Vintage Pattern Marketplace

Vintage Pattern Marketplace

Saturday, December 20, 2014

Santa's Shortcuts - Christmas Eve Board Game

Santa's Shortcuts

My memories of Christmas Eve are ones of anxious anticipation. Suddenly we noticed the radio towers and the blinking red lights. That HAD to be Rudolph. We watched the weather reports with great interest. We were waiting, anxiously, for Santa and wondered what he would bring us. If you have little ones who anticipate Christmas morning like I once did, this is a fun game to play on Christmas Eve. Santa's Shortcuts, a boardgame from a 1963 publication from Oster, the originator of the Osterizer, is a fun game of the perils of 20th century travel via sleigh pulled by flying reindeer. Print out here and use buttons or coins as game pieces. Then send those little ones off to dreamland and Merry Christmas!

Saturday, November 22, 2014

The Right Way to Carve by James Beard

The Right Way To Carve
There are a few chefs that I can name whose philosophy of eating changed the way we perceive dining. James Beard is one of those giants. My copy of American Cookery is well loved and well used. His simple tomato soup recipe has been a winner at every dinner party I have served it. I even served it as the first course for Thanksgiving dinner several years ago and it set the tone for the rest of the entrees to come. 

As Thanksgiving approaches once again and you are presented with the task of carving the turkey or roast or whatever you are serving your guests, fear not. In this 1950s article from Woman's Day magazine, James Beard walks you through the steps for a perfect presentation without the anxiety. Download the article HERE and from the pattern sellers on Goodsmiths, we wish you a very 

 Happy Thanksgiving!

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Free Tutorial for Setting a Festive Table - Vintage Napkin Folds

From the Practical Encyclopedia of Good Decorating and Home Improvement Vol 16 1971©

I recall a story about Andy Warhol who, as a very young but celebrated artist, was invited to dine at the home of a well-to-do museum patron. The table was large and the guest list legendary. Each place setting had every imaginable utensil in it's proper place. Andy Warhol came from rather humble beginnings and had no idea how to proceed. As the courses were placed in front of him and removed untouched, the guest to his right remarked... but Mr Warhol, you have eaten nothing. His relpy ... I only eat candy. Now THAT is classic Warhol.

Whether you set your table for fine dining of for family dinners, one thing that transforms a simple place setting into an elegant presentation is a folded napkin strategically placed on the plate. For this year's Thanksgiving or Holiday table settings, whether your gathering is buffet style or sit down dinner, try these festive folds and impress your guests. This is something that can be done ahead of time leaving you time for more important things like enjoying your own party.

Courtesy of Cynical Girl on Goodsmiths

Sunday, November 9, 2014

Stained Glass Trivets and Coasters - Easy to Make Holiday Gift Ideas - Free Pattern

Easy Glass and Poured Plaster Trivets or Coasters

Protect your tabletops from heat and spills with these festive stained glass trivets. Made of poured plaster of paris and pieces of colored glass, these easy to make trivets can be scaled down for coasters too. You choose the colors and shapes of the glass pieces as well as the design. Pour into the bottom of a half gallon carton for a square trivet. Keep the plaster white or paint with poster paint afterward or why not try adding food color to the plaster to color it before pouring. Stack half a dozen small coasters and tie with a pretty ribbon as a gift for the hostess this Thanksgiving or Christmas. The possibilities are endless. In a very large mold with poured concrete you can make decorative stepping stones for a pathway for your favorite gardener. Published in 1963 by the John Oster Manufacturing Company, Milwaukee, maker of the original Osterizer. Download instructions HERE.

Thursday, November 6, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - 1950's Santa Face Apron Pattern For the Ho Ho Hostess - Great for Gifts Too!

1950's Santa Face Apron Pattern

In the 1950's the "Face" apron was popular in many themes. This Santa face apron is easy to make with a bit of applique and embroidery to finish the details. How fun to wear this retro holiday apron while you play hostess to your friends and loved ones this Christmas. Or make a few to give as gifts. They surely will be cherished. Download HERE. Prints on 8.5" x 11" sheets of paper. Complete instructions included. 

Courtesy of CynicalGirl on Goodsmiths.

