Book Giveaway: Seventeenth-Century Women's Dress Patterns

user-2428990 writes: I am totally fascinated!
Posted: 12:52 am on March 11th

Annie410 writes: Love historic costuing! Please pick me!
Posted: 11:44 pm on December 14th

tumorfarmer writes: I've always been interested in historical clothing, as well as historical re enactments. I moved to North Carolina 6 years ago, and now I have far more opportunities to participate in re enactments from more than one century! I have always loved dresses, too, & the older style of "traditional" costumes that women wore in different cultures around the world. I recently purchased an 1889 book on sewing, and was surprised at the complexity of sewing details before the sewing machine! When everything was done by hand, and therefore took much more time, the clothing was far more complex & detailed than what we wear today! While I tend to prefer the more simple styles with empire waists, due to my figure. I remain enthralled with centuries of incredibly crafted clothing, and will relish any opportunity to study the details! I just met another lady who participates in some of the reenactments for the civil war in NC, & she not only was wearing hand sewn traditional clothing true to the period, she had the correct sewing accoutrements, & showed me her wonderful sewing tools, her hand sewn jewellery containers, as well as other items she had sewn by hand. I would LOVE to make some of these for myself! What a wonderful way to share our history, as well as the talents of our ancestors!
Posted: 12:09 am on November 19th

LindaWP writes: I've my maternal grandmother's 2 notebooks, one for cooking and one for sewing. My mother's told me what an accomplished seamstress she was. The book would be a wonderful addition and obviously has more detail than grandma's notebook.
Posted: 6:19 pm on November 15th

hinlab writes: Would love to win this masterpiece! Looks like a great read
Posted: 8:58 pm on October 2nd

MzBizz writes: I have made renaissance garnment for myself and my husband as we are both interested in participating in "renaissance" events. More so, however, I'm fascinated with the techniques used in various time periods
Posted: 3:12 pm on September 30th

stacielgray writes: I would LOVE to win this book - I am totally obsessed with historical garments and would love this fantastic resource! As I always say to myself, "What would Claire Shaeffer do?" - she would enter this drawing and WIN THIS BOOK! :) Fingers crossed!
Posted: 10:59 am on September 27th

Trae666 writes: I would love to own this book because i am very interested in period clothing and how it is constructed.
Posted: 11:53 pm on September 26th

Trae666 writes: I would love to own a copy of this book because i love all the different types of historical fashions out there from the byzantine era to what you see on the streets today. The 17th century period clothing is my favorite of them all, so being able to win this book would help me build my period dress collection and give me a better insight to how they were constructed.
Posted: 11:52 pm on September 26th

Janay3md writes: I would love a copy of this. The author is known for her work on 17th century dresses, and it would be wonderful to have her observations and insights. The use of radiographs to illustrate design and technique is a welcomed addition to the usual description of period technique.
Posted: 3:31 pm on September 26th

valeb writes: amazing construction details and great photos, great addition to the world of sewing education
Posted: 1:32 pm on September 25th

busybeads63 writes: This is a beautiful that I would love to have and share with family and friends.
Posted: 9:44 pm on September 24th

lieseliruth writes: I remember the first time I went to the V&A.I was disappointed that the part of the museum with the period pieces was closed for renovations. I wandered my way up the stairs and stumbled across the textiles room. Row upon row of preserved fabric swatches were in the wooden cabinets. Finally was able to look at the fabrics that I only thought I could imagine. The first historical costume I sewed was from an original Elizabethan when I was 17. I've been fascinated with the technique of historical pieces ever since.
Posted: 5:21 pm on September 24th

Barbouille writes: My family(my great-great-great-grandfather's generation, I think) was in the lace industry in St. Gallen, Switzerland and I have always been very interested in historical textiles. The attention given to detail in those days was amazing.
Posted: 2:56 am on September 24th

Grace10 writes: With nothing new under the sun, we can all benefit from historical construction techniques, many of which are not widely known. The gorgeous handsewing and embroidery are enhancements that we can aspire to.
Posted: 1:44 pm on September 23rd

Reneesance writes: I'd love to win this book! A life long fan of historical dress and costume, I also worked for many years in various theatrical costume shops. These days I get my costuming fix by doing Renaissance and Steampunk events and I've never tackled this period but I'd love to do so!
Posted: 1:13 pm on September 23rd

Sewmeister writes: I first examined historical dressmaking in order to make barbie doll outfits for myself and my children. I wanted cool original outfits for the dolls. The more I learned the more I desired to bring back these old fashions and techniques into my regular sewing. My only source at the time was the local college's theater departments library. Since you can't keep these books, I have always desired to expand my personal library to include books on historical construction methods. So far I only have an old book on theater costume construction and a couture sewing book. This book looks wonderful and would be a wonderful addition to anyone's sewing library.
Posted: 10:01 am on September 23rd

