Vogue Mini Dress Pattern, Visually Interesting

Vogue patterns almost always go just a little bit further in their fashion statement than the others.    This one is no exception.    

Vogue 7742, Vintage 1970 

Make this one as either a short or long sleeved mini-dress.  Notice that extra touch of the band cuff on both.  It has a really deep V-Neckline that is just a bit wider across the collar bone than most.   And, the addition of the row of buttons draws attention to the Mock Wrap.   And then, the patch pockets (with the same cuff band as the sleeves and mock wrap).   When looking at the dress they eyes don't have a set place to go, but wander.   Typically, the patch pockets might make the hips look broad, but the neckline and button row stop that from happening.     (I'd still opt out of them though).  


Based on the models, hair and expression, I'd say the desired effect may have been snoot.   But, what do I know.



Nice Vintage Dress.   I have one, in a Size 12, listed in my shop.   I, of course, also have a whole lot of other dresses, as well. 

Do you like it?     Thanks for dropping by, 

Lorrie

Womens Blouse Pattern, Most Popular Week of July 24

I continue to have difficulty with the 'Most Popular Week of'' series.  The two patterns with the highest amount of views were sold some time back.    The root of the problem (remember that 90s term?), is Artfire allow the search engines to crawl our 'shipped' listings, thus they remain active in cyberspace.   This is disappointing to those folks search for the specific patterns, as well as distorts my weekly 'Most Popular' post.        What's still getting the most views ... well, of course, the fish, and the mens shirt with tent. 

Alright, now that I have that off my chest .... Drumroll Please .....

Most Popular Pattern for the week of July 24th.

 For those of us with larger figures, this is a great pattern.   It's not only correctly sized for the full figure, it is part of the Design Your Own series.   You get to mix or match the features with collar, neckline and sleeve variations.   Dress it up, or make casual.   Allow it to become a wardrobe staple, each blouse different from the last.    I actually have this blouse in two size ranges in my shop; it was the larger of the two, however, which received the views.   

Size 26w - 32w

Size 18 - 24

If you were looking for Womens Blouse, but this did not meet your wants, there are, of course, a variety of others in my shop. 

Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie

Dress Pattern Fashions for May 1960

I remember the first time I saw one of those TV commercials that was shot in black and white with the key products in color.   At first, I did not notice they key products in color and started thinking my color was going out ... until the commercial ended.   It's funny, because this happened several times before I caught on.     Well, when I turned the page and saw the Workbasket pattern selection for the May 1960 issue, that memory jumped right out at me as I glanced at the outfit on the right.   In this example, however, it's the accessories that are colored, versus the dress they are selling us on.    Now, how interesting is that. 

Workbasket 4972 - Here's a nice shirtwaist with an eight gored skirt.  It's offered in short sleeves and sleeveless. 

Workbasket 4992 - A two piece dress.   The top features a 'tiny' peplum and the skirt is straight.  The ad indicates "there's a version for every season".   With this claim, I'm surprised not to see a long sleeve option.

Workbasket 9491 - Really nice fitted dress with a stylish bolero.    This pattern was also marketed as Marian Martin 9491. 

All told, they put out a nice selection for May 1960.    I'd be happy to add any (or all) of the three to my attire (I'll take the figure also, if you please).     Other thank Workbasket 9491 over at Wikia Vintage Patterns, I didn't see any reference to them on there in cyber space.  

Thanks for dropping by.   
Lorrie

Crocheted Heart Pin Pattern

Now here is a pretty little accessory.    Crochet it up tonight, add a small amount of stuffing and a safety pin and you can wear it tomorrow.   Crochet two, give one to a friend, and you can wear them together.   Okay, okay ... I know ... that's a bit corny. 

But seriously, it is a cute pin to wear on your sweater or coat.   Perhaps attach it to your bag or tote.   Make up a couple sets, on longer cords, and hang them from your car rear view mirror.    I'm sure there are dozens of options ...

This is a vintage crochet pattern; early 1940s.   It is from American Thread Company, Star Pearl Book 27.  

What are you going to do with the ones you make ??

Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie

Crocheted Clutch Bag Free Pattern Vintage 1940s

Here's another pattern from the Vintage early 1940s American Thread Company, Star Pearl Book 27.

 

 This pattern is a crocheted bag, clutch in style that features a zip closure and an unusual touch ... a plastic bracelet. 

I have a couple other patterns from this book to get posted here to the Free Patterns section, so check back soon, should you be interested.  

Thanks for stopping by,
Lorrie

Crocheted Barbi Doll Clothes Pattern

This pattern set is from a vintage issue of The Workbasket.      Although the photo quality is quite poor (as is typical with the old Workbasket patterns), it creates a strapless jumpsuit, a halter dress and a two piece suit.    Certainly ensembles any respectable Barbi would love to wear.

