Following a 1900's Blouse Pattern : Sewing through the Decades

[@richardsteele6469]

Back in those days the fabrics used were simple and most commonly muslin. The ecru color wasn't as expensive as white ecru because pricing it was based on the number of steps to produce it. White muslin had the extra steps of bleaching and dying. White and colored fabrics were harder to launder because stains could set easier into the fabrics. Today our clothing goes through multiple steps including chemical treatments to keep certain fabrics fire retardant/proof; and colors stable and stain resistant before being delivered to stores. Home managers/engineers (AKA homemakers) would start the washing process on monday and finish the load on Saturday until the tub - wringer machines were introduced. Most people owned two sets of clothes and the freshest washed would be worn to Sunday Church/Temple/Synagog on the religions day of observation. If people were lucky or more well to do, they might have had Sunday clothes to wear When I was a kid in the "late" 1960's my Grandmother owned one of those tub -wringer washers. The last time she used it she was babysitting me and the thing started shaking so violently that Grandma grabbed me screaming. She ran carrying me into the kitchen slamming the door behind us. My mom had arrived just about that time to pick me up after work; heard the commotion and ran into the house to find the washing machine tub wringer dancing around the room until it finally unplugged itself and stopped. She recalls the room being covered in soap bubbles and dirty laundry. Mom called Aunt Fannie and Aunt Eleanor and they came over to help clean up the mess, help with the laundry and dinner. She had a brand new washing machine the next day. My mom had to teach her how to use it. It wasn't plumbed for some time so they had to run a garden hose from outside of the house and had a drain put through the floor which ran out onto the back garden which was mostly dandelions and wild garlic.

[@ronistitch6510]

I always notiss your coments on most of her videos and always stop to read them This one however was beautifull thank you for sharing a memory of a time gon by i genuinly smilled wile reading it have a lovely week

[@hly1226]

This story is kinda...adorable. :) Though it probably wasn't pleasent for your grandmother and yourself when it happened or your mom and aunts when they were cleaning...

[@sylvievicenza179]

Thank you so much for sharing this story. I love learning from others.

[@thetroublewithtrebles1362]

Sharing your memory about your grandmother's washing machine brought a memory bubble to the surface. When I was a kid, my mother got one of those wringer washing machines. I never could figure out why she didn't get a modern one (it was probably 1961 or 1962). It was such an ugly thing (like a tall white tube, with the wringer suspended above the round tub opening), and she had to work so hard, it was almost not worth having, as far as I was concerned. I don't recall it being around for very long…I think the wringer mechanism might have broken, but it's so long ago that I'm not sure.

[@bernadetteaislin9848]

It was great to find a real story. Thanks for sharing!!

[@richardsteele6469]

Angela Clayton - I hope you don't mind me putting up my old family memories in your comments; it's just that some of your videos bring back specific memories from my childhood. Some of the clothing you create remind me of photos of people in the houses of my grandparents and great aunt's and uncles homes and old family photo albums.

[@enchantrezz642]

Richard Steele I truly enjoy reading your comments. They are a fantastic addition to the feeling created by watching the videos! Reading your memories fosters discussion and imagination. :)

[@sgussy]

How lovely

[@donnie9010]

Have you ever thought of scanning in all these patterns to preserve them and have others try to follow them?

[@mariagmartinho]

OMG my butt 😆 That's a great idea! 😆 Please, Angela!

[@rmorine6394]

Two minutes of admiring how beautifully the hat frames your face. Then at 2:05 you show the pattern up close and I'm like, that even looks like you!😊

[@saskia105]

I really like the color choices! White and purple together make a really soft feminine look and suits the shape of the blouse.

[@raeafoley6131]

The pastel lilac and pastel blues were suffragette colours!😁

[@Ariviya]

I know this sounds really silly but I love hearing you read the instructions because I can't turn heads or tails out of them but when you explain it after I'm like, oh yeah, that makes sense!!

[@Torirattle]

You would have been sewing this style for a while had you lived in the time, and so probably would have instinctively known how things went together and not needed instruction. I think you did an astounding job, the contrast is lovely.

[@SewTexas]

Thank you, definitely I would like to see more patterns 1900's. Personally I have many old patterns, "untouched" with no markings and I have been anxious to try them, you motivate me.