Nat1964 writes: I love researching historical costume as they chart the changing roles of women and society through the ages. I also can't help going gaga over all those delicious hand stitched details.
Posted: 4:33 am on September 23rd

Corsetiere writes: This book would look very nice next to the rest of my historical costuming books and it certainly would get used as well. :)
Posted: 5:41 pm on September 22nd

dianakelley writes: I adore hand-sewing and love seeing how historical fashions are constructed. I'm so excited about the x-rays in this book--what a brilliant way to unlock what's hiding between the layers of fabric!
Posted: 9:34 am on September 22nd

jebeitz writes: I own 1 antique pattern and would love to have this book.
Posted: 2:04 am on September 22nd

DESPINAGR writes: i really, really want this book!!!!!!
Posted: 1:37 pm on September 21st

lovetostitch writes: I would love to have a copy of this book. I've sewn since I was very young, and have always been interested in historical clothing. I own several "antique" clothing items, one of which I occasionally wore as an underweight teenager while demonstrating spinning (by hand and by wheel). As I am now much older and the exact opposite of underweight, I only treaure and carefully store my lovely pieces. I still marvel at the complicated ruching and other techniques used.

I hve done some costuming for myself and my family (historical and fantasy) and I find that the more I learn about construction, the better my outcomes. Whoever receives this book will certainly get a gem!
Posted: 12:13 am on September 21st

showdog1719 writes: What a wonderful addition to anyone's library who takes the pride to make the inside as beautiful as the outside.
Posted: 6:47 pm on September 20th

MsUm writes: Fantastic design and handsewing. I am also a stage costume designer and sewer and would love to share this with our other designers. We have used V&A books in the past for inspiration and research for our period plays.

Love reading the comments from other avid sewers and designers. What a wonderful passion we all share!
Posted: 5:04 pm on September 20th

Krissiedoll writes: The cover of "Women's Dress Patterns" is in style- could be a drawing from the sketchbook of Comme des Garcons, or a steampunk dress! Very inspirational!
Posted: 4:49 pm on September 20th

Sew_Compulsive writes: I'd love a copy of this book as I'm fascinated with fashion history and the techniques of old!
Posted: 12:01 pm on September 20th

ModaOri writes: I have always wondered how garments from past eras were constructed. This would be a great addition to my library and to my sewing knowledge. Maybe I'll be inspired to recreate something spectacular.
Posted: 8:45 am on September 20th

azappa writes: I've always been enthralled by historic crafts & fashions and have made many garments as well as learned many 'ancient' (my kids term) crafts such as spinning, bobbin lace, crochet, knitting, quilting, embroidery, crewel, x-stitch, etc. I've also used people patterns to make doll costumes for dolls I've created, so it's kind of an obsession with me and I've collected over 10k books in my various hobbies and especially love to collect ones printed in the 1800's or early 1900's. So this book will be added to my collection, it's just a question of, if I'm lucky enough to win it or will I need to haul my sorry ass away from my crafts long enough to drive the 45 miles to the nearest bookstore. (I live in out back and beyond) Thanks for the great contest and for showing me another book that must be adopted into our family.
Posted: 1:14 am on September 20th

Minishell writes: Love the images. I make costumes for my adult children and their friends - both for Halloween and the Renaissance Faire (2 of them work there). This book has some amazing ideas! I love, love, love it!
Posted: 6:29 pm on September 19th

pattyman writes: Because the inside is sometimes more spectacular the the outside.
Posted: 2:34 pm on September 19th

Pateho writes: How much fun would this be??? An excellent addition and most valuable to learn some of the amazing techniques of the day before synthetics came to be a player!
Posted: 1:38 pm on September 19th

Mimi_Oh writes: Opps...it double posted. Sorry about that :-D
Posted: 9:20 am on September 19th

Mimi_Oh writes: What a lovely book and I'd love to add this to my library!!! Making historically accurate clothing based upon actual garments themselves is a boon to any sewer. From the description listed in your article it sounds like the author went to great lengths and spared no detail to get underneath a garment to see what and how it was made. I truly would love to have this book to make an accurate reproduction garment based upon the 15 patterns that are in the book. This book would also aid me in the dressing of the porcelain dolls I make as well. What a fantastic give-away!!! Here's hoping....
Posted: 9:19 am on September 19th

Mimi_Oh writes: What a lovely book and I'd love to add this to my library!!! Making historically accurate clothing based upon actual garments themselves is a boon to any sewer. From the description listed in your article it sounds like the author went to great lengths and spared no detail to get underneath a garment to see what and how it was made. I truly would love to have this book to make an accurate reproduction garment based upon the 15 patterns that are in the book. This book would also aid me in the dressing of the porcelain dolls I make as well. What a fantastic give-away!!! Here's hoping....
Posted: 9:18 am on September 19th

sweetz writes: Wow, what a fabulous book. I've become very interested in these types of historical books. What a great way to incorporate some original couture elements into today's sewing.
Posted: 10:49 pm on September 18th

