocket (I'd never made a pocket before.) I messed up on some of the pleats in front, and there's one missing on the right side, where I'm going to add a larger pocket to correspond to the breast pocket. I haven't decided yet how or if I'm going to hem or roll the sleeves, as they're meant to be much shorter.
The waist is tight, the button placement is good and I'm really pleased with the overall result. The broadcloth I used is a little thin, but I really enjoy the color. It only took me two days from start to finish and I'm really excited to wear it around. I found some great vintage-looking buttons which really completed the look for me.
I love seeing everyone else's creations on here! Keep up the great work everybody!
I used Simplicity 3486, a vintage pattern from the late 50's/early 60's. It came together easily, even with the box pleats and pocket (I'd never made a pocket before.) I messed up on some of the pleats in front, and there's one missing on the right side, where I'm going to add a larger pocket to correspond to the breast pocket. I haven't decided yet how or if I'm going to hem or roll the sleeves, as they're meant to be much shorter.The waist is tight, the button placement is good and I'm really pleased with the overall result. The broadcloth I used is a little thin, but I really enjoy the color. It only took me two days from start to finish and I'm really excited to wear it around. I found some great vintage-looking buttons which really completed the look for me.
I love seeing everyone else's creations on here! Keep up the great work everybody!
Alexis' Sewing Machine
A couple of months ago I found my daughter a sewing machine at an estate sale. It's a 1975 Singer Fashion Mate Model 360. It had 7 fashion discs with it and even the table. I brought it home for her to teach her to sew. Today is the day. I've got her learning a straight stitch on it right now. I never realized what a trying job teaching is. I'm not known for my patience. As a matter of fact, I'm know for my impatience. Rather well I might add. I'm glad she's in there working on her own trying to learn how to keep the raw edge of the fabric even with the seam line. She is so stiff in front of the machine. She has plenty of scraps in there to practice on. I'm not above saying that I need some help. Has anyone else taught a nervous 10 year old how to use a mechanical machine? Any pointers are welcomed.
Yes, that is a step stool under the machine. She's too short to reach the peddle on the floor. I can't help but laugh over this. It's too cute to see her in there like that. I'll have to post a picture of her at the machine later.
Introduction
Hello everyone! I have been admiring your blog for several weeks and decided it was time to make some retro creations to show off with you. I am a 28 year old registered nurse. I have been sewing for about 16 years. I really like the idea of making some vintage pieces that are still wearable and relevant today. I look forward to your posts- you provide me lots of inspiration. And very soon I will have pieces to share with you as well!
~Byrdie
~Byrdie
Marian Martin 9359: Take II
All right--I posted earlier this month with the first version of this dress.This is the second version. The shoulder yoke piece was altered to make the neckline fit better and the waist ties were moved up a little (I'm pear-shaped: Slightly high waists look a whole lot better on me). That seems to have totally fixed the fit. I did not put shoulder pads in it, although I think it holds a crisp 1940's shoulder line pretty well without them. I also altered the pockets to have straight, slanted tops instead of sweetheart tops.
The fabric is rust-colored Moda with cream and black simplified floral and large black rick-rack trim. The trim came out particularly well.
I still adore this dress, but I'm forcing myself to move on to others since I have a pretty good collection waiting to be sewn up.
Apron is Finished!
Despite a busy week, I finished my apron! It was a fun and delightful project! I enjoy working on this type of projects in between larger, more involved ones!
Doris is modelling it for me in the picture below. You can read more about it in my blog here. http://when-ladies-dressed.blogspot.com/
I hope everybody has had a great Memorial Day weekend!
Doris is modelling it for me in the picture below. You can read more about it in my blog here. http://when-ladies-dressed.blogspot.com/
I hope everybody has had a great Memorial Day weekend!
Taking a Poll - Shorts or Knee-Length Skirt? Which Shall It Be? You Decide
Vintage Refashioning -- I'm taking a poll. I want to know what you think.
This is a 1970s dress that I found in a thrift store. The attached sparkly top is too tight; so it is in need of refashioning.
