Has anyone ever worked with unprinted vintage patterns?

I got a new sewing passion this Christmas. Vintage patterns. However, I've never worked with the unprinted variety. Have any of you worked with them? Do you have any tricks that might make it easier when I try to sew with them?

I've already discovered that the sewing instructions are next to useless. But the styles are so great, I just keep buying them.

Thanks, Kelly

Reply to
Kelly
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Dear Kelly,

I used them when there were not any others. And several years ago, I found a treasure trove of such patterns in a costume shop that was being thoroughly cleaned for the first time in many, many years. I had my students choose one and make it up for our fashion show, which had a vintage design section this year. It was the highlight of the show.

Three holes in a triangle means this edge should go on a fold; two large holes near the top center and bottom center of the pattern piece means that they should be aligned along the straight grain of the fabric.

I can't remember them, but if you'd tell me what symbols you don't understand, I may be able to help you. It might help to find some contemporary sewing books at your library or online. These patterns were used from the late nineteenth century through the 1950s.

Teri

Reply to
gjones2938

Double notches go on the back and single notches on the front. This convention is still used with printed patterns, but mostly only on sleeves.

Joy Beeson

Reply to
Joy Beeson

Hi , I have many vintage patterns and i really enjoy using them. One thing i highly recommend is to make a copy out a light interfacing so you preserve the fragile patterns.Also they are really easy once you get the hang of them.A strategy that could be helpful is to buy an old sewing manual from the 40's 30;s etc and use it to get the feel of the era's sewing technique. the small holes are usually tailor tacks. Also if you ever want to trace and trade designs!? I would love to find some people who could be interested in that .I had a friend trace a pattern for me from the 20's and it came out wonderfully. I have a pattern collection going back to 1907:) happy sewing Stephanee

Reply to
froggie lover

This sounds very interesting! Do you have any photos up anywhere of your creations using these patterns?

Reply to
Pogonip

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