[@maureencullen1008]

When using vintage patterns I always transfer to pattern paper/greaseproof paper so I don't damage the original.I then put the new pieces in a large envelope with a drawing of the pattern on the front and written instructions to put inside(if you have a photocopier then use that).i can then keep the vintage pattern in its original state and without pin marks. I think the blouse looks lovely and I love that you point out potential pitfalls.

[@sebastainmikkelson8766]

The "stays" were the middle part of a feather sewn into cloth about 6 or 7 inches in length. They were then sew vertically around the waist, to hold the garment from drooping in unwanted areas

[@mnels5214]

So interesting! When she mentioned that, I wondered what they could mean...

[@davidbjas32]

I figured it was some sort of boning, considering "stays" were utilized in corsets.

[@juno5756]

Huh! I looked up stays in my reference book, and it told me stays are a strong ribbon or lining piece used to keep gathers/pleats etc in place, so I wonder if the meaning of "stays" as a sewing technique perhaps changed over time? The use of the feather is such a cool idea!

[@frednycortes5102]

Stays could also be baleen (whalebone) strips or metal.

[@tigs7420]

@@juno5756 They could have changed of course by now, but the historical meaning is asseveral people have said: it was a form of boning, which depending on use and era, could be feather quills, baleen or steel. Stays were used for corsets, but also in various sorts of bodices and blouses, for the appropriate shape.

[@Hide_and_silk]

Just loving your series. My great grandmother was a tailoress - I'm guessing she apprenticed from ~1890 so it's wonderful to watch you making garments that she would have been totally familiar with x

[@sunnyruth8575]

Angela i learn well from you hope you keep going. I've been sewing most of my life. So I catch on quickly. You taught me 4 incredible things in one setting. You sew like my mother and sister. Like nobody else's business keep on stitching

[@Dawn-fz5cu]

This blouse had so many complex details hidden in the relaxed sillouette. You did an amazing job considering the limited instructions. Your humor is delightful. Thank you for sharing!

[@paisley293]

Angela: you look so beautiful in this outfit. I can't see any fault with the blouse, and the hat is absolutely splendid!

[@wowzieee]

You know what's fun? Is learning from the past. What a great idea. As in making a sauce in the kitchen, sewing has so many perspectives on how it can get done, all with pretty much the same result. I'm going to spend a lazy Sunday and watch all of your uploads, as I'm sure the is much for me to learn from your experience. Thanks for sharing this. BTS, I love the hat.

[@reginaromsey]

I love your emphasis on ironing and careful comments and instructions.

[@mariansmith7694]

It is lovely... Yes, make more or fix this one. I have seen so many family photos from thi s era where women wore a similar outfit.

[@Ladybug-uf7uh]

Well, you had a real problem with an unprinted pattern and weird instructions. My mother refused to use unprinted patterns in the 1950's and now I see why. BUT! I loved how it turned out and remember the joy of producing something unique and special. Thank you for sharing your journey and posting the video.

[@Tigerroux]

You did an excellent job figuring this primitive pattern out. I had the experience sewing 1920s child’s pattern, and it was confusing like you said - a lot of guesswork. The instructions were vague back then, but most women who sewed back then knew exactly what to do. My grandmother who lived during that time could look at a style from a magazine and sew up the outfit without much guessing. My mother said she could make a lot of clothes that way. . I’m glad to see a beautiful young lady such as you, so talented with her interest in sewing and fashion! Good job!

[@CulinaryGuide]

Wow! That blouse was super complicated. Beautiful result. I would love to see a 2nd video with the improvements/ changes if you try this pattern again.

[@Aplusinskal]

Wow, I'm still so impressed as these types of blouses are among my favorites of all time! I'd love to see you make a new blouse taking what you learnt from this project and adding your insights to what should have been done =) Also, if you'd ever perfect this pattern, I'd pay you for a copy! LOVED IT!

[@dnvnroxurwrld99]

The white fabric you used for the yolk is BEAUTIFUL. Simple but the little details on it are wow so pretty .

[@staceyk3908]

Have you ever thought of adapting all these patterns with your changes in a book in several sizes. I'm quite a bit larger (2x) but I would love to learn how to make these! It would be cool to be able to make clothes from all different time periods and/or adding these elements to modern clothing.

[@kim09031957]

You did a beautiful job Angela. We are always harder on ourselves and see the flaws when we sew. You are so clever.

[@maegenfoster]

A couple people have already mentioned using a safely pin to thread your ribbon, but I wanted to say my favorite little sewing tool for that is a bodkin. Not terribly expensive, and so amazing for threading through casings-- elastics especially. This is such a fun series and I can't wait to see more!

