I have another pretty little book to share with you. This book from 1928 is Dressmaking Made Easy, published by McCall.
My favorite thing about this book is definitely the hand drawn illustrations. Not just those lithe 1920s ladies with their long hands elegantly stitching clothes together. But even the technical drawings have a sort of handmade wonkiness that is utterly beautiful to me. I want to frame them.
And check out that cutting table! Lucky lady.
It’s amazing how much information they could fit into books in those days. Today, I think we all expect mountains of clear and beautiful photographs. But the density and simplicity of vintage books like this really does have its benefits, don’t you think?
You can pick up this small and lovely book on Amazon for pretty cheap.
I love the old sewing books. I think I’ve begun to collect them. Many have most info not vastly different from today. I agree with you about the illustrations. Although I must say I do love the wonderful photos in new books. Oh well, I admit I love them all!. Isn’t the cover on your book charming!
You are a historian at heart–in my book, that’s a big compliment! Thanks for sharing these wonderful resources.
It’s that little bit of “wonkiness” that makes things exquisite. Thanks for sharing this!
PS By the time I looked there weren’t any on Amazon, but I did find a few copies on abebooks.com, in the USA and Australia.
I especially loved the beautiful old-fashioned methods of finishing the seams. These methods are still useful, sometimes, when the serger just is too
I especially loved the beautiful old-fashioned methods of finishing the seams. These methods are still useful, sometimes, when the serger just is too rough.
Over the years, I have collected older sewing books like the one you posted. I too appreciate the unique illustrated details and the complete written directions. Where did I find mine? Old thrift store bookshelfs, library sales, second hand bookstores. You found a treasure!
if you can’t find the book ina second hand or thrift store, go to to read it. If you can’t open that address, it is at the University of Wisconsin library website in pdf format