After reading the comments from my readers, there have been some good suggestions. (see my blog to read these comments) One suggestion is to turn the skirt part of this dress into shorts or knee pants and use some material for a hat, and a pocket. I could also use the material for a collar to go on another shirt. These are different ideas I am considering.
What do you think? Would you like to see this turned into a knee length skirt or shorts and/or knee pants? Please help me decide.
I also have a yellow vintage skirt that I found at a thrift store that I plan to refashion. Pictures are on my blog. I'd love to know your thoughts on both of these beauties. I am considering everyone's opinions before making a final decision.
Butterick 5209 Retro '47 Re-Issue
I have made two versions of this dress, but I'm only 100% done with this one:
I also made the other one, View B, which has sleeves of a sort and does not have an open back. I've actually worn it, but it's going back for changes. The sleeves are unflattering, and the low-cut bust gaps and does not maintain bra invisibility. I added a pocket to the right side seam in both versions.
See the pattern here.
It comes together quick, and the longest step was cutting. The bodice is self lined (even the sleeved one) so there's a whole 2nd set of pieces to be cut and marked. The skirt has one pattern piece cut 4x, so again, another set of cutting and marking. Even with that, this is a very quick pattern with clear, easy to understand instructions.
I intend to make another halter version in a dark batik fabric because I think I can get it kind of tiki-va-va-voom. I've really wanted a tiki-va-va-voom type dress since I saw this pattern:
Because I'm sure I'll never see that pattern for sale. What are the chances? More over on my blog.
Butterick 4790 aka "The Walk-Away Dress"
Today, I'm showcasing my version of Butterick 4790, the "walk-away dress". I used the reprint of the 1952 pattern. I think I may have cut it a size or two smaller than my size shown, based on the measurements listed on the pattern. It's a little tight around the waist, but that's okay.
I bought the space alien fabric a while ago and had decided I wanted to make it some kind of lining, with the outside being fabric that resembled space. I found one that was flecked with glitter, but the simple black taffeta looks better with it, I think. Even though you're only supposed to edge part of it in bias tape, I did the whole thing with alien-green bias tape (which took somewhere from 3 to 5 packages, I don't quite remember) and I think it adds a nice touch.
This was my first time working with taffeta, and I really love the way that it holds its shape so well. Even without a crinoline, you still get that full effect in the skirt. I think that the final product is out-of-this-world, if you'll pardon the pun.
I bought the space alien fabric a while ago and had decided I wanted to make it some kind of lining, with the outside being fabric that resembled space. I found one that was flecked with glitter, but the simple black taffeta looks better with it, I think. Even though you're only supposed to edge part of it in bias tape, I did the whole thing with alien-green bias tape (which took somewhere from 3 to 5 packages, I don't quite remember) and I think it adds a nice touch.
This was my first time working with taffeta, and I really love the way that it holds its shape so well. Even without a crinoline, you still get that full effect in the skirt. I think that the final product is out-of-this-world, if you'll pardon the pun.
Ch Ch Ch Ch Ch Changes!
Sew Retro will be getting a brand new look at the start of next month so make sure you stop by on the 1st of June!
We will also be launching our first competition which will run for the entire month of June!
Looking forward to showing you the goodies we've got planned!
See you on the 1st!
Anna
We will also be launching our first competition which will run for the entire month of June!
Looking forward to showing you the goodies we've got planned!
See you on the 1st!
Anna
Sales Sales Sales!
I was going to post about the Moms Patterns sale (20% off) but having just looked at A Dress A Day I thought it was best to post a link to Erin's post listing all the Memorial Day sales online!
You can find her huge list here. Me, I've already done my Moms Patterns shopping for the week so I am going to put my hands over my eyes and sing lalalalala until the sales are over!
Happy sewing and buying!
Anna
You can find her huge list here. Me, I've already done my Moms Patterns shopping for the week so I am going to put my hands over my eyes and sing lalalalala until the sales are over!
Happy sewing and buying!
Anna
1940s overalls - Eva Dress Pattern
So this was one pattern I had been after for months & months. I absolutely fel in love with it the first time I saw it, but with shipping too, it was always too expensive for me. A friends aquired the pattern & leant me it so finally I got my overalls!!
