Vintage patterns are a blast from the past.
The Search for Vintage Patterns
“Do you have any vintage sewing patterns?” I asked the man working on a display case in an antique shop in Bisbee. I was searching for 1970s patterns; the era of my Kenmore sewing machine. I had a half-baked idea to redo its yellowed, plastic carrying case using the artwork from the envelope covers.
The Search Continues…
The antique dealer looked up from his work, “I’ve got 35 vendors here. I can’t possibly know everything I have in the shop, but I think I saw some sewing patterns back in the corner by the stairway, ”
I’d been in that area just moments before, but I’d check again. The vintage pattern envelopes could be tucked away and easy to overlook.
On the way, I passed a lady who’d been in the store awhile.
“Have you seen any vintage sewing patterns in here?” I repeated my inquiry.
“No, not in here, but I did see some… let’s see… I think at the Goodwill store in Sierra Vista. I’m sure they’d be much cheaper there, anyway.”
“Ok, thanks. Good to know.”
I wasn’t going to Sierra Vista, but I lucked out in the next antique store I entered. The knowledgeable clerk directed me to a small display, and I bought the only two patterns they had for eight dollars each.
The patterns were labeled 1950s. One of the envelopes pictured a fitted bodice with a nipped-in 26 inch waist, and full skirt. Matching accessories, including purse, shoes, and gloves completed the ensemble.
It reminded me of a favorite picture of my mom taken around that time.
1950 Style
I wondered about the sewist who had originally purchased this pattern (for 50 cents). Was she a homemaker like my mom? Would she wear the dress to an afternoon bridge party, church, or PTO meeting at school? Women of that decade dressed up for events like these. It was the era of “day dresses.” The chart on the back of the pattern envelope called for five yards of 35- inch wide gingham, cotton, or linen fabric. Opening the fragile envelope, I discovered the pattern had been used at least once; the tissue paper was cut neatly along the dark blue lines, and tiny holes indicated the pattern had been pinned to the fabric before cutting. The pattern was precisely folded and placed back into the envelope along with the complete set of directions.
The End of an Era
I’ve changed my mind about cutting up the pattern covers. They are a blast from the past, a clue to a lifestyle, a moment in time, that no longer exists. Today’s lifestyles are much more relaxed and our clothing choices reflect that.
I might, however consider making the cute red-checked dress… just as soon as I get my waistline whittled down to 26 inches 🙂
Threads of thought:
What would the patterns in your stash or the clothing in your closet say to future generations?
Do certain styles bring back memories?
Any ideas on how to spruce up my sewing machine cover?
Susan says “decoupage it like the milk cans”.
Seriously…I thought about it…
Your Kenmore looks just like my Kenmore. I’ve been lugging the thing around for years, not using it very much, but reluctant to part with it. Same yellowish cover. Heavy. Solid. Nothing fancy. Lots of memories, too. Is it the machine or the memories I don’t want to get rid of?
Isn’t it funny how we attach memories to people, places, and objects. My machine sat in the closet for years waiting for me to retire. We’ve been reunited.
Kenmore made good products!
I agree. The sewing machines they sell today have lots of gadgets on them, but are plastic. I recently took my machine in for a cleaning and it is as good as new.
Recently pulled out my sewing machine my mom bought me as an engagement gift in the 90’s. I started to sew placemats and napkins after a friend showed me how to work the bobbin. The noises it made after she left were concerning. I called the sewing machine spa and made an appointment for 8 weeks out, that is how busy they are! It has never been cleaned and lived in a box for decades. I hope to continue to sew after it gets its makeover. I’ll look to you for inspiration.
I took mine in for a cleaning and tune-up this winter. It’s running well now. It will be worth the wait.
So much fun to read your writing, Debra, and the comments from others, too. You all bring back such memories for me. My Bernina has been attached to my body like an additional appendage for most of my life. I had it shipped to Alaska when I settled in an Eskimo village so I could make my own “Eskimo Parka.”
Back to vintage…I’d been sewing my own clothes since I was nine. Peter Pan collars were my favorite, easy to make shift-style dresses as an adolescent. You won’t see me ever wearing a peter pan collar today though.
Diane, How lucky I am to have found a friend that shares both of my passions: sewing and writing! So glad you came into my life. An “Eskimo Parka and Peter Pan Collars?” NOt on the same article of clothing I’m guessing! LOL. Your sewing skills are way more advanced than mine. I’ll be calling you if I get stuck!