Sewing with Marian Martin Patterns
Marian Martin patterns, 232 West 18th Street, New York, NY arrived to the home seamstress via postal service. They were generally unmarked and perforated.
Perform preliminary Work
- Gather all of the pieces needed to construct the garment you’re making. Be aware that it’s not uncommon for vintage sewing patterns to require pattern pieces which aren’t actually included with the pattern itself. For example, gussets and sashes. You may have to draft those pieces yourself.
- Iron pattern pieces
At this point it’s a good idea to cut in notches and other pattern markings so they’re noticeable and easier to see when it’s time to mark pattern pieces.
If you don’t have professional pattern making tools you can use a hole-punch, exacto knife and scissors as substitutes.
- I.D. Pattern Pieces
- Write the name of each pattern piece directly onto each pattern piece.
- The center fold line (or arrows) directly on appropriate pattern pieces.
- The number of pattern pieces to cut.
- Any other helpful information you find necessary to help in identifying pieces or making construction easier.
Read instructions carefully
The instruction on many vintage sewing patterns aren’t very detailed because it was assumed most women of the day have a solid sewing know-how foundation. While most vintage sewing patterns are relativity easy to make, you may need to sort through the wording and some unfamiliar terms.
Layout fabric (work in muslin initially) and pattern pieces according to instructions
Cut out pattern pieces
Precision cutting when making any garment is vital to a well-made garment. Take your time.
Mark pattern pieces carefully
I use a red marking pencil and a pattern marker.
Construct the complete garment in MUSLIN making necessary changes and alterations to the muslin as needed.
Construct the final garment in fabric of your choosing after you’re satisfied with results of the muslin.
