Collecting Vintage Sewing Patterns
Using a Pattern from the Past to Build a Contemporary Wardrobe
With a collection of vintage sewing patterns, the seamstress can wear those fashions from the past. A 30s bias-cut gown for the prom or an Edwardian tea dress to wear to a summer garden party will make the wearer a star. And these old patterns are easily available today.
The Allure of Collecting Vintage Sewing Patterns
People collect vintage sewing patterns for a variety of reasons.
- They represent fashion history in most direct way. Patterns known as "cut" were actually made by someone.
- The fashions can be remade with contemporary textiles and worn.
- The envelopes can be framed as wall art.
- They are beautiful and generally offer well-tailored designs.
- They are nostalgic reminders of gentler times.
- They have value for a number of reasons and are worthy of investment.
Antique Sewing Patterns
While the first functioning home sewing machine wasn't available for the masses until the mid-19th century, it wasn't until the the 1860s when the first paper patterns were made available. Victorian fashion magazines began to introduce patterns with every issue as well as mail-order. Sized and printed Butterick tissue patterns were made available about this time. These very early patterns are rare, but can still be found.
Sewing Patterns to Collect
Many owners of these pattern are unwitting collectors. The vintage patterns purchased are generally bought to make the dress and the pattern is saved. It's an easy beginning.
Many collectors look for specific patterns, like 30s evening gowns, Victorian clothing, 40's dresses or accessory patterns for hats or aprons.
Buying Tips for Collectors
Patterns that offer the best investment for the collector and those in very good condition. The pieces inside the envelope will be uncut (unused) and have their original factory folds.
Most vintage patterns will show wear on the printed envelope, perhaps stains, slightly torn edges, fading or yellowing. If the wear in minor, it's worth adding to a collection.
If buying online, ask questions of the seller if the size isn't mentioned or whether or not the pattern is intact. Missing pieces lower the value, making it very difficult to use if it's missing a template for right sleeve or the collar.
Vintage Sewing Pattern Price Guide
Prices vary greatly, depending on rarity for the most part. But they also vary depending on the fashion itself and how it fits with today's fashion trends.
Circa 1930s bias-cut evening gown patterns have been popular in recent years, some fetching up to $400. Most are priced between $25 and $100.
Some Vogue Paris Original Patterns are priced at $100 or more depending on the designer. Recently an Yves Saint Laurent Vogue Paris Original pattern sold for over $300 on eBay. This is a rare value. Most VPOs sell for much less than $100.
40s and 50s evening gowns are very collectible and are generally priced between $25 and $100.
Patterns for Edwardian hats can be found for as much as $50 or more and vintage apron patterns are just as expensive.
Most vintage patterns from the 30s to the 70s aren't priced nearly this high and the selection is massive. Expect to pay up to $10 for most vintage patterns in vintage clothing stores or antique shops.
Where to Find Vintage Sewing Patterns
Thrift shops nearly always have vintage sewing patterns for sale and they are usually priced at less than $1 each if not 25 cents.
Estate auctions are also great venues to search out vintage sewing patterns. If there is little interest from other bidders, the collector may be able to pick them up for a very low price.
For collectors looking for something special, online auctions as well as online vintage sewing pattern stores have 100s if not 1000s listed. EBay is a great source for vintage patterns, because the collector can buy them in large lots and she'll enjoy pouring through them when the package arrives.
References
- Blueprints of Fashion: Home Sewing Patterns of the 1940s, Wade Laboissonniere, Schiffer Publishing, 2008
- So Vintage Patterns
- Butterick
40s Simplicity Cape and Hat Pattern
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30s Du Barry Sewing Pattern
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30s McCall's Child's Dress Pattern
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