This pattern is from the Commercial Pattern Archive.
Many of us have a soft spot for vintage patterns. We buy them up by the box-full at garage sales or even on eBay.
The University of Rhode Island has created the Commercial Pattern Archive, which gives you access to more than 48,000 vintage patterns, opening up a whole world of patterns and styles that date back to the 19th century. The archive is an official project of Save America’s Treasures.
The database is well-organized and searchable to help you find looks from the years 1868 to 2000.
The CoPA is an amazing resource for browsing vintage styles for inspiration, and it is a fashion course in itself, unveiling the history of garment construction and even body proportion.
While the force behind the archive, curator Joy Spannabel Emery, passed away in 2018, a limited but dedicated staff continues to respond to pattern inquiries and requests for pattern access.
Threads Recommended Products
Threads receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Brilliant Little Patchwork Collection by Kaffe Fassett
Kaffe Fassett is a renowned painter and textile designer known for his visionary use of color. Based in London, he was the first living textile designer to have a solo exhibition at the V&A in 1988. He designs fabrics for Rowan Patchwork and Quilting, knitwear for Rowan Yarns, and has authored over 70 books, including Quilts in Wales and Quilts by the Sea.
The Hendrix coat sewing pattern from Style Arc is an unlined, panelled design with long two-piece sleeves, a button or snap front, and optional top-stitching. It features binding along the neck, hem, and sleeves, along with angled patch pockets and dropped shoulders. Recommended fabrics include wool, linen, faux fur, or velvet, with fabric estimates and trim details provided for sizes 4-30.
Butterick, Misses’ Shirts and Shorts 6946 and 6947
This pattern makes fitted shirts with collar, sleeve, and cuff options, plus pleated shorts with a front zipper. Includes styles with rolled sleeves, turn-back cuffs, or a stitched hem. Sized for misses 4–12.
I am so excited to read about this history of garments catalog. Can we get a sample look at how it works before investing such a large sum?
Also does the membership include history lessons?
The Commercial Pattern Archive has been updated since this post was originally written. It is free to search and you don't need to create a log-in or membership account. The patterns are, for the most part, illustrated with their cover envelope and in some cases the guide sheet has also been scanned. You can't see the actual pattern pieces, nor are the patterns for sale. However, this is an incredible resource for inspiration. The search function is very detailed; you can search by date, garment type, designer, pattern publisher, and more. It's a fashion rabbit hole I can spend hours in, if I let myself!
Carol Fresia, Threads editor
We all want—and deserve—to feel great in our swimsuits. Do you want the perfect fit? Try making your own swimsuit this year. You may want to choose from one of…
Kayla Kennington blends machine precision with handmade artistry in this embroidery tutorial. Learn how to zhuzh up digitized motifs with beads, sequins, and personal flair.
Are we not allowed to view the patterns before getting a membership???
DEB57 - That is my question, also.
I am so excited to read about this history of garments catalog. Can we get a sample look at how it works before investing such a large sum?
Also does the membership include history lessons?
It looks like we can only see the pictures. No patterns as such. Am I right?
The Commercial Pattern Archive has been updated since this post was originally written. It is free to search and you don't need to create a log-in or membership account. The patterns are, for the most part, illustrated with their cover envelope and in some cases the guide sheet has also been scanned. You can't see the actual pattern pieces, nor are the patterns for sale. However, this is an incredible resource for inspiration. The search function is very detailed; you can search by date, garment type, designer, pattern publisher, and more. It's a fashion rabbit hole I can spend hours in, if I let myself!
Carol Fresia, Threads editor