Folded Paper Choir of Angels - Free Vintage Holiday Decor Pattern

Sing, Choir of Angels. Sing in Exultation.

Call it vintage. Call it retro. Whatever you call it, the 1960's "Look" is back and in full force. White, silver and pink Christmas trees with revolving spot lights, bottle brush trees and painted figurine candles ... it's all new again. These simple figurines of folded paper and ornament heads can be scaled up or down to create giant or miniature displays. So gather up the kids, the spray paint and pipe cleaners and get started on your new "Look" for the Holidays. Download pattern here.  Published in 1963 by the John Oster Manufacturing Company, Milwaukee, maker of the original Osterizer.

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Vintage Toothpick Angel Sculpture - Free Pattern - Deck the Halls

Toothpick Angel

In Gladbrook Iowa there is a little museum called Matchstick Marvels housing enormous sculptures of incredibly detailed castles, mansions, ships, planes and yes, even the White House and Hogwarts. These sculptures are the work of one man, Patrick Acton, and are entirely made from matchsticks and date from the 1970's to the present. Definitely worth a visit.

The 1960's and 1970's crafting world brought forth ideas for creating objects for holiday and every day decor that used all manner of household objects. Remember spray painted macaroni ornaments and wreaths? I don't recall matchsticks being used but I do remember toothpicks. This Toothpick angel would make a lovely centerpiece for the table or the mantle, or an awesome retro tree topper. Either way, it's easy to make with no special skills or tools. Published in 1963 by the John Oster Manufacturing Company, Milwaukee, maker of the original beehive blender. Download directions HERE.

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

Free Pattern - Partridge in a Pear Tree Christmas Fiber Art Collage Pattern

Partridge in a Pear Tree Fiber Art Collage
The Partridge in a Pear Tree is the first gift from the classic folk song The Twelve Days of Christmas. Historians note that the Partridge may have been a common hen as "Banty Hens" are smaller and know to roost in low branching trees, such as juniper. Second in rank only to Five Gold Rings as an easily remembered verse, the Partridge in a Pear Tree ranks first in visual appeal. Imagine how an ornate old picture frame would get a new lease on life with this attractive fiber art picture made of felt or left over scraps of fabric depicting this well known Holiday theme. Scaled down in miniature, these would make lovely hand made Christmas greeting cards. Published by John Oster Manufacturing Co. 1963. Easy to make. Download directions HERE.

Sunday, November 2, 2014

Buttons - Finding the Right Size for Your Project - Or What is a Ligne?



You have seen button cards with the sizes indicated in inches and millimeters. No doubt you have seen the letter L followed by a number or the word Ligne. What in the world is a ligne?

In French or German, Ligne means line. It is a unit of measurement applied to the diameter of buttons that predates metric, which was installed in the 18th century as the universal standard of measurement in Europe. In the 9th century, German button makers used ligne to represent a measurement of 1/40th of an inch, more or less. Today, Ligne, a term probably brought over to the US from German immigrants, is the standard measurement for buttons. Strict and precise, a ligne equals exactly 1/40th of an inch of the diameter of a button or a snap.

This snappy button sizing chart from Britex Fabrics in San Francisco is available as a download HERE. But do visit their website if you are looking for high quality fabrics, notions and trims. They have great sales too!! Follow their BLOG to keep up to date.

Friday, October 31, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Deck the Halls with Glass Wax - Free Pattern Download

1950's Christmas Stencils from Glass Wax

If you were a late Boomer you remember Glass Wax. I don't recall using the stencils but I have vivid memories of my mother recreating the illusion of frost in the corners of the windows with Glass Wax and a sponge. Glass Wax is still available as a glass and mirror cleaner. It is even sold as a polish for cars! 

You can recreate the 1950's window decoration with these downloadable stencil pages to cut out. Prints on 8.5" x 11"  sheets of paper. Print on heavier stock for multiple uses. Use scissors or x-acto knife to cut stencils.

Don't pass up these easy and economical DIY Holiday decor stencils. Deck the halls!! 



Courtesy of Cynical Girl on Goodsmiths




Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Free Pattern - Varsity Beanie Leave it to Beaver Style

Crochet Varsity Beanie

His name was Theodore but we all knew him as Beaver Cleaver. Doesn't this beanie remind you of the Beave? I can hear him now... "Gee Wally, but where are the propellers?" Download this sweet little 1950's beanie pattern to crochet for your little Wally and Beaver.