Bright1 writes: I have been pattern & costume mad since I was a teenager. Now in my forties I am blessed to have me plus 2 children to sew for. A copy of this wonderful publication would be terrific to read & enjoy. It would also be great to create one of the many garments featured and to have a go at mastering one of the forgotten arts such as Seventeenth-Century style embroidery.
Posted: 6:26 am on September 18th

lewkmc writes: I'm a avid seamstress and have made numerous costumes for my daughter and her friends. For her school re-enactments of Colonial Days and RenFaire, I studied and copied patterns of the period. This book would be a lovely addition to my resource library!
Posted: 10:21 pm on September 17th

blakitykat writes: so many people entered already, but this book sounds so amazing that it is worth trying for.
Posted: 9:51 pm on September 17th

MistressTailor writes: This book looks amazing!!! It's actually in my amazon wish list. As a self-taught, aspiring designer this book would be a great addition to my collection. Everything that I've learned, so far, has been from books and I always look forward to finding new and interesting books to learn from.
Good luck everyone!
Posted: 7:51 pm on September 17th

Kayle9 writes: I sew historical costumes as a favor to friends who participate in a variety of different historical re-enactment groups. Plus, I've been known to wear costumes as part of my lectures on different political eras to help students understand the culture that led to some of the laws passed (My "day job" is as a polisci professor -- sewing keeps me sane).

Posted: 12:06 pm on September 17th

mhdehaven writes: This book is a delight. I volunteer at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site and we continue to restore Mrs. Harrison's gowns. She has some of the most exquisite gowns and interesting day dresses and suits. I would love to be able to share this book with our volunteers and gleen all the wonderful information on how period clothing was created. I have made one jacket and walking skirt by the old methods and it fits much better than today's clothing. Thank you for wanting to share this book with some deserving person. I selfishly hope it might be me.
Posted: 11:25 am on September 17th

Gloveuse writes: What a beautiful book !
I think i could dream all the day long just having a look at the pictures.
In Paris (I'm french, so excuse my broken english please), there is a museum of costumes called Galliera, it makes me think of it. Those fabrics and the way they've been sewn together are such a treasure to save and admire !
Good luck to every one and hello from Paris (under the rain today !)
Claire.
Posted: 10:45 am on September 17th

Bryan1977 writes: Oooh, pick me! I think the book will help me recreate period details in my modern creations.
Posted: 7:35 am on September 17th

SM2 writes: GASP! Me, please!! :)
Posted: 4:08 am on September 17th

Kate_13 writes: I love researching many aspects of historical life, particulary clothing and cusine. I love to then look at ways to incorporate these techniques and designs into a modern interpretation. The detailed photos in this book look just great.
Posted: 3:34 am on September 17th

GreyBird writes: Thank you for another opportunity to own an invaluable sewing resource. Any person who sews is naturally interested in how garments have evolved, especially since they were once so elaborate and complex. AND, all done without a machine!!
Posted: 9:48 pm on September 16th

Artemisia writes: I've recreated historically correct italian renaissance clothing and am dabbling in 18th century clothing for the past five years. I consider myself an advanced beginner costumer, and am always looking to learn more. I recently made my first robe francais (or sacque gown), and am buying all sorts of books right now to expand on my knowledge. I enjoy the challenge of making/draping my own gowns without the use of ready-made patterns. I believe a book such as this one (which is already on my must-have list) would help me greatly in my endeavors.

Thanks!
D Velasquez
aka Artemisia Moltabocca
dressdiary.blogspot.com
Posted: 3:30 pm on September 16th

ella77 writes: I love to sew and would love to read this book on the sewing methods used in historical times. I feel one is never too old or full of enough knowledge. This book would be a great resource in my sewing library. Thanks for the giveaway!!
Posted: 2:29 pm on September 16th

scarrlett writes: Looks like a great tutorial!
Posted: 2:11 pm on September 16th

Axejudge writes: I enjoy making historical outfits, and this would be very helpful!
Posted: 1:56 pm on September 16th

Sewitall2 writes: I would love to win this book! It is so interesting to see the construction techniques that were done so very long ago when they didn't have all the electronic gadgets that have become our sewing machine. Today, many people rely on the sewing machine to do many tasks that were done by hand. Dressmakers of that era were artists in creating wonderful garments! I would love to have this book to see the secrets they hid in their garments!