[@functionoflightone]

You did a great job and I'm amazed at your tenacity in the face of incomplete direction.

[@lavenderxbrunette]

That is such a genius idea to use a foam board and push pins to cut out the fabric! So happy I found your channel!!

[@LunaReina14]

it's very relaxing to watch you sewing, but then i remember the noise you showed your machine makes xD thank goodness for editing magic

[@louiselill1528]

With all the missing information on this pattern etc I still love the blouse . The fabric choices and colours are beautiful I had forgotten how much I like lilac even the name is pretty

[@JosieAreSee]

I was able to buy your pattern. I was so excited to see they have it in plus sizes. I like this series. I cant wait to see what you sew fpr the 1920s

[@JNewman1567]

Meep Sings I bought it as well and was also so excited it came in plus size 😁😁😁 I can’t wait to do it

[@JosieAreSee]

Jacqueline Newman I've never taken on such a big project so I'm a bit scared but totally excited.

[@ronistitch6510]

I saw it wile shopping today its taken ages for it to be in my locall shop in the south of england

[@JosieAreSee]

Roni stitch oh!! I'm glad it got to you!!

[@ronistitch6510]

Meep Sings i wasnt planning on it i went in to get a mens pattern i hate making mens clothes but have been guilted into it by the boyfriend so needed a pattern to work with insted of just drafting my own like normall and i was there i couldnt leave it behind i needed it

[@gwenstephan67]

It might have been frustrating but the blouse looks beautiful in the end!

[@PreciousMe]

Love this series. Think you are doing an awesome job. Those pattern instructions are geared toward women that were raised sewing (by hand) their own clothing and they knew most of the process. You are doing a fantastic. Big Hugs

[@athia37]

OMG, you have done such a marvelous job ! Considering the lack of instructions you did it Fantastic justice, and you look picture perfect !

[@CutePokapipi]

OMG aren't you so pretty and soooooo talented at the same time???????? Wowwwwwwww

[@GingerL012]

The blouse look lovely, especially when paired with the skirt and hat! To someone who really doesn't know any better, it looks great, and I love seeing the end results of the early 20th century patterns that you use! It's really cool that you were able to find a pattern that old in the first place! Thanks for making these, by the way. I always look forward to seeing your videos, and I hope that this series goes as successfully as you need it to!

[@sandycencirulo]

so glad to see that I am not the only one who irons her patterns before storing them.

[@zenamorgan1754]

I think you’re absolutely amazing for having the patience and the ability to do this, I would’ve been totally intimidated and terrified. Excellent job!!!

[@evarellis]

I learned to guide elastic or ribbon through a channel by fastening a safety pin to the front of the elastic or ribbon. Love your videos! You're amazing.

[@CarameliaM]

I'm completely amazed by the cutting technique! Why did I never think of using styrofoam as a base and really pinning the pattern + fabric down? This is genius! Also your sewing is stellar and I really enjoy watching your videos!

[@vickinoeske1711]

Gosh, the pattern sounds complicated & without you explaining, I don't think I would of made heads or tails of it. I love your fabric choice & the addition of the bow. Thanks for all of your hard work, you are a gem. P.S. The hat is fabulous.

[@lydiaderhake2532]

Wow, what an amazing package opening. Thank you for sharing! Although your frustrations are justified, the results are really beautiful. Love to know how much you learned from it in the end. Thank you!

[@deborahlyne5636]

As someone from a long line of sewers my hat is off to you. I fully admit I would never try an antique pattern. Vintage 1980s yes, but I was sewing in the 1980s. You asked peoples opinion on redoing the blouse. So instead of answering about what I think you should do, maybe I can ask some questions which will help you answer your own question: 1) do you love the design or details, 2) can you see yourself wearing it to work or out? 3) is this such a challenge that you cannot resist(this blouse is not beating me)4) can you learn another technique to be used in latter patterns 5) once you get done with the sewing through the centuries challenge you are going to quit and just sew regular clothes( if this is it, you don't need these techniques to sew say a tee shirt). Maybe thinking of these questions can help you decide where to put your energy. I am attending a sewing guild meeting this Thursday, I wonder if there are other people who would be interest in sewing vintage patterns.

[@hayleyrose97]

I absolutely love this series!! So excited for the 30s,40s, 50s and 60s!!

