Replies

1. 
   GailAnn | Nov 30, 2007 04:23am | #1

   Have not tried Simplicity Civil war patterns, but have made many men's 1870's shirts, coats, pants, using original garments as patterns.  These were made for a State Historical Site.  Might be able to answer a question.  Gail

2. 
   CostumerVal | Dec 03, 2007 06:21pm | #2

   Yes, I have.  The Simplicity costume patterns are actually drafted by designers that know what they're doing, and they are much better than Simplicity's clothing patterns.  I particularly like Martha McCain's mens patterns for authenticity, and I might add that they are better than "period patterns"  of which I always have to walk the seams because they are inaccurate.  Andrea Schewe's are easier to follow as they've been redesigned for machine assembly.  The ones marked specifically as "costume" have zippers and fast facings.  The ones marked "historical" are reproductions.  If your sewing for a historical society, check with them first.  Those people are crazy and the costume is a uniform.  They'll tell you exactly what kind of button is allowed.  I sew for group that uses the book "Rural Pennsylvania Clothing" as their costume bible.  I made a shortgown from the book out of cotton print fabric pictured in the book and was promptly advised that it was incorrect.  They only allow unbleached linen.  Which was uncommon in womens clothing according to the author.  So don't count on anything!  Furthermore, they are into their characters, and if you make your costume from the wrong color fabric, someone will tell you all about it.   Personally, I do what I want to do and stand up to the complainers.  So yes, I'm wearing the calico shortgown.

   Let me know how you do.  Val

1. 
   jothwade | Dec 03, 2007 11:17pm | #3

   I had no intention of authenticity of color and fabric. I thought the yoked men's drawers weere a great look for outer sport wear, that the shirts of various cuts would be great made from narrow strips pieced together.... I'll coinsider getting the patterns and giving them a go!Thanks for the consultation..Jotham

1. 
   CostumerVal | Dec 03, 2007 11:57pm | #4

   Oh good, you'll enjoy it without all the rules.  Anyway, I haven't tried the yoked drawers, I've made 5023 a few times (mens shirts and pants)  and I've got the vest and braces pattern also but haven't done them.  You'll have to be mindful that the period cut for mens pants was really really high.  My guys don't like it that the waistband is at the rib cage so they all wear them low and baggie.  Which I understand was neccessary for horseback riding.  However, they LOVE the shirt and request it in 100% linen.