Posted: 12:42 pm on September 16th

Genie48 writes: Oh my, yes this would be a wonderful addition to my sewing labrary.
Posted: 12:38 pm on September 16th

DebraDianne writes: What a lovely book! But I'd also like to know about the women who created such garments. I'll either win the book or buy the book.
Posted: 11:50 am on September 16th

puntopunti writes: Please tomorrow is my birthday! I will like to win!
Posted: 11:29 am on September 16th

Zippylady writes: This book would feed my love of history and my love of sewing, all at the same time. Imagine the conditions these garments were made in. Picture the ladies who toiled over these works of art. this book would be wonderful to own.
Posted: 10:47 am on September 16th

SandraMC writes: The evolution of clothing has always held a unique fascination for me, from the use of some ragged furs to today's production of the finest polymer threads. The era of this book is one of the most amazing times of clothing construction, given the limited tools - at least compared to today's!
Posted: 10:31 am on September 16th

Knitnut writes: I would like to copy and paste ALL of the comments above because they all are my thoughts and feelings exactly! I stopped short of buying this book just a few days ago. Would absolutely love to win it! Thanks Threads, for another wonderful opportunity!

Posted: 10:08 am on September 16th

radlook writes: Great looking book for those of us who are interested in the changes in dressing
Posted: 10:04 am on September 16th

Sewballet writes: I am a costumer, this book would be a wonderful addition!
Posted: 9:19 am on September 16th

mmerry writes: I'd love to have this book. I'm very interested in historic garment construction.
Posted: 9:18 am on September 16th

Spin2Knit writes: ... Thank you for this giveaway! I have always had a fascination with garment construction during this era.
Posted: 8:57 am on September 16th

jeness writes: This book has been on my "to buy" list for a little while. I would love to win this book as I am interested in both history and clothing and would one day like to recreate a gown from this era.

Posted: 7:51 am on September 16th

scarlin3 writes: This would make a great addition to my library. I love the detailed pictures of construction...eye candy all the way!
Posted: 7:45 am on September 16th

Almis writes: The clothes were very good made time ago, I want to learn everything about it, I love to sew.
Posted: 7:42 am on September 16th

2sewmore writes: As anyone who has a passion for sewing, vintage clothing and costumes teach us about the fine art of clothing design. The details, many hand stitched, add texture, line, and style to a garment.

I collect books on sewing, fashion, interior design, art/crafts. There's always one more to add to the collection. I read my books cover to cover, and many times refer to them for ideas and instruction.

My husband is an art teacher and sometimes uses my books for his classes.

Good luck to all!!
Posted: 7:42 am on September 16th

animalkah writes: It's a dream of mine to create custom Renaissance costumes, and I know that the re-enactors strive for historical accuracy. This would be an invaluable tool.
Posted: 7:36 am on September 16th

SunnyRoseGardens writes: i only need this because my 18 and 19 year old daughters are full scale re-enactors, and i have been winging it, thus far, but NOW they want "period-correct".....no more mommy shortcuts. egads.
Posted: 7:30 am on September 16th

renaissancesun writes: I love to learn about the construction and details of period clothing, and the reasons for them, and I enjoy incorporating what I learn into modern garments. It looks like a nifty book!
Posted: 7:28 am on September 16th

sewmesomething writes: I so love vintage clothing patterns. Making them for costumes parties was so fun and orginal.
Posted: 7:28 am on September 16th

coolmommy writes: Love historical clothing!
Posted: 7:25 am on September 16th

janith writes: Working with Strawbery Banke's Passion for Fashion and touring their historic garment collection has given me a tremendous passion for the methods used in the past. This would be a great resource.
Posted: 7:19 am on September 16th

AmberGlow writes: I can often understand how to construct a garment by studying it closely, and I always seem to learn something new by studying the past. This would be a wonderful piece of history to examine!
Posted: 7:14 am on September 16th

Brandyfroufrou writes: I enjoy making costumes for Halloween and making historically accurate costumes combined with zombie makeup makes for a really great costume!
Posted: 6:41 am on September 16th

cathlynr writes: I would love to have a copy of this book! I am a long-time costumer, but have been looking to shift my interest and sewing into more historical garments.
Posted: 6:33 am on September 16th

GinnyLynn writes: One of the things that I'm constantly drawn to in garment making is the techniques used historically to create shape and structure - something much of our clothing today has a decided lack of. This book would be a treasured resource in my library that I would go back to again and again and again.
Posted: 6:22 am on September 16th

DDSS2000 writes: WOW, what an informative resource. This would be a great addition for anyone asked to recreate period costumes as well as inspiration for new ideas.
Posted: 6:20 am on September 16th

Leesy writes: I weave and love to see items which might be loom-shaped; I have an interest in historic textiles; and I certainly enjoy sewing. I am going to need this book on my shelf.
Posted: 6:18 am on September 16th

