Pattern Making -- Drafting 1930s Lingerie, Blouses, Skirts and Sp­ortswear Fashions Paperback – January 1, 2009

This book is a reprint of a 1930's British book on pattern making. It tells people how to make several basic patterns based on their measurements, then elaborate on them to make more than a simple slip or kimono or underwear. The pattern styles may be from the 1930's but the basic patterns can be modernized to make lovely nightgowns, camis, pajamas, and retro-inspired dresses. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to make original clothing with a very feminine twist.

My review is based on my personal experience using the drafting system and pattern transformations in this book. I followed the chapter on taking measurements using my Wolff professional dress form size 8. The basic patterns for what is called The Magyar and the simpler wraps turned out acceptable, but not outstanding. The results were very loose and could easily be made using a modern day sloper and transforming for a mounted (a/k/a grown-on) sleeve.I then tried drafting the basic skirt pattern. Following the instructions I ended up with a very large back dart on the skirt. I divided the width into three separate darts. Still the skirt did not fit well across the front. The front ended up not being dartless but needing one dart on each side of center front. The resulting skirt was wide at the bottom but did not have the flow and movement of a modern A-line or flared skirt.There must be adjustments that could be made but overall I did not find the effort worthwhile. I used up a lot of pattern paper and muslin to test the results of this patternmaking system. I could have adapted my modern slopers.This book does have value for the historical information it provides. Also the illustrations of the transformations can serve as a guide to drafting or adapting any modern patternmaking system to get similar results.

… then this is great find. It is easy to understand and fun to read with great pictures of wonderful lingerie. I sat right down and was able to draft a pattern and that was a thrill. This is a treasure!

This little book is a truly gem among other fashion design books! If you are obsessed with vintage fashion and feminine silhouettes, this book is must-have. There are no patterns included, but you will be explained how to make your own with your measurements. I would definitely recommend it to everyone who has some confidence with sewing. Anyway, 10 stars from 5!!!!

I purchased this as a gift. It was a huge hit!

No patterns here, very good instructions on making your own, to your measurements. Included are ways to make basic garments and customize them to suit you. This is NOT a learn to sew book, it's definitely for more experienced seamstresses.

Very disappointed

In plain and simple words, this book encourages all ages to pursue their creative talents. Most important thing I learned from this is how to achieve a good cut and sew something that fits ME. I really don't need to buy a pattern, can make my own. This book eliminates unnecessary advice the upcoming teens and tweens are getting. Go for it ladies- there is nothing that should hold an individual back from attaining good tailored clothing not from a foreign country- be America's next fashion designer.