 So, if you are looking for crochet patterns to delight your girl (or yourself) with new outfits, when not try this one !

Note:  If you'd like a hard copy of this, click to enlarge and then copy / paste to a word processing or notepad document.  

Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie

Crocheted Acorn Pin Accessory Pattern

Crochet up a group of acorns, wrap them into a lightweight plastic belt buckle, glue on a safety pin, or better yet, a pin back, and you'll have this unique Pin to accessorize whatever outfit you might want ... or gift to your friends ... etc. etc. etc.

This pattern is from American Thread Company, Star Pearl Book 27, going all the way back to the early 1940's.   I think it would look great on a winter coat.

Create a marvelous accessory !     Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie

P.S.   If you love the acorn, here's another free pattern for a belt (acorn buckle) and a pocket.

Crocheted Hangers with Stocking Savers Free Pattern

Remember back 30 or 35 years ago, before pantyhose became mainstream (and then obsolete) and nylon stockings, which required garters were the thing?    Well, this hanger with the hooks, was just the thing for hanging those stockings ... to dry after washing, or whatever !

This crochet pattern is from American Thread Star Book 195, issued back in the mid 1960s as advertising promotion for their line of yarns.   You know, but our yarns to create our patterns.     I'm listing a number of these books in my shop in PDF version (they were issued without copyright, putting them in the public domain).   If you are interested in seeing what else is in this book, just click the above link.   

Of course, this hanger would still work great for a whole lot of other things ... gloves, undies .. well, you know.  


I'm sharing this one with you here in my shop blog for your crocheting pleasure.   

Thanks for dropping by, 
Lorrie

Vintage Crochet, Star Pearl Book 27

There is no date listed in this Vintage Book, Star Pearl Cotton Book 27, from American Thread Company, but I'd place it around 1943/44.   I'd base this on it being assigned the number 27; I had book 44 and it is dated 1947.    My book is in rather poor shape, which I always hope is from creative use and not neglect.   The binding in no longer intact, it is dogeared along the edges and the back page is missing.   But, I can still share (all but the back page) with you !      Because of the condition, I've not copied to a PDF file to put the entire book in my shop.   I have put some of the individual patterns in my shop, and others in the Free Patterns section here in the blog.   In these cases, you'll see the reference and links under the pattern description. 

Enjoy the vintage pattern show !

Star Pearl Cotton Book

Although I do not see an advertisement indicating this is a direct promotion for their Star Pearl Cotton Threads (other than the book name), all of the patterns call for the threads. 

 Knitted Sweater 2701 - This cute little square neck sweater is sized for 2 - 3 year olds.  It is knitted with one pair Steel Knitting Needles No 1.   You'll also need 4 small buttons for the shoulder closure. 

This pattern is available in my shop. 

Baby Set 2702 - "Tie this beribboned Dwarf Cap on your chubby off-spring.   Match it with the simple-to-make jacket and booties".   This is crocheted with a Steel Crochet Hook No 8.   Your also need little buttons and some narrow ribbon.

This pattern is available in my shop. 

Knitted Dress 2703 - "She'll look charming in this dress with its pattern waistline - especially smart in cream with blue".    The dress is sized for a girl between 2 - 3 years.  This is knitted with 1 pair Bone Knitting Needles No 1.  You will also need 5 small buttons. 

This pattern is available in my shop.  

Crocheted Dress 2704 - "The button down front style copies mommy's - the large lacey stitch goes very quickly".  This girls dress is sized for 2 - 3 years.    To crochet this dress, you will need a Steel Crochet Hook No. 9 and 6 small buttons.

This pattern is available in my shop. 

Elephant 2705 - Crocheted with a Steel Hook No 7 or 8.  The entire elephant is worked in single crochet.

Ball 2706 - Stitch up this fun toy with  1 Crochet Hook Size 6 or 7.

Doll - 2707 - Crochet her with a a Steel Hook No 7 or 8.   You'll also need buttons.

This pattern is available in my shop. 

     Doily 2708 - This pretty piece measures about 14 inches in diameter.   You'll need a Steel Crochet Hook No 8.

  Doily 2709 -  This oval doily is created with a Steel Crochet Hook No 9 or 10.    It measures about 10" by 13".  

  Luncheon Set 2710 - The little doily luncheon mats are created using a Steel Crochet Hook No. 7.   Each doily measures about 12.5" by 15.5". 

 Luncheon Cloth 2711 - This elegant tablecloth measures 36" x 36" and it crocheted with a Steel Hook No. 9.  Each motif measures about 3.5".

Pot Holders 2712 through 2715 - All four of these potholders are crocheted with a Steel Hook No. 8. 

Hot Plate Mats 2716 - Create these mats, either in circular or oval form, using a Steele Crochet Hook No 4 or 5. 