Andysmom writes: I am a member of a Victorian Society. We have an annual ball, do dance demonstrations, teas, croquet and other benefits. We have our dresses and suits made as accurately as possible. This book would be a wonderful addition to my library and a reference to others in our club.
Posted: 11:30 pm on September 15th

elizabeth001au writes: Whats old always comes new again with time. Theres always something we can learn, recycle or improve on from history. Its a great starting point for design inspiration.
Posted: 6:45 pm on September 15th

lou19 writes: X ray photos! I'm really excited and intrigued by this.
There is so much to learn from the construction of historic costume........thank goodness someone is making detailed photos and notes of thes garments which surely even with careful conservation cannot last forever.
Also museum trips are often frustrating the lighting so dim only able to view gowns from a single angle........books like this are invaluable.
Posted: 4:07 pm on September 15th

ncloutier writes: I am a student of fashion design and textiles at the University of Rhode Island and I am extremely interested in historic costume in particular costume from 17th c GB especially waistcoats and corseted bodices. Thank you!
Posted: 3:16 pm on September 15th

ElaineElise writes: I love to sew and I love history! I so need this book!!!!!
Posted: 2:10 pm on September 15th

Annie410 writes: I love history and I love to sew. I need this book!
Posted: 1:57 pm on September 15th

lucelu writes: I love to read old sewing books and historical costume books to learn what kinds of sewing construction techniques were used to create desired effects. This book looks like it gives up all the secrets of the historical garments visually which is a treat as one does not need to guess or dissemble the pictured treasures.
Posted: 6:38 am on September 15th

cindy_sews writes: Wow! This book sounds amazing. It would be a treasure for a hand stitcher like myself! I already recreate heirloom children's clothing, and I am ready to start recreating heirloom adult clothing for my daughter that is grown up now! So many of these heirloom elements are found in today's clothing. I would love to learn these techniques.
Posted: 11:14 pm on September 14th

KayGV writes: I have dreamed of being a costumer all my life, but never got the chance to go beyond making costumes for Halloween for my children (now grandchildren) or Civil War reenactment outfits for my husband. This book seems an ideal way to immerse myself in the construction details of 17th century design as well as to satisfy my hunger for pure "eye candy" from the renown Museum of Victoria and Albert without a trip to London! I have so enjoyed books by Martha Pullen about the various garments she has collected herself and the ones in the DAR and Kent State museums in the U.S., and have tried to emulate some of the design details in quilts and garments I have made for myself or others.

It is essential that we not lose track of the history of how these creations first came into being through the intense labor and devotion of the seamstresses. It is equally important that we make some translations into simpler techniques through modern technology. I believe this book could advance my personal journey in honoring history and keeping the creative spirit alive. I truly hope that I win!
Posted: 10:55 pm on September 14th

WAK writes: I have been making costumes for various local theaters, school productions and now for my daughter's Texas Renaissance Festival character. I have made many many in the past and am working on the current costume and looking forward to working on the next. I don't know what I would do if I didn't sew or craft something on a regular basis. I would love to own this book for sure. It would fit nicely with the rest of my books and magazines I have in my wonderful sewing room that I call all my own.
Posted: 10:35 pm on September 14th

Weezie17 writes: I love historic clothing. It gives us a glimpse into a society as a whole; economy, technology, culture, political ties, and even religion.

I have been doing historic costuming, as a hobby, for years. My library is a little thin in this time frame. I would love have this book as an addition to my library.
Posted: 8:32 pm on September 14th

Out_West writes: I simply love history! And I love sewing! I would love to know what are tried and true methods. And I would love to win this book!
Posted: 8:04 pm on September 14th

Mrs4Him writes: I love everything about vintage patterns/designs--the techniques used, fabrics, style variations between periods of time. Being so interested in garment construction, I love to know how those before us sewed their garments-the socio-economic status of what people wore and how it played into the overall history of the country at the time and social customs or norms seen thru those garments.
Posted: 6:32 pm on September 14th

mgastnz writes: I am a textiles and fashion design teacher in a highschool in New Zealand. My original background is in costume, so you can imagine where I lead my students! I greatly value historical garments as they say alot about the time they were made and can teach us alot about why we wear what we wear today. The techniques used in this book will be of great value to my students and myself when creating costumes for school productions, wearable art, and high end design ideas. Thanks heaps for the opportunity.
Posted: 6:11 pm on September 14th

tnjmom writes: I don't live near a museum that would allow me to have access to garments this old. A book that shows and describes the techniques used by a long ago seamstress is utterly fascinating!
Posted: 4:46 pm on September 14th

vwren99 writes: I like learning historical sewing techniques because it makes me feel connected to generations of strong women who have found empowerment in domestic arts. (Although sometimes domestic arts are held in little regard, I know that they are what has held civilization together, and I love feeling like I am a part of the continuum!)
Posted: 2:33 pm on September 14th

