News — 1930's

but here is another hidden gem pattern! In 2014, I started adding some single-size patterns I drafted long ago, but for whatever reason hadn't issued.  I call them 'Hidden Gems'.  This is one I pulled from the file drawer and digitally drafted for the set of Gilets, originally by Pictorial Review in the mid-1930's.   The reason I never put it out?  I simply did not make a color reproduction of the envelope art and it was missing a piece I had to create.  Thus, I offer it in black and white, also see last week's post on re-creating a...

I am putting this dress & jacket pattern out in multiple sizes a few months from now.   I began planning the pattern work up last year as I needed to complete the missing jacket back piece to make it available.  Luckily, I had a little something similar (and in the same size) from which to base the missing piece (also a Simplicity), shown below.  Doesn't always happen this way, but definitely make the process smoother.   The key here was to use enough of the jacket back piece from this design to make up what is just a side...

It is a joy to come across an extant example originally made from a pattern I have reproduced to offer in my collection!  This example was posted on OMG that dress! (from Kerry Taylor Auctions) in 2013: The pattern dates to 1930 and was originally by McCall.  It is the evening gown pattern E30-6298.  I added it to my collection in early 2008: This is a slip-on gown (that is, no side placket to hook or snap) with only an opening at the left hip which is closed via the side-tie (and it works!).  The hem is uneven with a...

To wrap up my 'Raven Takes Flight this Year' series, shots of the final ensemble with each layer revealed. The panniers I created following The Dreamstress's pannier-along: The silk petticoat I pleated to show under the skirt (too large to fit the dress form well, but the idea is there.  the original 1930's pattern from which this is based has you gather the over skirt and this 'under skirt'.  I will likely stick to the original instructions when I multi-size the pattern and leave such modifications to the maker.   I have another petticoat to construct as this one (yet...

Well not exactly Christmas, but it can feel a little that way when I receive patterns from some generous person who offers vintage pattern styles to make available via my services. These are four of many AMAZING patterns in Alyssa's collection (see her here at VintageorBust). A little run down on why I chose each one (click images for a larger view): Knowing I want to fill in my 1920's offerings (pre-1929) I asked for this 1928 McCall.   I saw in this one an opportunity for flattering and interesting lines packaged in a simple sheath style great for any sewing...