Odhams Encyclopaedia of Needlecraft Illustrated (n.d., early 1950s, first edition): Review (part 1)

 

Yet another boring date with Captain Batrachian. If he wasn’t careful, she’d shove his trans-dimensional tentacles down his throats.

Intergalactic travel wasn’t all she’d hoped for.

Dress Cutting by the Block Pattern System by Margaret C. Ralston (1932): Review, part 2

Drafting the pattern for Dress 2 and two garments based on this design.

Dress Cutting by the Block Pattern System by Margaret C. Ralston (1932): Review, part 1

First published in 1932, original editions of Dress Cutting are very rare. Fortunately it has since been edited and republished by Lacis Publications with the new title: Fashion Outlines. Dress Cutting has also been republished by Bramcost. This review is based on the Lacis edition.

 

Block pattern (sloper) drafting

A number of vintage sewing books include instructions on block (or sloper ) pattern drafting. Instructions are given on taking measurements from your body to draft a basic bodice, sleeve, skirt and occasionally trousers. You make up a prototype in calico (in Australia, NZ and the UK) or muslin (in the US). This prototype is called a “toile”. Having tried on the toile, you mark any changes necessary and modify the drafted pattern accordingly.