Put the Scissors Down! – why we shouldn't cut up vintage patterns

 

Now, this is a bit of a tricky one, isn’t it?

Over the years, we sewists can accumulate an astonishing number of patterns. Some are tucked away in boxes, some are in cupboards, and some seem to multiply when we're not looking. 😂

But what do you do when you have patterns you no longer want?

Please don't automatically put them in the recycling or cut them up for a craft project.

I know, I know… I do love a good bit of bunting as much as the next person. But some of these old patterns are becoming increasingly difficult to find, and once the original has been cut up, it's gone. There isn't another one waiting on the shelf.

If you have vintage patterns that you'd rather pass on, there are places worth asking before you reach for the scissors.

Museums and Collections

If your patterns are particularly old, unusual, or connected to a designer, manufacturer or period of fashion, a museum or archive may be interested.

The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) has collections covering textiles and fashion and does consider potential donations. They ask that you contact the relevant department first, with photographs and some information about what you have, rather than simply turning up at the museum with a box of patterns. V&A contact information

The Fashion Museum Bath is another place worth knowing about. Its collections include historic dressmaking material and 20th-century sewing patterns, so it's certainly the sort of organisation I'd contact if you have something special. Fashion Museum Bath collection

Of course, museums can't take everything. They have limited space and their own collecting policies, so don't be disappointed if they say no. It doesn't mean your patterns aren't lovely - it just means they may already have something similar.

Pass them on to another sewist

And sometimes the best home for a sewing pattern is simply another person who will love it.

Vintage pattern collectors, sewing-history groups, specialist dealers and fellow sewists can all be worth approaching. Someone who has been searching for that particular pattern for years may be absolutely thrilled to give it a new home.

That's really what I'd like to see happen.

Keep the originals intact. Let somebody else enjoy them.

And if you really do want to use a vintage pattern for a craft project, there's a wonderfully simple solution:

Scan it or photocopy it first.

Then you can make your bunting, lampshade, collage, whatever takes your fancy - and the original pattern can carry on being a pattern for another few decades.

Because honestly, ladies, we've only got so many of these old treasures left. ❤️

Save the original. Sew from the copy. Pass it on when you're finished.