I am so pleased with them, and they were easy to make too, I think I will have a pair in every colour! I am now working on the trousers from the same pattern, and just have the turnups to do. An absoluletly wonderful pattern!
xdollydaydreamx
I am so pleased with them, and they were easy to make too, I think I will have a pair in every colour! I am now working on the trousers from the same pattern, and just have the turnups to do. An absoluletly wonderful pattern!
xdollydaydreamx
Melbourne meet-up: Buttonmania sale!
Remember the almighty booty of splendid buttons I got from Buttonmania a while back?? The happiest email in the world showed up in my inbox recently:
Our twice yearly button sale will be taking place from:
Monday 15 June until Saturday 21 June.
We are open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm and Sat 10am-3pm
For those customers who missed out on the special Vintage Button Sale from the depression era, we still have more that will be available at this sale.
We can’t seem to keep up with demand for red tone buttons, so my dyer will be busy getting them done before the sale!
Don’t forget to check out the buckle stocks I have as well as the buttons; you may not be aware of the range we have that is only available during our sales.
Looking forward to seeing you all in the sale room, remember that everything in our regular stock is also 10% off!
*Does not include made-to-order covered items, buttonholes or studio buttons.
Level 2
The Nicholas Building
37 Swanston Street
Melbourne 3000
Moggy and I thought it would be a grand idea to organise a meet-up for anyone in the Melbourne (Australia, not Florida!) CBD that week. We could do lunch. It would be nice. And we could wander back to work with large, clattery bags of buttons like haberdashery chatelaines.
If any Melbourne folks are interested, drop me a line at livebird_at_gmail_dot_com and I'll try to arrange a time and day that suits us all.
70's DENIM DRESS
Hi all, I finished this dress yesterday and love, love, love it! It is from around the 1970's and my first pattern I've tried from that era (the vintage patterns I sew are usually from the 50's). It is made from black denim with a slight stretch to it.
You can read more in depth about this on my blog.
Help! I need somebody!
Not just anybody...
I need the picture and/or instructions for Simplicity 5214 from 1972. Somehow in my last thrift store run, I ended up with almost all the pieces (missing one, maybe an applique?) for this outfit. See my blog for more about this. ;-)
It's a tunic top with cap sleeve and wide pocket that goes across the front like a kangaroo pouch. I have pieces A-F but the pattern paper says "7 pieces given". Supposedly there are two views to the pattern.
I'm willing to bet the missing piece is possibly britches since it's a short tunic and britches could be cut from one piece.
I also have Simplicity 1790 from either 1946 or 1956 but no instructions or envelope. I don't even know how many pieces I'm supposed to have. I have the skirt front/back, sleeve, collar, bodice back and some kick-butt iron on embroidery designs... But no bodice front or sash. Based on what I have from 1950, I'd say that this one is older rather than newer. But it could go either way. It's a child's dress with gathered skirt with back buttoning bodice.
I need the picture and/or instructions for Simplicity 5214 from 1972. Somehow in my last thrift store run, I ended up with almost all the pieces (missing one, maybe an applique?) for this outfit. See my blog for more about this. ;-)
It's a tunic top with cap sleeve and wide pocket that goes across the front like a kangaroo pouch. I have pieces A-F but the pattern paper says "7 pieces given". Supposedly there are two views to the pattern.
I'm willing to bet the missing piece is possibly britches since it's a short tunic and britches could be cut from one piece.
I also have Simplicity 1790 from either 1946 or 1956 but no instructions or envelope. I don't even know how many pieces I'm supposed to have. I have the skirt front/back, sleeve, collar, bodice back and some kick-butt iron on embroidery designs... But no bodice front or sash. Based on what I have from 1950, I'd say that this one is older rather than newer. But it could go either way. It's a child's dress with gathered skirt with back buttoning bodice.
"Target" Tennis Dress
I posted a week or so ago asking for help on how to save this dress - I made a few mistakes involving the scalloped hemline and despite trying all of your suggestions in some form or another, I could not get an end result that didn't scream "Advanced Home Ec Project - Grade C-". Since the fabric was only $1.50 a yard on sale and I had 4 yards, I started over. (Now I need to figure out what to do with the remains of the first dress...the bodice down through the hip area is perfect...maybe a tunic or top is in order).
