POST BEGUN 0918HRS BST WEDS 29 JULY 2026
ATTENTION HOME SEWERS (although I'm reasonably certain you already know this): if you aren't yet plumping your paper sewing patterns library - START NOW!
Yes. I sew. I sew most of my clothing and a smattering of Paul's (during our most recent COF he found two shirts I made him several years ago and is pleased both still fit enough to wear comfortably, he now would like more, please). I have been sewing since 1961 (Gran-taught on a Super Nova Necchi I never got the hang of fitting the bobbin case properly - since Singer introduced the top-drop-in bobbin system I've been a sewing fool) but somehow, despite Gran's extensive Hollywood costume making success (1929-1965) and superb teaching method, I never learned how to draft sewing patterns so I rely on paper sewing patterns from The Big Four (Simplicity, Mccalls, Butterick, Vogue).
That is, I did rely on The Big Four until IG Design Group (the owner company) went out of business (2025) and new PAPER designs were no longer being released. Oh. Dear.
Thankfully I'd developed an extensive pattern collection including age and size ranges from infant-toddler through adult male and female. However, 'if you know, you know' - yes, I freely and unashamedly admit I would not only pore over the latest release catalogues but would buy at least three paper patterns from the new collection.
I can pattern hack with the best of 'em and the garments I've made using (for example) a Vogue bodice with Simplicity sleeves and a Mccalls collar have garnered many a 'Oh I love your dress, where did you buy it?'. I can copy off a garment using a tracing wheel and dressmaker carbon. But draft off the top of my head, nope, never got the hang of it.
Suddenly my sources for new paper sewing patterns was gone! Big Four sewing patterns became 'digital' only once remaining hard copy stocks were sold out. OMFG! I hate 'digital' sewing patterns! One, printing those damn things costs a small fortune and two, 'matching' A4 print-out to assemble a printed pattern is beyond frustrating to the point of near-impossibility.
Right. eBay to the rescue - paper stock sold at somewhat reasonable prices of vintage and new-uncut paper patterns can be found but buyers need to be crystal clear on sizes and condition. Also a good source (until stocks run out) is Amazon. Some sewing centres (online or local) are selling their stocks.
Car boot (flea market) and charity shops can be a source but again, buyers want to be crystal clear on what they're buying.
And then I discovered 'alternative' paper patterns. Who knew? OK, look, I was leary of these new paper pattern companies after two VERY disappointing experiences with Burda patterns. Too much faff including having to match sheets to form a pattern piece.
Tilly and The Buttons - eye-wateringly expensive and oh hey, I was expected not only to match sheets but also to measure off and cut without a piece of pattern paper to form the skirt! I'm sorry, £25 plus post and packing and I'm supposed to do all that??!!
I can go on naming Big Fail paper pattern companies but I won't. I will, however, tip all for a paper pattern company I've discovered that suits my needs nicely as long as I add the warning the following company assumes good working knowledge of garment construction without a need for hand-holding (yeah, ok, the Big Four did hand-hold, and I loved that!).
Style Arc. This is an Australian company making primarily 'casual' clothing sewing patterns for all ages. Reasonably-ish priced and printed on quality bond paper - I'm using a smooth tracing wheel and dressmaker carbon so my pattern stock is preserved without cutting the paper to a size. Basic construction instructions including seam allowance information (some use a traditional 5/8th SA, others a 3/5th and some a 1/4in SA) and as long as the sewer has a good hard copy sewing reference book library, garments go together easily enough. Garment styling is 'casual' (use your Vogue paper patterns to make more 'dressy' styles) but all-season wear is available including jackets and coats.
Last word? WHEN YOU SEE IT - BUY IT IF IT IS THE RIGHT SIZE AND STYLE TO MEET YOUR NEED! Do not think you can go off and think about it for a day or week or month because chances are it will be gone when you finally decide to buy. Yes, this is the voice of experience speaking. I was talking to another home sewer who said she dedicates one day a week to searching sources of paper patterns and like me she is finding those sources are either price-rising by the second or simply drying up all together.
Meanwhile I sit here waiting for the plumber - bathroom has sprung a leak. Last month it was the boiler gasket. sigh
POSTED 1020HRS BST WEDS 29 JULY (and WOOT, the plumber has just turned up!!)
