As a vintage pattern seller, it is easy to say that I have at least 1000+ patterns on hand at a time. There is usually something on the pattern that can be used, a skirt, a dress or top, even a sleeve style or collar can be adapted to another current pattern. Vintage patterns carry a wealth of information that newer patterns don’t. Sewing techniques, tips and style ideas abound.
But sometimes, it is very difficult to see the positive for the all to obvious negatives in a pattern.
At first glance, this 1985 Vogue 9238 Maternity pattern looks shapeless and ugly. But lets look at it a different way. The skirt is a simple shape that is very wearable today. The pants are a little short, but that isn’t a big problem, just lengthen the hem! The vest, well, maybe we’ll leave that out of our wardrobe. On to the tunic/dress. Take a look at this current pattern, Vogue 8771.
Anything look familiar? The sleeves! Granted there is a slight difference in shape, but overall the style is the same. Shape the sides of the tunic from our vintage pattern and pair it with a belt and skinny pants. You have a totally up-to-date look!
Moving on to our next pattern, Butterick 6319. Look past the 80’s hair and headband, and what do you see? Flashdance? A bad 80’s exercise class?
Lets look again. Look at the components individually. A basic tank top or tankini top shape, a basic underwear or bathing suit bottom, tights or leggings, a basic tee. Keep in mind that the pattern pieces can be altered slightly to change the fit and style, and the possibilities are almost endless!
At the beginning of this post I said that most vintage patterns have some redeeming qualities. Most. Not ALL. The last pattern I’m going to show you is a 90’s Butterick 4820 Maternity pattern. If you can see the potential in this pattern, please let me know. It is one of the few patterns I have ever come across in the 1000’s of patterns I’ve owned that just screams ‘WHAT WERE THEY THINKING?’ I don’t know about you, but when I was pregnant I FELT like a beachball. I didn’t want to LOOK like one too! This is my entry to Simple Simon's ugly pattern contest.
So now you can see the advantages of a vintage pattern. Look past the poor illustrations or photos on the covers of some of them, and look at the ‘bones’ of the pattern. Everything may not be as it seems at first glance. I like to look at the line drawings first (usually found on the back of the envelope) to see what you are really getting. Let your imagination soar!
To find your perfect vintage sewing pattern, go to my shop, Stitching By Numbers, or check out one of the fabulous vintage pattern shops of my Etsy teamies from Pattern Patter! Please check out our shops on Wednesday March 20th, for our HUGE BLITZ PATTERN SALE for 20% off in my shop and others!
Happy Stitching!