seemless writes: It's always cool to see how things were done, and with this book, "see" is definitely the word!
Posted: 1:05 pm on September 14th

mtrose59047 writes: I think the thing I like about historical clothing is the detail and the sheer amount of work that went into clothes back then. Man I would love a copy of that book.
Posted: 10:22 am on September 14th

bakertoo writes: What a wonderful sounding book this is. I love to sew, and really appreciate all those details that make a garment so wonderful to wear, especially the details that are inside a garment. What a great use for an x-ray machine, because any body who sews, and goes to a clothing exhibit, well, we are usually desperate to know those delicate and intricate bits that lurk inside!
I would love to own this book,and sure hope there are more in the making.
Thanks for the opportunity to win it.
Posted: 10:22 am on September 14th

marymary writes: As a collector of old and new sewing books, I would love to add this to my library. I have been sewing for many years, but still like to find different ways to construct garments. This book is unique in showing the inner construction and design. Would love to be able to read it.
Posted: 9:43 am on September 14th

Michigwen writes: My study of vintage clothing began in the early 80's when I opened a tailoring shop in a small strip mall. The economy was similar to the one we have today and everyone hung on to their quality clothes by repairing and altering. Understanding the construction of a garment makes altering and fitting much easier and in this book's preview it looks to be a marvelous tool for garment construction and repair.

My special interest these days are the closures and trims used on garments and I have a collection of vintage buttons, trims, and buckles. It is a continual learning process and provides me with a challenging hobby filled with friends around the country and continual admiration of the artistry in buttons and garments.

Inspired by the words of Mary Kay Ash, "Find a need and fill it.", the business is still alive and well and three employees had opened store fronts of their own. My best wishes to fellow readers that are out there "making a way".
Posted: 8:44 am on September 14th

racu writes: old techniques are new techniques for me! Lovely book
Posted: 8:34 am on September 14th

angellady writes: I especially love Charles Frederick Worth designs of the Victorian period. I would love to see the techniques used in clothes of that era. I hope I win!

Posted: 8:12 am on September 14th

lhartup writes: I would love to have a copy of this book. Historical clothes construction is fascinating to me.
Posted: 8:08 am on September 14th

gwtw1936 writes: What looks so interesting is getting a glimse into the inner workings of these histoical garments.
Todays fasions are generally so flat and boring.
My passion is recreating the costums from historical films.
It is suprising how much detail was put into the costumes of the films from Hollywood's Golden Age.
A semastress never has enought books for reference sinc one works from the books to check techniques and detials.
Posted: 8:03 am on September 14th

rakijaa writes: This is a fantastic idea for a book series. Most of my work is inspired by historic clothing; having more resources into the design and construction of any garment is always exciting. This is as close to being in the archives at the V&A as I will probably ever get!
Posted: 7:28 am on September 14th

LoracC writes: This looks like a wonderful book. I love reading how garments were put together in any era! What a great addition to my library this would be.
Posted: 7:24 am on September 14th

cocogone writes: Lot's of great pictures, sewing construction books can never have too many.
Posted: 6:48 am on September 14th

minimom writes: I have recently volunteered at our local living history park, and will be needing to make my own period clothing. The Seventeeth-Century Women's Dress Patterns book seems like the perfect place to start my research!
Posted: 6:31 am on September 14th

Chantel17 writes: Historical clothes! What could be better to see and wear??!!! We all look better in our history clothes! I love the detail and the fit..so intriguing!
Posted: 6:12 am on September 14th

kdlorente writes: As a costumer there is nothing better I like than historical patterns. No matter what era you look at it reinforces that wonderful feeling of being a princess when you wear a twirly dress. I also started the practice a few years ago of getting a doll to make a smaller costume for display. I got the idea from the historical practice of sending costume patterns to North America from Europe in small dolls.

One day I hope to be able to afford one of these amazing dolls. They were perfect miniatures of the dress design. Can you imagine hand sewing a teeny, doll of one of the amazing creations of the seventeenth century?
Posted: 5:56 am on September 14th

Pilbeam writes: I love making historical garments. I've currently only used modern patterns, but I'm starting to use actual historical ones, so a book like this would be amazing to have as reference!
Posted: 4:51 am on September 14th

alittlebirdsaid writes: I adorein historical fashions and foundations and study them with great interest. I used to design wedding gowns with a historical slant and found books like this invaluable.
I have opened a small sewing shop/boutique and am finding my feet, but I am confident I shaould like to offer sewing classes for Brides and encourage them to make their own gowns. This book would be a great asset to my collection. I would like to open a lrage sewing school with cafe etc, but one step at a time!
Thank you threads. Andrea.
Posted: 4:19 am on September 14th

carlina writes: I'd love to learn old techniques and maybe use some today, that would be so great! Thank you!
Posted: 3:42 am on September 14th

sazzyfrazz writes: I think this is a wonderful skill and artform that should be revived! To me, vintage fashion still has a place in our modern times!
Posted: 1:23 am on September 14th