Free Crochet Pattern - Christmas Stockings

Crochet Christmas Stockings



Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for the Santa Claus figure we associate with Christmas, was known as the Good Saint. He was the originator of the book of naughty or nice. On the eve of December 6th would deliver tokens and sweets to children by placing them in the shoes or the stockings left to dry by the fire. December 6th is known as Saint Nicholas Day. Not everyone celebrates the tradition of Saint Nicholas Eve but when I was a child it was almost more anticipated than Christmas day. These sweet stockings would be a pretty holiday decor element that can be filled with sweet treats for your not naughty but nice little ones this Saint Nicholas Eve. Download Pattern Here.

Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Free Vintage Pattern - Crochet Necktie - Gifts For Him

Crochet Berry Stitch Necktie

Handmade gifts for the guys are always a bit of a challenge. I mean, how many robes does one guy need? But if your favorite guy wears a tie to work this berry stitch crochet tie is easy to make. With the amazing selection of wools and cottons in bold, subtle or heather tones, this is bound to be a favorite. Download the easy to follow instructions HERE.

Monday, October 27, 2014

Free Patterns Everyday - Rag Slippers to Crochet for The Whole Family

Easy to Crochet Rag Slippers

Almost everything can be looked at in one or two ways. A thing, or person is either an asset or a liability. The usefulness of a thing defines its value. With no perceived purpose a thing may be dismissed as a liability. But what if we reassess the qualities of a thing and apply them to a different context? Do we still see them in the same way? Quilters are genius at finding purpose for bits and scraps from leftover sewing projects or clothes worn beyond repair. One's perspective is the key to thinking outside of the box. And these rag slippers could be the antidote to the overflowing scrap heap of all those odd leftovers from sewing projects you cannot bring yourself to discard. Made from pieced bias strips and crocheted with a size K hook, they are easy house slippers to keep those little piggies warm all year round. Make some for your loved ones and clean out that remnant basket until your next sewing project. Download Instructions HERE.

Friday, October 24, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Braided Twosome - Hat and Bag

Braided Twosome by January & Wood 1954

However good our intentions may be to knit or crochet all of our gifts this Christmas season, if you have not yet taken the time to learn this skill, you may be in for some frustration. Though I find both skills relaxing and fairly easy, it was not always this way. My first attempts were nothing short of disastrous. This handbag and matching hat is a quick and easy no skill pattern. Instructions are for braiding but imagine the hat and bag made from spool knitting (as described in this earlier post) or even a simple crocheted chain with chunky yarn. The possibilities are endless.

A Few Styling Options

Courtesy of KinseySue Vintage Patterns on Goodsmiths. 


Thursday, October 23, 2014

Free Pattern - Breast Cancer Awareness Month - Chemo Hat Pattern


Poul Friis Nybo Portrait of a Young Woman Knitting



Janet Szabo, is a knitter and editor of several knitting books available from her publishing company Big Sky Knitting. Szabo, a breast cancer survivor, designed this knitted chemo-toque pattern (©1998) to share. It is reprinted here for you to knit and share as well. Your donation to your local Breast Cancer Awareness chapter would be appreciated. Find more of Janet's knitting patterns on Ravelry.

Download pattern HERE.



Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Free Pattern Everyday - Learning to Knit with a Loom

Spool Knitting Tutorial

When I was a little girl I was presented with a square wooden block with a hole in the center and four nails driven in around the opening. It was not a thread spool but a blue wooden component of a child's stacking game. This object was my first introduction to knitting. There were no "needles" with yarn cast on. Instead it was a mini knitting-in-the-round machine for creating lengths of round knit cord. Today you can buy looms similar to this 19th century prototype. But if you want the real deal, download this tutorial with instructions to make the cord and tassels for drapery tie backs, or any application you can contrive. And don't despair if you have no wooden thread spool. Any plastic or compressed styrofoam spool can be adapted by drilling four small holes into the top of the spool,  and heating the pointed end of a small nail under a flame and insert into the drilled holes. Voila! A 21st Century version of a 19th Century spool knitter. Download HERE.


