Dating vintage sewing patterns

How do you date Vintage sewing patterns?

Not all of the major companies dated their vintage sewing patterns in the same way. Some placed the dates on the envelopes, some placed the dates on the instruction sheets & others didnt date the patterns at all. It is easy to find a printed date on a vintage pattern to determine the date.

Why use Vintage sewing techniques?

Although they require more time and effort than some of our modern methods, in some cases using the vintage sewing techniques your pattern intended can yield you a better-looking, more authentic garment. Here are a few old-time methods to embrace:

Why do people collect vintage patterns?

Some collect vintage patterns because they want to reproduce the styles of days gone by for their wardrobes. Others collect them because these slim envelopes filled with tissue give a glimpse into a lifestyle that many of us no longer have the luxury to live. They are, in, and of themselves, a documentation of fashion sewing of the past.

Is it worth it to Buy Vintage sewing patterns?

Learning about vintage sewing patterns is a ongoing process, and the more you learn yourself, the better youll be able to evaluate online sources. How much to spend One of the joysof collecting vintage sewing patterns is that its a relatively inexpensive hobby: pricing on vintage patterns starts at just a few dollars.

Where can I find a Vintage sewing pattern dating guide?

The general vintage sewing pattern dating guide at Cemeterianis organized by decadeand include photos of patterns, pattern catalogs and fashion magazines, giving you a good sense of the styles. Rita uses the same decade organization for individual pages covering the major pattern makers, with more photos and a bit of company history thrown in, too.

How can I tell what year a pattern is made?

Look for a particular design feature on the envelope to determine the era of the pattern. McCall switched to McCalls in 1951. Vintage pattern magazines or vintage pattern catalogs can be used for comparison. The original cost of the pattern. One thing to consider is a more elaborate style equaled a higher price. 1960s name logo moved to the side.

How much are old sewing patterns worth?

If you’ve got vintage sewing patterns from a famous designer or from certain styles or periods, they can sell for a $25, $50, or even more. It just depends on the rarity of the pattern and whether you can find the right buyer for it. The real money in selling old sewing patterns is selling them in bulk.

What is the easiest pattern to date?

The easiest patterns to dateare those from McCalls and Simplicity. Nearly all McCalls patterns are dated somewhere on the envelope, and the majority of Simplicity patterns from the 1940s are too (for 1940s and 1950s patterns, check the instruction sheet; from 1964 on, check the envelope).

How much are old sewing patterns worth?

Can I get a cheaper copy of a vintage pattern?

It is often the case that our customers find vintage sewing patterns that they like but are too expensive for them to purchase. If so, just let us know and we will consider buying it to add to our collection, enabling you to get a much cheaper copy of the pattern from us.

Do they still make sewing patterns?

There are four large pattern companies still making sewing patterns today: Butterick, McCall’s, Simplicity and Vogue. These are also the most commonly found vintage patterns, though there were dozens of smaller companies who produced some wonderful designs.

Is the vintage pattern shop open for business?

The Vintage Pattern Shop remains open for business. We are posting domestic and worldwide international shipping daily. Open and Delivering to the World! Sending Love, Blessings and Prayers to the Entire World! Welcome to The Vintage Pattern Shop. We are the largest company in the world supplying reproduced vintage sewing patterns.