TalyQu writes: That sounds so interesting! It would be so good to be able to explore how things were done before our era. My daughter is also very interested in fashion and vintage design, it would be a great resource for her as well.
Posted: 12:49 am on September 14th

Miira writes: I am fascinated with how the techniques used shape and emphasize the female form, and how this has changed over the years. After all, those women in the bustles are the same as the ladies of the 1930's who wear clinging bias cut fashions. Our bodies haven't changed much, but how different they have looked over the years. So does the fashion affect the culture, or does the culture affect the fashion?
Posted: 11:50 pm on September 13th

Tourbillion writes: I have always liked historical costumes, not really sure why. However, my current goal is to become a motion picture costumer. The book would help me learn new things about 17th century costume construction.
Posted: 10:47 pm on September 13th

Judi_W_06 writes: I am a doll maker and I love to take the historical patterns and recreate them in doll size.
Posted: 10:37 pm on September 13th

tinapickles writes: I'm very interested in learning "old" techniques and maybe modifying them to modern clothing. This book would be an awesome place to start!
Posted: 10:29 pm on September 13th

Artwear writes: I just KNOW, given the source of the book, that it could make my clothing skills soar !!!!!
Posted: 8:59 pm on September 13th

bian writes: Im 25 and just entering the exciting and stressfully wonderful costume industry. There are times when I'm standing in the workroom, surrounded by a sea of talented costumiers and the enormity of how much i have yet to learn shocks me.
I have started a costume book shelf in my room, so I'm hoping this book can go next to 'the victorian tailor' and 'british textiles' that currently have pride of place.
Supporting yourself in the creative arts is hard. These competitions are important to a lot of us. thankyou.
Posted: 8:07 pm on September 13th

msfroggy writes: I would love this book. I have so much to learn in the construction and fitting of historical items.
Might even share it with my daughter who creates costumes of all kinds, and loves to do historical pieces accurately.
It would be great for both of us!
Posted: 8:04 pm on September 13th

Moonchaser writes: I enjoy learning about older techniques used in the construction of garments.

Posted: 7:22 pm on September 13th

Thimblefingers writes: I would love to own a copy of this book. I used to work in a professional theatre and we made historcially accurate costumes. This book would be such a pleasure to add to my experiences.
Posted: 7:21 pm on September 13th

Tru writes: just to see the pictures of these garments, close-ups and get sewing details would be great. Add to that a way to re-create 17 items is absolutely awesome. I would love to win a copy of this book.

Posted: 7:17 pm on September 13th

Francesca94402 writes: I love making costumes. I was overjoyed when the community college had a course in actually making historical costumes (which followed history of fashion). I look at all fashion now through different eyes, considering what went into the design.
Posted: 6:30 pm on September 13th

Dressmakers_dummy writes: After all my years of sewing I am finding that I have more interest in historical dress and costumes - mostly through volunteering at a local theater. This book would be extremely helpful! Please Please...
Posted: 6:15 pm on September 13th

DebraBC writes: I love to learn. I would love to investigate how the construction of clothing has changed and remained the same. This knowledge will enhance my skills as a seamstress and I would love to pass along this knowledge to other sewing enthusiast that I know.
Posted: 5:52 pm on September 13th

Tsaraph writes: I have loved historical clothing since I was a young girl. I would often dress up in the best imitation costumes I could put together (which sorely lacked in authenticity) and visit our local historical village. As a teenager I sewed my first historical pioneer costume; complete with a zipper instead of buttons. My most recent attempt at sewing historical clothing was from an historically correct pattern and turned out quite nice, though I still have a lot to learn. I was amazed by the detail that went into an Edwardian pattern; I can't imagine what went into a 17th century pattern. We sure have simplified our clothing since that time!
Posted: 5:47 pm on September 13th

alaskanwalela writes: I am interested in historic garments for a variety of reasons. As a sewer, I am always fascinated by the "how" of garment construction. As a woman, there is the "why" of fashion choices in various cultures and eras. And then there is I just plain love to look at beautiful and well-made clothes!
Posted: 5:47 pm on September 13th

marg writes: April, I love the older clothes becuase they teach us about sewing over the years. I think we need to always look to the old to learn how to make the new. We all need this information. Also I would love this book. I think it would be interesting to make some of those clothes.
Posted: 5:38 pm on September 13th