Free Pattern Every Day - Vintage Greeting Card Caddy

1968 Coats & Clark Card Caddy


As the Holiday cards begin to pour in from friends, family and well wishers, you will need a quick and easy organizing solution. This 1960's Coats & Clark card caddy is a quick-to-make card holder. It's simply a tube wrapped with festive colored string to hold cards with purchased or crocheted trim. Spin the tube to read the cards in full view. Download this retro holiday card holder pattern HERE.

Sunday, October 19, 2014

Free Pattern Everyday - Knitted Bobtail Hat and Bag Pattern

1950's Easy Knitted Bobtail Hat and Matching Bag from Patons & Baldwin Toronto

Tassel and fringe trim this duo of quick and easy knit hat with contrast crown and matching bag with contrast fringe and handle. The choice of yarn for this classic style knit hat and bag will be the element that sets this set apart. Pima cotton with multi-colored slub or handspun Merino will yield very different but equally interesting results. Play. Download this knitting pattern HERE. Prints on 8.5" x 11" paper.

Thanks to Janie of RedCurlzs Vintage Patterns

Friday, October 17, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Crocheted Circle Cap and Bag

1950's Crocheted Cap and Bag by January & Wood, Inc., Maysville, Kentucky

The Holidays are fast approaching and that quick to make gift from the heart is as close as a click. Using a large hook (size 5 or 6) this duo works up fast. Whether using novelty yarns with lurex for shimmer or boucle for texture, the variations for this smart set are endless. Make one for all the girls on your list. Download this pattern  HERE. Prints on 8.5" x 11" sheet of paper.

Courtesy of RedCurlzs Vintage Patterns

Thursday, October 16, 2014

Free Pattern Everyday - Loop Trimmed Crocheted Bag and Hat

1950's Loop Trimmed Hat and Bag from January & Wood, Inc., Maysville, Kentucky

Crocheted accessories will always be winners not only for their speed and ease but because of their versatility. This looped bag and matching hat are a fabulous example of adding dimensional interest easily for a great effect. The looping on the hat makes a wonderful frame for the face while the looping on the bag accentuate the base. Great gifts but I think this one is a keeper too. So make two. One to give and one for you. Download this fab retro pattern HERE. Prints on 8.5" x 11" paper.

Thanks to Janie of RedCurlzs Vintage Patterns

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Free Patterns Everyday - Vintage Strawberry Pin Cushion Pattern

19th Century Strawberry Pin Cushion Pattern

The 19th Century woman didn't stray far from her sewing. Whether it was embroidering a cushion or a hankie, making or mending a dress, or decorating a hat, her pins and needles were always within reach. These lovely little strawberry pin cushions are easy to make with sawdust stuffing. A 12 inch diameter circle of fabric makes three pin cushions. Perfect as is or team up with a thimble and spool of thread as a gift for someone you know who sews. Download this easy to make pattern HERE.


Free Pattern Everyday - Dickie Bird Knit Mitts for Kids

1960's Dickie Bird Knit Mitts for Kids from Mary Maxim

More Mary Maxim Fun Mitts to knit for kids. Today we have the Dickie Bird Knit Mitts Pattern. Another quick to knit pattern for mitts that double as puppets. These patterns state that they are suitable for kids up to 12 years old but I bet they would be an awesome gift for any kid age 2 to 72 too! How fun. Download this fun and easy pattern HERE. Prints on 8.5" x 11" paper. 

Courtesy of RedCurlzs Vintage Patterns

Monday, October 13, 2014

Free Patterns Every Day - Crocodilly Mitts to Knit for Kids

1960's Fun Mitts to Knit from Mary Maxim


Fun knit mitts for kids. Say that fast three times. That's how fast these fun Crockodilly mitts knit up. And what a fun winter accessory. Add button or googly eyes and you have crocks that throw snow balls and an Everglades puppet show as a bonus. Make a pair for all of the kids on your Holiday gift list. Download this quick to knit pattern HERE. Prints on 8.5" x 11" paper. Look for another fun knit mitts pattern for kids in tomorrow's post.

