How to value vintage dressmaker patterns
I received an email from someone wanting to know how to value their deceased mother’s sewing patterns (50s, 60s, and 70s), where to take them and whether or not eBay was a good place to start.
This is part of my response:
‘Hi,
1. Rarity
If the pattern is in limited supply price is effected.
2. Age
The age of a pattern effects value. Old patterns may garner a higher price.
3. Condition of pattern pieces
Sewing patterns by nature of their purpose are meant to be used. Home sewers purchased patterns and believe it or not-actually using them to make clothing and other home accessories. I say that to point out to someone new to purchasing vintage sewing pattterns-not all pattern pieces are going to be in mint condition. Pattern pieces in the best condition: those free of markings (pen or pencil), lack of pins, rust, burn marks, tears, rips, chalk markings, stains, factory fold, uncut and those lacking tracing wheel markings are more desirable than patterns which containing those “natural construction” attributes of usage.
4. Presence and condition of instruction sheet
Of course, the greater majority of vintage sewing patterns will have their instruction sheets present and in tact. But not all, some have been lost with time. Others may not be in the best of shape. Obviously, the presence and condition of an instruction sheet affects price.
5. Uniqueness of the pattern
At one time pattern manufacturers printed patterns in limited supply, reprinting only when demand warranted doing so. Because of this practice some pattern designs are more rare and unique than others.
6. Type of pattern
For example, doll, evening gowns and apron patterns are highly collectible.
7. Manufacturer rarity
Some pattern manufacturers only operated for a limited time period (Dubarry, Pictorial Review and Delinator), making patterns of those manufacturers highly sought after due to rarity, shortness of supply and uniqueness.
8. Historical significance
Many people actually study and archive sewing patterns because of what sewing pattern represent as part of Americana. For example, wartime patterns.
9. Demand
Pattern sellers, buyers and collectors also effect price under the basic theories of supply and demand.
10. Pricing of other patterns of the same type
See No. 9.
11. Costs associated with acquiring the pattern(s)
The sellers expenses, time and desired profit margin affect price.
For more information
Worth their weight in gold: vintage sewing patterns
Why are some vintage sewing patterns expensive?
How to ruin a vintage sewing pattern collectible
January 27th, 2010
by Marie Robinson
My mother was a person who loved to sew and she taught that craft to me. After her death from breast cancer in 1994. I have stored her patterns, some that date back to the 1950’s and are no longer availabe. I was wondering if there was a place that I can assess their value and if possible sell them or should I just hold on to them? Looking forward to any possible advice you can give. Sincerely, Marie Robinson
January 27th, 2010
by Admin/Callie
Hi, it’s good to here from you. Condolences on the lost of your mother. Kudos to you for storing her treasures.
There’s no one place to check the value on your sewing patterns. There are literally hundreds of sellers online-all selling patterns anywhere from .50 to $250.00. The most I’ve seen a vintage sewing pattern go was for more than $700.00. And a single pattern envelope (no pieces or instructions) for more than $150.00. You can certainly check online to determine if someone else might have the same pattern and note what they’re asking for the same pattern. You can then use that as a gage if you’d like. But, that in itself isn’t really a good determination of value (the seller may not know what they have, the seller could be over-priced, or the seller could be underpriced for example), but if it’s something you’re ultimately comfortable with-then it’s perfect set your prices accordingly.
Patterns from the 1950s are popular. The thing with buyers of sewing patterns-everyone has there own special interests. Someone interested in only 1930s patterns-isn’t going to pay premium for a 1950 pattern, even if it’s a one-of-a-kind Dior. Other buyers buy simply based on the style of fashion. My point, because they’re from the 1950s they’re not automatically valuable-but then again you could be sitting on a small “fortune”. (Smile)
It’s a collector’s and crafter’s market. Prices vary widely from seller to seller, type of pattern, condition, brand, year, want, demand and other factors-including whether or not the potential buyer is doing so as a collector or a sewer/crafter.
I would definitely sell if you’re able to get the prices you want or are comfortable with. As far as holding, if you’re not able to get the prices you want and feel you truely have a pattern worth holding-then by all means do so..especially in this tough economy when everyone is trying to buy ridiculously low and sell high-without merit.
Personally, for the patterns I sell, I’ve set up a pricing system which I feel is fair to me and the buyer for collectible patterns. My sell prices range from $3.00 to $190.00.
If you’d like me to give you an honest personal opinion on the value of some of your patterns you can send pics or the brand and pattern numbers of some of them. I’ll be happy to help and explain my “value” opinions.
callie@sewcraftful.com
I hope I was able to help.
Thanks so much for the question and visiting.
Callie