Besides the clothes rack, my biggest preoccupation whilst digging through thrift stores is vintage patterns. While yes, part of the motivation is that I do sew, and thus am always on the hunt for some new and “exciting” style to whip up, I do love collecting them for their graphics! (Because honestly–I don’t think I could ever sew all of the patterns–although I’d like to think I could! hehe!)
They’re little time-capsules of previous eras and fashion styles. I love seeing how not only the trends have changed for the home seamstress, but also the sewing techniques!
I also feel a slight connection to the ladies who owned these patterns before me. I think the best patterns are the ones that have pin markings, notes, or even just simple circles around the size they needed to cut out! (Something I do!)
I also occasionally light upon a “how-to” booklet from the 1950s or 1960s. I love flipping through them for ideas and inspiration! Look at some of these pages:
See more vintage-pattern goodness here and here!
[ Read the other Nifty-Thrift posts here. ]
April 1, 2008 at 5:59 pm
I’m loving your week of Nifty-Thrift posts!
April 2, 2008 at 11:42 am
I think the best patterns are the ones that have pin markings, notes, or even just simple circles around the size they needed to cut out!
I’m the same with used books. I once found a family photograph and a restaurant recipt wedged in a novel I bought at a used bookstore, and thought it neat that someone’s “mark,” so to speak, was left behind when I “inherited” the book.
I agree — so long as the markings, etc. aren’t super extensive.
Nifty-Thrifty is a neat idea — I’m looking forward to future posts!
April 2, 2008 at 2:56 pm
Vintage patterns are so cool! I do like the graphics too and it’s such a neat idea that someone before you once chose that pattern in a store, bought it, maybe made it, and now you have it in your possession.
April 2, 2008 at 4:27 pm
I totally get what you mean when you say you feel a connection with those previous owners! I too like sewing patterns for the wonderful illustrations on the front!
How wonderful!
Thanks for sharing!
April 2, 2008 at 6:03 pm
I really like reading your blog. I adore all the thrifty finds, the vintage pics and sewing patterns and whatever creations you come up with. I wish I could sew and be more thrifty.
So thanks for your dose of inspiration for me =)
Gracie
April 3, 2008 at 2:26 pm
Oh, I remember those days of daydreaming about my one day wedding! So so sweet! The “what if” memories are some of my fondest.
So, about vintage finds, I purchased a cream cashmere knee length coat lined in peach satin for $7 at a thrift in Berkeley CA. Yipee!