I love vintage sewing patterns!  They offer so much style and design that I just can’t help myself!  First it was one or two, then more struck my fancy.

Many of the pattern brands now offer updates of old patterns such as Vintage Vogue and McCall’s Archive Collection.  The great thing with these patterns is that the sizing has been updated.  For me, the problem is that many are 1950s era patterns, and I like the clean lines of 1960s dresses.

Etsy and eBay offer many opportunities to buy brand new, vintage uncut patterns.  They are more expensive than a regular pattern, ranging from $20 to$75 for some.  A company in the UK sells copies of old patterns, which are reasonably priced.

If you purchase an old pattern, you may need to alter the sizing to fit you.  I need to do this for a couple of mine.  I will start by getting copies made.  There is a place locally that copies house plans and says they also do sewing patterns.  Then if I mess up, I won’t have ruined the original.

I have always loved Jackie Kennedy’s White House era looks, and these vintage patterns offer me the chance to make my own!

What to consider when buying vintage patterns:

1.  Sizing is different than modern pattern sizing.  Be sure and read the measurements.  I need one size larger than what I need in modern patterns.
2. Vintage patterns usually only have one size and one style in an envelope.
3. Don’t be afraid to alter the pattern to fit you.
4. Look for envelopes that are in good condition.  If the pattern has been wet, it may have ruined the thin pattern paper.
5. Look for uncut patterns.  It is more likely to have all the pieces.  The first owner may have altered the pattern so that it won’t work for you.
6. Keep in mind what fabrics will work for the pattern.  You may choose to modernize the garment with the fabric you choose.
7. Find a brand or line that you like.  I have fallen in love with Vogue Couturier Design patterns, which were designed by different designers from around the world. These were sold with “Vogue” labels and sometime you can find them still with the pattern.

I can’t wait to collect more vintage patterns!

To read more of collection of vintage Vogue patterns, check out this post.