Saturday, November 24, 2012

Ready to Go!

Logistical problems earlier this fall caused me to put this pattern on hold so I could stay on schedule with the others I had to issue.
I am happy to say this 1936 swing dress is ready to go in sizes 14 - 42!
The shoulder yoke is in one with the collar and the drop sleeve makes for smart detailing.

Friday, November 9, 2012

New Multi-Size (and Original) Patterns Posted, 'Wrapping Up' the end of the year!

I issued an update to my e-mail members today to let everyone know I have a couple new patterns ready in multi-size.  They are:

The 1929 Evening Wrap by McCall


and the 1943 Wrap Dress


Right now, the wrap dress is in a limited set of sizes due to the fact it was part of a custom grading order, but next year is about adding sizes in multi-size patterns that are already available, so stay tuned!
I have also re-done the original vintage pattern pages.  When one clicks on an original vintage pattern image, a .pdf will load of both front and back of the envelope in large detail.  Be advised, they will take time to load on that account.
Here are a few examples of the recently added originals:





I am still in process of up-grading the pattern pages throughout the site and it will take time to complete, but things are looking really great with the improved graphics and format.

I'll have more updates coming about exciting things you can expect for the New year, but let's not all wish 2012 away too quickly.  I wish everyone well as we come up on the holiday(s) season, cheers!

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

New Multi-Size Pattern

I have yet to officially send notice to my customer list regarding this addition to the multi-size patterns.  I was doing so in light of the difficulties for everyone out East on account of Sandy.
It is the 1929 Evening Wrap by McCall, in sizes Small (32" to 34" bust) to X-Large (44" to 46" bust):

THREADS Magazine Connection

I have advertised (also contributed a large article regarding vintage patterns and have been reviewed) in Taunton's THREADS Magazine for nearly 10 years.
I felt making a series of blog posts to highlight connections between their feature technical articles and my vintage patterns is well overdue.
So, here is the first of what will be an ongoing series you can find here in my posts:

In THREADS December/January 2013, issue #164, the technical feature article by Judith Neukam covers a technique for a banded armseye on pages 28 - 29.

Patterns in my collection on which this would be a stunning detail are the 1930 Vogue evening gown:

-and-
The 1936 McCall dress:

while Judith's article is about the embellishing of the armseye, I will go further to say that customer's have asked me about the coverage (or lack thereof) below the arm in this style of sleeve.
Per 1930's advice, a close-fitting slip is worn under the dress to hide any exposed parts of the body under such a generous armseye.
I have not tried this banded technique on this style of sleeve, although I have bound it in contrasting double bias binding for a stunning detailing finish.
I look forward to feedback from any of you who have put this banded technique to the test, it is very classy!

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

New Multi-Size Pattern

Have this one now available in sizes 12 - 16 (30" to 34" bust) from a custom order.
I will add more sizes early next year and keep you all posted!

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Patterns Update

I posted this extra cute blouse and apron pattern as the new multi-size: In addition, I posted several original patterns, among them are patterns I picked from Michelle at OldPatterns.com.  Here is a little example of what she has in the 1920's/30's McCall originals:
.

Michelle is the first one I ever bought vintage patterns from when I started in the late '90's. It was really great to work with her again this year and I recommend you take a look at what she may have for you! Also have a look at a blog post about her Here.

Friday, August 31, 2012

A Personal Project

I searched YEARS for a similar skirt style made by McCall in the mid-30's:


When I obtained this '29 McCall, I knew I had to put the skirt pieces to use right away!  I need a good skirt to go with a kimono-style top I am finishing from a contemporary McCall's pattern for this Thanksgiving.  I am drawn to how architectural the lines of the skirt are (and funny, I will be dining with architects for that holiday!).
This is the charmeuse print I have:
The skirt will coordinate well in chocolate wool crepe, yuuuuuummmmmmm.