Saturday, October 24, 2009 3:51 p.m.
One of the best parts of treasure hunting (in a thrifting kinda way) is you never know who you’ll meet or the questions you’ll run across.
Take my visit to McMillan’s Antiques situated, quite appropriately for Halloween, directly across the street from an old cemetery on the corner of 50th & Leavenworth. Don’t drive too fast or you’ll miss the store’s picturesque front window stuffed with old goodies inviting you to stop and come in.
Once inside the small but surprisingly spacious little antique store you’re immediately overcome with a feeling that beckons browsing. Not so noticeable is the entrance to the lower level basement. I once found some beautiful vintage sewing patterns down there. Ask to take a peek. In any case, both levels are filled with an assortment of items ranging from limited kitchen wears to bold retro furnishings.
While McMillan’s carries a limited selection of vintage clothing, including aprons, there is a substantial selection of exquisite vintage jewelry to wish upon and snag up.
While I’ve visited McMillan’s several times, searching primarily for vintage sewing patterns, this is the first time I’ve met the owner, Marcia Dwyer, who was particularly interested in my sewing escapades and abilities. 
A former Californian who has been in the antiquing business since the 1980s, Marcia is as friendly as she is inquisitive.
“Do you make pea coats?” This came about more than likely through discussion about hippy dresses (which she pointed out are from her day). And in part because I was wearing a cool wool pea coat I’d recently found at a local thrift store here in Omaha. ”No, I haven’t. But I could,” I answered.
“How do you alter patterns (vintage patterns) to fit us today?” she asked.
Um.
Altering vintage patterns for size is really not all that different than basic pattern altering today. Then, just like now, it starts with good body measurements and altering the paper pattern accordingly. Working basics and muslins are essential, especially when dealing with vintage sewing patterns because vintage sewing pattern pieces, frankly, don’t always work and require tweaking.
Working with a basic and muslin before cutting good fabric is the smart and economical method of saving wasted time, effort, material and money if the pattern doesn’t initially go the way you envisioned.
In addition, get yourself a good sewing book that explains alterations vividly, in addition to a quality vintage sewing book, because they’re helpful in working with vintage patterns.
Stop by and visit Marcia at McMillan’s Antiques 5002 Leavenworth St., Omaha, NE. Or call 402-558-2522.