How to ruin a vintage sewing pattern collectible
More information on vintage sewing patterns.You ask, “Why would anyone want to ruin a sewing pattern?”
Recently, I came into a very large stash of vintage sewing patterns. The seller had taken each pattern envelope opened it by cutting it in half, then pasted envelope onto a large manila envelope. The pattern pieces were stuffed inside.
Many of the patterns were from the 1940s!
When I asked what happened, she said, “So they’d fit nicely into the file cabinet.”
Ughhhh!
Ladies and gentlemen, please leave the pattern in its original condition.
Of course, I brought them anyway. Like any pattern obsessed collector. I can use them solely for sewing.
Here are other ways to ruin a vintage sewing pattern, especially collectibles:
1. Unfolding factory fold patterns because at that point they’re no longer factory fold.
2. Improper storage. Take a little time to properly story your patterns to protect them from damage.
3. Many vintage sewing patterns contain markings on the envelope and sometimes the pattern pieces. This isn’t uncommon. It’s okay. Authentic hand marked envelopes and pattern pieces give character to collectibles and don’t generally take anything away from value. Sewing patterns are useful tools. They were meant to be used in sewing and they were.
What’s not okay is for a seller to receive a pattern then mark the pattern with business information. Pencil can be erased, but pen is forever. And please, no stickers.
Ughhh!
4. Attaching (fusing) interfacing to pattern pieces for Lord knows what reasons.
5. Taping or gluing an envelope or pattern pieces in attempt to repair the pattern. It’s better to leave the pattern in its original condition leaving it up to the buyer to handle repair issues.
For more information
How to value vintage sewing patterns
Omaha Sewing Examiner Articles
Working with vintage sewing patterns
What about people that cut out pictures on the envelope and then glue them to the outside of a larger envelope.