"Conservation of leather is no hardship when these lovely bags can be made so simply and inexpensively.
Crocheted Bag 2717 - Crocheted with a Steel Hook No 6.    You will also need a plastic bracelet and a 12 inch zipper.
Crocheted Bag 2718 - Created this little drawstring style bag using a Steel Crochet Hook No 7 or 8.

 Knitted Glove 2719 - These are sized medium and created with 4 double pointed Steel Knitting Needles No. 14.
Crocheted Glove 2720 - These gloves are medium to large (depending upon the hook).   They are crocheted with a Steel Hook No 7 or 8.

Star Stitch Crocheted Vest 2721 - What a unique piece !   It is crocheted with a Steel Hook No. 7.   The vest is sized 12 - 14.

This pattern is available in my shop. 

Gadget 2722 - Gadget is an interesting name for this little heart sized pin.  It is crocheted with a Steel Hook No 7 or 8.

Acorn Gadget 2723 - This pin, with crocheted acorns is put together with the aide of a belt buckle and a safety pin.   The acorns are created  with a steel hook No 7 or 8.

This is available in the Free Pattern section of this Blog.  

And, that's it.   At least, to my knowledge.   I read (online of course) that this booklet is 22 pages.  I have 20 of them.   I assume the last inside cover would be the advertisement for the cotton thread, or possible an advertisement for their other books.  The back page is typically the same as the front with American Thread, but once in awhile they surprise me.     When I come across another issue, I'll update the listing. 

Did you catch the historical reference in here?   It's under the purses -- "Conservation of Leather".   This would, of course, be due to the wartime effort ... all those belts, holsters, shoes for our service men.

Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie

My favorite 1970s Halter Dress Pattern

Way back in 1973 I was particularly fond on long dresses.     I came across a specific pattern that I loved and was fortunate in that my mother agreed to make it.   Actually, I was extremely lucky; she made three of them.   And, since she was always concerned with a young ladies modesty, even lined them.  I wore them almost ALL THE TIME.   When the weather was too cool, I'd simply put on a light sweater.   Oh, and don't let me forget the platform shoe.    Everyone loved me in this dress .. as you can see in this shot of the dress, with my then boyfriend (who loved me).

I actually think about these dresses periodically.   How, I wish I had the pattern and then I'd make up a dozen and wear them all the time and everyone would love me. 

Well back to reality .... almost.     I was processing this pattern to list in my shop today ....

McCalls 3415

When it hit me.    THIS IS THE DRESS.   The perfect dress of my memories.   Just to make sure, I dug through my archives just to find a picture.   (I don't understand why I could find only one !!!)   Seems I was always wearing one of these dresses).   AND YES, although the whole dress doesn't show ... this is it.   Flared and flowing all the way to my ankles, softly covering those platform shoes.  

The dress is a size 14.   I found myself thinking, how, if I 'seriously' dieted for a couple months, I might be able to fit into a size 14.   BUT, then reality started setting in.   I'm in my 50's and, to put it nicely, a little on the chunky side.    I'm just not sure everyone would love me in this dress anymore.  

Some days it is so hard to face reality.    I listed it in my shop.   (I have to go now and get out a new box of Kleenix !).

Thanks for dropping by.
Lorrie

Simple to Sew, A Workbasket Advertisement

Here are the The Workbasket Sewing Pattern presented for our viewing pleasure in the vintage January 1984 issue.

The theme for the month was Easy to Sew.   Probably a well needed theme .. a bit of a rest ... after their typical Sew for Gift Giving issues typical in all magazines November and December issues.  Here we have four sewing choices and a knit / crochet pattern.

Workbasket 9060 - A simple V-neck belted dress featuring a slightly skirt and elbow length sleeves.

Workbasket 4917 - An easy (to sew and wear) pullover top with a rounded neckline and sleeve variations.  This pattern was also distributed by The Star in 1984

Workbasket 9106 - An A-line with flutter sleeves and a rounded neckline with button detail.  

Workbasket 4600 - A two piece dress with straight skirt and side buttoned top with neck and sleeve bands. 

Workbasket 7026 - Knit or crochet legwarmers.  

My favorite here, to admire, is definitely the 4600 - two piece dress.   It has bells and whistles that I'm not knowledgeable enough to name.   I just know that it is great looking.    I am a bit doubtful, however, that this would fall into that 'Simple to Sew' category.    My other favorite here is 4917, the pullover top.   I could certainly use a few of these in my wardrobe.    But ... a quick look out there at Vintage Pattern Wikia and Google Search don't turn up any of them.     I'm sure they are out there, however.   Probably under different names and numbers. 

Hope you enjoyed the advertisement.    Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie

Shoulder Pin Tucked Dress Pattern

And tucked away in a Butterick pattern was this long narrow advertisement.