jeanmarie1946 writes: I've always been deeply interested in construction and construction techniques. The progression of construction is what interests me most with respect to costume (apparel) history. The styles unique to each era bring with them specific construction techniques that we do not often see in today's apparel unless you purchase high-end goods. While there has been a progression of techniques, it is also amazing to see that some have remained the same over centuries. This book brings a new dimension in an age when 3D and body scanning are making headway in the apparel industry. I have been somewhat involved in the repair of antique garments, but I have also altered gowns to fit the daughters of the women who wore them. I must say that past construction techniques made alteration much easier than garments that are made today. The seam allowances in particular were wider in the past making it possible to enlarge a garment that you probably could not do today without adding to the original.
Posted: 5:33 pm on September 13th

hollysmess writes: A few years ago I was searching for 17th-century dress patterns and not finding a whole lot. I have a beautiful old faerie tale book full of illustrations of lovely princesses in these styles. I'm glad to see that options are expanding for stitchers who admire this graceful era.
Posted: 5:23 pm on September 13th

sew46sews writes: This looks like a fascinating book. Being able to see the detail work that makes the garment both elegant and sturdy is wonderful. The x-rays are a unique way to really see "how" the garments are constructed.

This book is a journey I would love to take.
Posted: 5:05 pm on September 13th

momosmom writes: As a professional dressmaker and costumer, this book would hold a place of honor on my bookshelf!
Posted: 4:57 pm on September 13th

Kealoha writes: Ooh! This would be a great addition to my library. I love to see how art imitates the life in different times and eras.
Posted: 4:36 pm on September 13th

Frances_NZ writes: I would love to win this book. I love looking at older garments and seeing the construction and hard work that went into making them. There isn't really anywhere where I live that I can see historical garments like these so it is wonderful to read about them instead.
Posted: 4:34 pm on September 13th

englishgypsy writes: I would love to own this book! I am from England originally, and known the V & A collection from years of visiting when I was younger. I didn't really appreciate historical garments for their design and construction until fairly recently - I have always had a love of antique shoes though! I began revisiting clothes construction as an upcycler - taking things apart and reconstructing them, and making things up as I went along....this eventually led me to vintage clothes as I scoured estate sales for things to use. Taking apart old unwearable pieces made me realize how well older clothes were constructed, how long they lasted - enduring washing and mending and prolonged wear, handed down over generations. This isn't something you could do with a lot of contemporary clothes, and much as I campaign for recycling of clothes, it's shocking to see things actually thrown away because they need repair or cleaning. So this book would certainly add to my education and would be an inspiration for my own designs! Thank you for listening! Sarah
Posted: 4:28 pm on September 13th

SewCindy writes: I have always had an interest in historical garments. There are different ways to gain knowledge of a society and insight into their perceptions of that time. One of these ways is through fashion. Historical garments are also important as they provide sewing and construction techniques that may have been lost otherwise. This book provides a window into that past and would make a great addition to any library.
Posted: 4:27 pm on September 13th

MagaliLT writes: I would love to have this book. As many sewers, I collect books of all kind about sewing and my latest addition are about historical garments. I still don't have one about that era. That would be so great!!

Posted: 4:20 pm on September 13th

Spiewaks writes: I love historical garments because of the detail and the care that went into their construction. The artistry that went into the more expensive garments simply can't be matched by machines today and few people have the skills to execute such work. Garments were made to last and so it was worth putting extra time and effort into them. A finely made garment flattered the wearer. That said, I have to say that I am so glad I didn't live in the era of corsets. I must admit that clothes now don't seem as elegant, but they're so much more comfortable.
Posted: 4:14 pm on September 13th

MLB116 writes: Our history is full of stories about women and the way they expressed themselves, including through the sewing and design arts. This is a great book.
Posted: 4:02 pm on September 13th

jennieMB writes: I love to see the history of women through clothing and jewelry. I love collecting both categories of vintage and to me the older the better. Personally I find it very hard to find the older stuff; I feel lucky to find a piece from the 20s or 1800s. I have all these black and white pics of my family from over a hundred years ago and I think how I wish I had or knew where those dresses and necklaces were today.
Posted: 2:24 pm on September 13th

Couturegirl writes: What an amazing book! This would be a wonderful addition to a sewing library.
Posted: 1:25 pm on September 13th

sews4fun writes: I would LOVE to have a copy of this book as I have long been an admirer of vintage clothing. I collect antique gowns ( I only have a few ) but they are my treasures!
I cared for an elderly aunt who was a fashion maven and had the most amazing pieces dating back to the forties. I have all of her hats and many of her dresses and even some photos of her wearing the dresses.
Although I have already invested in a few CD'S that have styles from the 1700's and upward, I don't have anything that provides detailed information on historic garments.
I have a mourning gown that needs repair as well as a velvet and silk gown that is also sorely in need of repair and this book would be very useful to me. I am keeping my fingers crossed!!!!
Posted: 1:15 pm on September 13th