Courtesy of RedCurlzs Vintage Patterns

Friday, October 10, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Cross Stitch Gingham Motifs

Cross Stitch for Gingham Motifs

There are few things I treasure more than the cross stitched gingham aprons that have been handed down to me. They speak of another era and are a welcome image of calm and order. Cross stitch is perhaps the easiest form of embroidery and placing X's on gingham check is a fool proof form of embellishment. With these easy to follow charted designs you can transform all things gingham into heirlooms that will be cherished for generations. Download Cross Stitch Gingham Motifs and get started on your holiday gifts.





Friday, October 3, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - 1950's Santa Sock Doll

1950's Santa Sock Doll

With less than 3 months until Christmas, there is no time to lose. Make time for parties. Make time for family and friends. Make gifts for those you love. Tick, tick, tick... Gifts to wrap, the house to be decorated, cards to be mailed... and don't forget to take the kids to see Santa.  Tis the season to be jolly. Fa la la la la la la la la. Short on time? Make this cuddly Santa sock doll for holiday gifts or decor. Who wouldn't love a soft and hugable Santa doll. Download this printable pattern to make Santa from white tube socks. Dress him with red felt or velveteen. Pattern includes instructions and patterns for doll and clothes.


Monday, September 29, 2014

His and Hers Christmas Shopping Lists - Don't Guess - 1950's Measurement Chart

1957 Measurement Chart from Woman's Day Magazine

To kick off the start of the Holiday shopping season, the pattern sellers on Goodsmiths would like to start you off on the right foot with this retro measurement chart to help make shopping for that special him or her hassle free. Download and enter size, preferences such as perfume and favorite color, and don't forget what style type they are this year. Is he or she exotic? Distinguished? Tweedy or Casual? This 1957 chart from Woman's Day Magazine may be rather retro looking but I bet you will be surprised at just how handy having this information at your fingertips will be.  

Friday, September 26, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF - 1960's Costume Patterns





Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF was a fund raising program sponsored by the United Nations Children’s Fund.

The event was originally founded by a minister and his wife from the suburbs of Philadelphia, PA in 1950.  The Allison’s devised the idea that the children of their local parishes would use decorated milk boxes to collect small change from neighborhood homes in lieu of candy while trick-or-treating ( Mrs. Allison originally got the idea a year earlier when she noticed UNICEF collecting donations to send powdered milk to poor children around the world).




By 1953 the U.S. Committee for UNICEF started actively promoting the Alison’s program.  By the 1960’s, the concept had spread throughout the United States; small orange collection boxes, printed with the UNICEF logo, were being distributed to millions of trick-or-treaters to collect donations.  In 1965, UNICEF wins the Nobel Peace Prize.  President Lyndon B. Johnson’s congratulatory letter to UNICEF extolled the virtues of the program that helped change the once often vandalous holiday into a program of basic training in world citizenship.  Lyndon Johnson eventually proclaimed 31 October 1967 “UNICEF DAY”.

 
 



In honor of the original UNICEF Day, the following is excerpted from Ladies’ Home Journal, October 1967:  Tricky New Costumes:  Beware the Halloween animals are on the loose…


Butterick 3193 – child’s costume; small, medium, large - each costume requires one twin-size Stevens sheet in appropriate animal pattern.  This pattern used for both lion and leopard.





 

Butterick 4152 – child’s costume; 6-14 - each costume requires one twin-size Stevens sheet in appropriate animal pattern.  This pattern used for both zebra and giraffe.

Download directions HERE.



Thanks to Karen from Oma's Bric-a-Brac for this contribution.

 


Friday, September 19, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Vintage Pumpkin Pincushion Pattern



The pincushion is one of the most essential tools a seamstress possesses. Magnetic pin holders may catch pins with ease but for pin retrieval, nothing beats the pin cushion. We all know the red tomato shaped pincushion, stuffed tightly with sawdust or roving, with the attached emery filled strawberry for sharpening pins. This form dates to the Victorian era when it was thought that placing a tomato on the mantel would bring prosperity to the home. Now, in honor of the approaching All Hallows Eve, you can make these pumpkin shaped pin cushions originally published in the October 1964 issue of Workbasket Magazine. If you are really daring you can transform your pumpkin into a jack-o'-lantern with a Sharpie pen and a pair of google eyes. This easy to follow pattern and instructions show you how. Download HERE.
Courtesy of CynicalGirl on Goodsmiths.