Anyways - here it is.
The Tennis Dress from Simplicity ©1973; princess seamed in two lengths. I made the longer length dress but used the scallop hem line from the shorter version (which was where my disaster project started). The fabric is a poly-spandex knit with a pique like texture and a lot of stretch. I left out the back zipper since the fabric had enough stretch. I faced it with solid orange quilting cotton to make the scallops more sturdy (the first version had self facing and was rather floppy, and the pattern does not call for any interfacing). I found some cute buttons at JoAnns that were orange with pinkish/purple polka dots on them - you can't see very well in the photos but they matched really well. I also did not attempt to match up the pattern at the princess seams but as a result I got a rather unintentional new pattern by the way the circles offset each other.
I call it the Target dress because with the exception of the color changes, the pattern is essentially a repetition of the store logo.
I think I look like the mom from "The Wonder Years" in this, even though the dress is from a later time period.
More photos on the blog
Mail order 4853
I haven't posted here for a while, but Moggy and I continue to 'sew retro' on our blog.
This frock is my first go at this mail order pattern from "The Carole Clarke Fashion Service".
The fabric doesn't photograph well. It's a houndstooth in red, white and blue.
These mail order patterns have fairly sparse instructions, and this one was a little bit of a puzzle to put together. I will probably make this dress again, as the fabric isn't the best quality and I think it will fall apart after a wash or two. Maybe in a plain fabric next time.
~Kitty
Simplicity 4015 (1952)
The original. I have this weird affection for wrap dresses. I've been chasing this one for a while and finally snagged it off of eBay. Dated 1952. Project photo set here.
It has the biggest pockets I've ever encountered. Not complaining, I just find it amusing.
Can you believe I actually found shoes that match the fabric??
This is shown without shoulder pads or crinoline. I have fairly square shoulders so it fit me just fine without pads (and, frankly, the idea of putting pads in kimono sleeves strikes me as kind of weird). Everything else is made just as the pattern dictated.
This was a nice, easy, pattern. My only minor quibble is that the bodice, since it's simplified, is not very fitted and looks a bit sloppy. Not a lot sloppy, though, and I'll freely admit that it looks much better on a body than it does on a hanger. I was pretty sure it was going to be a shapeless horror when I saw it in pieces, but I was mostly wrong. The back even stays closed better than I expected.
Mom calls this the "Waffle House waitress" dress since I made it with brown trim in a print that includes orange dots amid the blue ones. Ha ha.
Dating Vintage Sewing Patterns
Places like Cemetarian and the Vintage Pattern Wiki are great resources. But don't underestimate the power of the actual pattern itself to tell you a story about where it's from in the timeline. Even a pattern with no copyright date can tell you a lot.
Here's my story...
Always check out those unusual markings/logos or slogans that might appear. You never know where they may take you.
Here's my story...
Always check out those unusual markings/logos or slogans that might appear. You never know where they may take you.
chocolate play dress
this play dress pattern is by Enid Gilchrist. I was working with remnants here and love the way that the retro looking cotton print (which had a lovely,satiny feel but frayed like mad) is set off by the plainer gingham. Yes, browns are an unusual color palette for play wear but I think this looks very smart on Miss 2 (who proved to be the most unwilling model ever!)
You can follow my travels through Enid's many pattern books here.
regards Norma in NZ
Resurrection of My Blog
I thought I'd let folks here know that after nearly a year, I've resurrected my blog.
Of course, many (most?) of you may not have even known that I've had a blog in the first place! LOL
Anyway, here is the link. I'm still trying to work out a few glitches, like why my slide show and pictures are getting cut off. But it's up and running: http://when-ladies-dressed.blogspot.com/
In the meantime, I've started work on a vintage apron. It's something I've been meaning to make for AGES! EVERY proper vintage wife should have one!
I'm using the pattern below and will post more as the project progresses.
Regards, Kellie R.