Obviously, this is a cut out add from some type of catalog (Page 317).   I checked out Johnstons of South Naples, however, they are no longer there ... although the address does tie to a shopping district.    Do you suppose the designer is Jim Tanner in his earlier days?    Either way, our mystery seamstress apparently liked the dress and went looking for a pattern to create on her own, versus paying the $74 (a healthy dollar amount for 1981). 

And, what did she select ...   

Butterick 3549 

Now, this is a quite nice dress, but only slightly related.  Yes, both have shoulder tucks, but the Tanner tucks go to hip level and has no waistline.   The neck on the Tanner dress is more scooped and down not have the band.  And sleeves, well not even close.       I assume our mystery seamstress knew this however and gave up.   She may have purchased the pattern and tucked (no pun intended) the piece of history (advertisement) into the envelope, but that's it.   This is an uncut, factory folded pattern.  

I've listed this one in my shop (advertisement included).    There are also pages of other tucked dresses, should you be interested.

Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie

Knitted Pom Pom Hat Free Pattern Bear 2483

When you are a younger child and in those situations where a winter hat is a must, there is just nothing more fun than one with Pom Pom's.     (Okay, maybe it's fun for a few older kids as well ... just don't solicit the opinion of a teenager !).  

Here's a cute winter hat that sports three Pom-Poms.  

 This pattern is from Vintage Bear Brands Book 348, titled hand knits for Young America (public domain).    I've listed a variety of the patterns from this book in my shop, however, will share a couple of them here in the free patterns section as well. 

Have fun !

Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie

Crochet Doilies Coats Clark Book 516

This Coats and Clarks Book is all about Crochet Accessories, mostly for the home, using a variety of techniques ... regular crochet, tatting, filet, swedish weaving.   Here, they are including the NEW WOVEN CROCHET.    Perhaps a little overkill in the technique department, however, I know they had to catch everyone possible at the checkout.     This book, vintage 1957, contains an assortment of home decor accessories.     Here, let me show you.

Coats and Clarks Book 516 

Featured on the cover .. 

S-959:  Tulip Garden Doily

The inside cover adds a light sense of humor to the pattern mix. 

 S-950:  Sea Spray Doily with a starfish, or 6 point star (?) motif and a wide ruffle. 

S-951:  Sea Shells - 8 piece luncheon set.  The page header -   "Never let it be said that crochet is not adaptable!   Here it appears teamed up with smart plastic doilies to make attractive informal place settings".  In other words, you take a small standard plastic doily and then add additional rows to give an updated and interesting look.  

S-952:  Pansy Patch Doily is created using a Milwards Steel Crochet Hook No 6.   This piece is also built onto a plastic crochet center.   It is 8 inches in diameter. 

S-953 Tea Cozy and S-954 Toaster Cover and Pot Holder.  To create these, you will need Millwards Steel Crochet Hooks No. 2/0 (double zero) and No 7.  

S-955:  Caravel Chair Set is Filet Crochet in a viking nautical theme. 

S-956 - 23rd Psalm Wall Hanging, a beautiful piece of wall art that is worthy of becoming an heirloom.  

S960 - S964:  Woven Crochet patterns for a rug, basket cover, seat pad, coaster cover and pot holder. 

S-965:  Hot Plate Mat and Napkin Holder are created using Milwards Steel Crochet Hooks No 2/0 (double zero) and No 7.  

S-966:  Swedish weaving (a form of embroidery) worked on huck toweling.  

More Swedish Embroidery

S-967:  Bird Cage Cover includes chart for the embroidery as well as measurements to create measurements for the bird cage cover itself.  

S-968:  Hostess Apron 

S-969:  "A pair of snug slippers to pamper your weary feet after working hours are over".  They feature an interesting stripe design and wavy scallops all the way around the top. 

S-970:  "A roomy carry-all that holds all you could possibly need for a day in the city or at the short".  Crocheted with a Milwards Steel Crochet Hook No 2/0 (double zero).    You'll also need buckram and lining, fasteners.   The actual size is not stated. 

Shown on the back cover ...
S-957:  Pineapple Edging.
S-958 - Pineapple Nosegay Doily
S-959 - Pineapple Motif
All three are crocheted with a Milwards  Steel Crochet Hook No. 10.

So, what do you think?    Too much variety within one book?

When looking through this book, I came up with two questions to put on 'My Wondering' List.

• Was woven crochet really introduced in 1957, and 
• Where did ladies purchase these magazines ... checkout lane at the grocery or in sewing shops, or ?  

I went and did a Google on these two questions, and although a huge number of results came back, I didn't readily see anything resembling an answer.   Feel free to educate me, should you know.

I've listed a number of the patterns above individually as noted by the links under the pictures.  

Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie