Replies

1. 
   user-172042 | Jul 11, 2006 11:01pm | #1

   In our city paper, we have a column called Good Neighbors. We write in and ask if, ex: anyone out there would be interested in free sewing patterns, ex: that they would be willing to pick up. The paper runs the add and then they send in, if they are interested. I'll bet you would get a lot of people wanting them.

1. 
   Teaf5 | Jul 11, 2006 11:16pm | #2

   Great idea, thank you!  Your suggestion reminded me that our local paper has a Free section of the classifieds in which we can place free ads for giveaway items.  It's always interesting to read what's available, and everyone in town uses it.  I'll try that first!

1. 
   suesew | Jul 12, 2006 04:57am | #3

   Do you have any local theatres or university or college costume studios nearby? They might be happy to add to their collections.

1. 
   Teaf5 | Jul 13, 2006 01:08am | #4

   We do have theatre groups & a university nearby, but I wasn't sure whether they were interested in non-costume type patterns.  I will check, though, so thank you for the idea.

1. 
   mainestitcher | Jul 13, 2006 05:10am | #5

   Our Salvation Army Ladies' Auxilliary has a fabric and craft fair every spring. They sell patterns for ten cents apiece.

2. 
   Teaf5 | Jul 15, 2006 04:31am | #6

   Thanks.  I will check out the Salvation Army donation possibility; the other thrift stores in our area won't accept patterns.

2. 
   Bionerd | Jul 15, 2006 09:10pm | #7

   I don't know where you live, but near my house in PA our local 4H Club has a fabric sale every year and accepts patterns, notions and fabric. I just cleaned out my closet this morning-great patterns but it's not likely I will be wearing an 8 anytime soon! Good luck.

3. 
   Ckbklady | Aug 17, 2006 12:56am | #8

   If you can't find a local charity that specifically does good with sewing patterns, you might consider giving them to your local Goodwill or charity shop. Here our Goodwill inspects them to make sure uncut patterns have their instruction sheet and folded pattern tissue, tapes them shut and sells them for 99 cents apiece. They will sometimes sell patterns that have been cut up, but they remind buyers that they risk missing pieces. If the local charity shop near you has a crafts section, they might be able to find good homes for your patterns.

   :) Mary

1. 
   Teaf5 | Aug 20, 2006 04:14am | #10

   Thanks for your idea.  It seems a crime to put them into the paper recycling bin!

4. 
   DONNAKAYE | Aug 18, 2006 03:31pm | #9

   Please, please, please contact some of the online vintage/second-hand pattern distributors so that they are available to the general sewing public!  I can do a search for you if you like.  I have purchased discontinued and older patterns myself and would love to see them available for us!

1. 
   Teaf5 | Aug 20, 2006 04:15am | #11

   That would be great; I would love them to go to people who would like to have them.