Friday, September 12, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Starched Masks for Halloween



Halloween costumes don't have to be costly or generic when you can make your own. These starched masks are easily made with fabric and the help of a balloon. Decorate to your hearts content and make something that will make you or your kids stand out from the crowd this Halloween. Originally published in the October 1966 issue of Pack-O-Fun magazine. Download instructions HERE.
Courtesy of CynicalGirl on Goodsmiths.

Thursday, September 4, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Quick Costume Ideas

Pack-O-Fun magazine, originally published by Clapper Publishing Company in Des Plaines, Illinois from the 1950s thru the 1970's, was a scrap crafting magazine packed with easy and inexpensive things to make with what you had at hand. At some point the title was purchased by Amos Publishing Company and ceased publishing this zine in 2011. Early issues can be found online and in resale book stores. 

Considering Halloween is approaching more quickly than you'd like to think, I have reproduced these "Quick Costume Ideas" from the October 1966 issue of Pack-O-Fun magazine. Download HERE.
Courtesy of CynicalGirl on Goodsmiths.

Monday, September 1, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - The Four-Point Pocket Square Fold Handkerchief

The Pocket Handkerchief
Comb your hair. Polish your shoes and tuck a handkerchief in your pocket. Seems simple enough. I remember my dad had a card with points glued to it that he slipped into his breast pocket when he had to present a more formal appearance. But the well dressed man has many options for the pocket handkerchief, or pocket square. I had no idea how many variations on the theme there were, complete with names.

Our Four-Point Fold, as pictured, is surely classic, but don't underestimate the Three-Point, the Two-Point, the One-Point or the Shell Fold. The Cagney, Cooper and Astaire, no doubt attributed to those handsome and debonaire screen stars from the 40's and 50's, are variations on the Puff. The Dunaway, Crown, Westco and Presidential are a few other folds with flair. One wonders if there is a secret society that allows certain pocket folds and not others. I think of the brooches Madaleline Albright  wore to reflect her moods while Secretary of State. Perhaps the pocket fold is not so dissimilar? 

The January 1955 issue of Workbasket published the instructions for the simple but elegant Four-Point Fold Pocket Square. Download Here.

Courtesy of CynicalGirl on Goodsmiths.


Friday, August 29, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Easy Dish Towel Apron

Easy To Make Dish Towel Apron from Woman's Day Magazine December 1954
It's not too early to think about Christmas. After all, the most celebrated event of the year is less than four months away. There is still plenty of time to begin your handmade gifts. And everyone likes to give gifts at Christmas, or whatever Holiday you are celebrating. Children too, enjoy participating in the ritual of exchanging gifts. To see the pleasure on someone's face when they receive your handmade gift is a gift in and of itself. This easy to make apron pattern, from the December 1954 issue of Woman's Day magazine, is fashioned from a checked dish towel and is a quick project for small hands with little sewing experience. It is a seldom seen practice but the habit of mutual exchange of gifts between aunts and nieces should be encouraged. These older role models are pivotal in the development of their young nieces and anything to strengthen that bond should be celebrated. Download the easy to sew pattern instructions HERE.

Courtesy of CynicalGirl on Goodsmiths.

Friday, August 15, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Bound Buttonholes Tutorial

Bound buttonholes are one of the telling marks of a quality garment. Though rare in the ready to wear marketplace, the home sewist can achieve the look of a couturier garment with the addition of bound buttonholes. And they are not difficult to do either. When I was a girl in junior high school, my friend's mom showed me how to make beautiful bound buttonholes. It was a game changer for sewing since my mom's old White sewing machine only had forward and backward stitches. Today I am flanked by nearly 20 machines that can do all manner of stitches but I still make my buttonholes by hand. This 1952 tutorial from Workbasket is a great guide to achieving success making bound buttonholes. Download here.
Courtesy of CynicalGirl on Goodsmiths.

