Category: Pattern book

Free 1949 flat patternmaking book available!

Thanks to the Internet Archive, vintage sewing and fashion enthusiasts can download a PDF version of How to design beautiful clothes, by Esther Pivnick. The book was published in 1949.

The patternmaking system used is the same as what was taught at the Traphagen School of Design in New York City. This book offers a complete guide to taking measurements, creating basic patterns and then transforming them.

Even if you do not use the pattern drafting system, there are details and pattern transformations that can be experimented with using your own sloper. It is well worth it to download a PDF version as the original book sells for over $100 when in good condition.

Here are screen shots from the book. I was surprised to see that the skirt is similar to the result I obtained when using the Precision Draping technique from the 1947 book by Nellie Weymouth Link. There is a slight flare to the skirt. It is not the straight, tubular shape of the 1950s basic skirt.

Here are screen shots from How to design beautiful clothes which show the resulting basic front and back bodices; back and front skirt patterns; and a diagram showing the measurements needed.

Marfy “Evergreen” Edition

The Marfy pattern books are published by Marfy Studio Stilistico in Ferrara, Italy. Each edition comes with a free, multi-sized pattern. The illustrations are detailed enough so that dressmakers and patternmakers can get ideas for their own projects.

Along with the exquisite illustrations, there are fabric recommendations. The color combinations are sometimes striking, other times subdued. There is something for every style preference. The illustrations include jewelry, shoes, hats, handbags that complete all the must know details to create your own version of the look.

I recently bought the “Evergreen” collection catalogue. It includes Marfy pattern illustrations from the past and the present. There is a wide variety of looks from evening wear to casual wear. Many outfits consist of skirts, slacks, blouses and a various styles of coats and jackets. The lines are simple which make for a look that will last beyond current trends.