Of course, many (most?) of you may not have even known that I've had a blog in the first place! LOL
Anyway, here is the link. I'm still trying to work out a few glitches, like why my slide show and pictures are getting cut off. But it's up and running: http://when-ladies-dressed.blogspot.com/
In the meantime, I've started work on a vintage apron. It's something I've been meaning to make for AGES! EVERY proper vintage wife should have one!
I'm using the pattern below and will post more as the project progresses.
Regards, Kellie R.
Grading Pintucks
Anyone know if there is a science to grading the pintuck portion of a pattern? I'm having to grade this pattern up quite a few sizes and have picked a heck of a pattern to practice my grading on. It is a bust size of 34", I'm taking it to 43". I know I'm gonna have to add a buttonhole or two in the end. I may even have to add a tuck in there. Just looking for tips and tricks.
Retro Bathing Suit
Hi all.
I'm actively looking for a retro bathing suit pattern. I hope to find something from the fifties (one piece) I need a pattern that will fit a bust size 36". I've checked all the vintage pattern companies from the dress a day blog. I've checked ebay.
Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. I took the wardrobe refashion pledge, I am refraining from buying the item new (at least that is the plan).
Melynda
I'm actively looking for a retro bathing suit pattern. I hope to find something from the fifties (one piece) I need a pattern that will fit a bust size 36". I've checked all the vintage pattern companies from the dress a day blog. I've checked ebay.
Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. I took the wardrobe refashion pledge, I am refraining from buying the item new (at least that is the plan).
Melynda
DuBarry 743B
Howdy! I finished a very adorable blouse today from an old DuBarry pattern (early/mid 1930's):
Hello everyone! Another intro
I am so honored to be in the company of beautiful people who share my passion for vintage and retro clothing! I have been collecting vintage patterns for about 7 years. It all started when I decided to be a 70's diva for Halloween. I couldn't find anything off the rack that was quite what I wanted. I have been sewing for close to twenty years, so I knew I could make a costume better than any RTW. I had actually been sewing my Halloween costumes for years (much cheaper). I went on ebay and found a set of vintage patterns that were just what I wanted. Once I caught the fever of buying those patterns I couldn't stop! I made the suit I was married in, and I have never received as many compliment on a garment I wore.
Since those early days, I have made a few truly vintage patterns, but now I have come full circle again and I have really been making quite a few outfits that I will share here as well.
I look forward to interacting with everyone here, and I hope that my skills as a retro sewist will grow.
Thanks, Pavlina
Since those early days, I have made a few truly vintage patterns, but now I have come full circle again and I have really been making quite a few outfits that I will share here as well.
I look forward to interacting with everyone here, and I hope that my skills as a retro sewist will grow.
Thanks, Pavlina
Vintage Sewing Patterns Wiki Update
Have you checked out the Vintage Sewing Patterns Wiki lately? More than 17,000 patterns have been submitted! Many contributors and editors have helped to tidy up the category tags, so it's even easier to find patterns with your favorite features. It's awesome! I could spend days hitting the Random Page button!
The recent post about requesting specific patterns to be reproduced as Vintage Vogue patterns reminded me to go check out the "Wishlist" category on the wiki. I think that the Wishlist would be an easy grassroots way for us to tell the modern pattern companies what we, their loyal and vintage pattern obsessed customers, are craving. Of course, calling or emailing them individually works too.
More than 200 patterns are on the wishlist. However, only a handful of people have tagged patterns for their wishlist, so the list is currently heavily skewed toward mod 1960's Vogue designer patterns, like Vogue 1418. (Nice, but not my thing. How about you?) The pattern with the most wishes (four as of right now) is Butterick 6737, which is a 1950's dress style more in line with the patterns that have made it into recent reproduction.
If you have some time, you might want to cruise through a few patterns and tag them for the wishlist. It's another way to let the pattern companies know what we like and what we want to see on the market!
Also, don't forget that you can add your pictures of completed projects to a pattern's page, and then tag it for the gallery! I know that more than four people have made the Walk-Away Dress - where are your pictures?
On a more personal note, I start maternity leave next week (due date is tomorrow, no baby yet!) and I hope to get some retro projects going while I'm home - especially Simplicity 8125! Updates will be posted here and at my blog, Chronically Uncool.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)