Friday, August 8, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Easy To Make Felt Coin Purse

Easy To Sew Coin Purse from Workbasket September 1955
It could be a coin purse. It could be a tissue holder or a pretty holder for personal needs. Whatever your needs are will determine the size and shape. The basic pattern is adaptable to just about any proportion. And why not substitute Velcro® for the snaps making it even easier. Download instructions HERE. Courtesy of CynicalGirl on Goodsmiths

Friday, August 1, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Butterfly Evening Bag

Butterfly Evening Bag from Workbasket September 1955
Felt was the 1950's equivalent to Polar Fleece® of today. It doesn't fray or run. It comes in a variety of colors and textures. And you can use it to make just about anything. This lovely butterfly shaped handbag from Workbasket (September 1955) is beautifully embellished with sequins and beads. Make it in any color combinations that please you and try it with fleece. You may just start a new trend. Download instructions HERE.
Courtesy of CynicalGirl on Goodsmiths

Friday, July 25, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Ruffles and Roses for a Bedroom

1943 Ruffles and Roses Bedroom Set from The Spool Cotton Company
The dressing table, or vanity, was often a standard fixture in the ladies boudoir. Whether plain wood or Chippendale style or layers of gathered fabric skirts, the vanity was always accompanied by at least one mirror. Vanity tables were not only for women. The Beau Brummel, the gentleman's version of the dressing or shaving table, was named after the famous "Dandy" George Bryan Brummel. Vanity, thy name is man.... Or at least not exclusive to women. Recreate this 1940's bedroom set with this easy to follow DOWNLOAD from the 1943 "The Sewing Manual for Home Decorating". Prints on 2 8.5" x 11" sheets of paper. 
Courtesy of CynicalGirl.

Friday, July 18, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Bushel Basket Liner

Download this easy to follow instruction sheet to make a lining for a bushel basket.
The bushel basket, made of pine or oak slats, used by farmers for centuries, is a classic and simple design. This easy to follow pattern from The Hamilton Homemaker's Manual (1950©) shows you how to add an oilcloth lining taking this versatile carry all to your laundry room and beyond. An upcycled vinyl tablecloth with bright flowers or traditional red and white checkerboard transforms the lowly market basket into a cottage chic accent for just about anyplace you can imagine it. Prints on 8.5" x 11 sheet of paper.
Courtesy of CynicalGirl on Goodsmiths.

Friday, July 11, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Pretty Party Apron from Cannon Towels

Pretty Party Apron - Cannon Towels
"Make It With Towels" and "Make It With Sheets" were publications from the Educational Department of Cannon Mills, Inc. Published in the late 1940's through the early 1970's, these booklets included patterns and decorating ideas using Cannon linens. This Pretty Party Apron pattern, from a late 1940's or early 1950's (these were not dated) "Make It With Towels" booklet, includes directions to make this apron from two Cannon towels. Download HERE.
Courtesy of CynicalGirl on Goodsmiths.

Friday, July 4, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Easy Faux Fur Crop Tops

Easy Pullover Crop Tops
Easy to make faux fur pullover crop tops. A little folding, a little stitching and a little bias tape binding and you are ready for an evening on the town. Download this easy to follow charted pattern HERE.

Free Pattern Friday - Easy Pullover Ponchos

Easy Pullover Poncho Pattern
In about an hour you can make this hippie skippy fringed poncho. All you need is a 45" square piece of fabric, bias tape and fringe trim and you are hip to make the scene. Courtesy of AdeleBeeAnnPatterns on Goodsmiths. Download Pattern HERE.

Free Pattern Friday - Scarf Apron Tutorial

1940's Scarf Apron from the Ribbon Guild
These so simple to make aprons require only ribbon and 14" square scarves. Buy them new or mix 'em up from your stash for a shabby chic look. Use bandanas for an Americana apron. Any way you choose, the result will be uniquely you.
Courtesy of CynicalGirl on Goodsmiths.

Friday, June 27, 2014

Free Pattern Friday - Poinsettia Apron Pattern

1960s Poinsettia Cross Stitch Gingham Apron

It's not too early!
More cross stitch gingham to start your Christmas and Holiday gift stash. These pretty aprons feature cross stitch pine trees and Poinsettia with sequin center. Easy to follow instructions and embroidery charts print on 8.5 x 11 sheets of paper. Download HERE.

Courtesy of CynicalGirl on Goodsmiths

Friday, June 20, 2014