When I first started sewing, one of my challenges was finding patterns I wanted to sew. Few fabric stores in New York City’s Garment District sold sewing patterns, so it was easier for me to purchase patterns online. I found many more options among the vintage patterns for sale on Etsy and eBay than on the pattern company websites. There were more styles to choose from, a wider variety of garment types, and, often, better prices. As a long-time fan of vintage clothing, I also found the illustrations and photos on the pattern envelopes to be inspiring.

I used this 1930s Simplicity pattern to make my wool camo-print jacket, above.

There are many reasons why sewing menswear from vintage patterns is…