[@tburbank1]

Just found this channel and now I am addicted!!!!! Angela is amazing !

[@CrowShadow]

My hat is off to the challenge of these patterns; definitely making for a learning experience ... Your patience and persistence are admirable ... looking forward to your challenge of the next 9 decades ... The blouse is a lovely style and I feel you should definitely remake it with all your suggested changes/enhancements.

[@KittenStitcher]

I think your blouse turned out really lovely, and the whole outfit is utterly charming. Fun to see your process, even though it had its frustrations. Good work!!! - T

[@mandyr]

This series is so fascinating. It makes me wonder what the original designers/producers of the pattern would think; the pattern only being opened after 100+ years and used for someone to create a video of the assembly for those who have no need of handmade clothes, nor the ability to make it themselves (me). Great job! Keep up the great work, Angela. It's inspiring me to pull out the dinosaur of a machine my mother gave me for my wedding and sew something myself (perhaps a handkerchief? I think I could manage that!). :)

[@Elemiriel]

Just read a few of the comments here and really these videos mean a lot to a lot of people! Very well done, and the little things that go wrong or unexpected simply add to the charm because you handle it admirably :)

[@picsonly]

This video is great. You talking through your process including errors and opinions and learning etc. is very enlightening. You are awesome.

[@jolynnwhite7946]

Of course your work is impeccable , I think this style would be an excellent choice for your pattern line in Mccalls patterns . Your conquering the pattern work would ensure a vintage ,yet modern pattern

[@illfayted]

This isn't sewing related, but I really appreciate that you asked people to subscribe at the end of the video instead of the beginning. That always annoys me a little in other people's videos, even though it's common now. It feels pushy, like why would I want to subscribe if I'm a new viewer and I know nothing about your content yet? I've only been watching for 5 seconds, let me finish one video before I decide if I want to see them all.

[@hallieewanus9165]

Collars were often just basted in place as they were removed to wash separately as were the cuffs! When all laundry was done. By hand things were aired and worn more than once . Also a blouse might have more than one collar in different colors to make it look different! Most people had much smaller wardrobes than we do!

[@angelar.williams951]

You are so talented, totally love this series that you are doing!

[@Sparky-dr1ii]

I like the style of it. I believe that it deserves another shot. The fabric looks good for warm weather. Could you consider making one for cooler weather.

[@rexgrl3]

I learned to sew garments from my mom in the 70s. Those patterns (without) instructions would be a nightmare for me. I truly respect your talent and knowledge!

[@SparklyRazor]

I loved your jokes in the video! I like how you show your personality so it doesn't look like you are "just this person who sews amazing dresses"

[@kitkoppelia5377]

I really like the fabric you picked. The lav looks great with your hair. ♡

[@maryharvey724]

Very interesting to hear you describe how you had to interpret instructions. The film A Room With a View has a gorgeous green 1910 blouse on Maggie Smith. I loved the shirting with the ribbon. Nice effect.

[@maryharvey724]

Shirring rather.

[@teresas.3979]

I commend for even attempting this pattern and that of the skirt. Not sure I would have myself, even if I often sew without one. The way the ensemble turned out, I think was very period, faults and all. Just remember that not everyone can sew who thinks they can or are very good at it. It's all perspective. I have a vague recollection of my great grandmother complaining about pattern instructions and how much they have improved.

[@annawessman4029]

Truly enjoy these videos! Thank you Angela for making them!

[@NuclearButtonz]

love your styrofoam idea for cutting out the fabric.

[@aussiejubes]

I can't sew & know nothing about sewing & can't understand most of what you're saying AT ALL. I still really enjoyed watching this 😂

[@jessicargruendler]

The blouse looks pretty good. I agree with the ribbon gathering in the back; it is a bit high. But the outfit still turned out great.

[@giaalvarado2063]

Awesome video. Sorry this pattern was a little hit and miss. But you still have it as a souvenir.

[@Bbybg]

Some of the problems you faced might be why it was still “patent pending”. Also seems like they were trying to appeal to a certain audience with the no lining needed thing but you said a couple times it could have benefited from lining. Even if t was super annoying I think it came out great! Always thanks for sharing ☺️

[@14eilonwy]

I studied this period extensively in grad school - the reason no linings was needed was that several foundation garments would have been worn - a chemise or chemisette, stays (ie. a corset), and perhaps even a corset cover.

[@mnels5214]

This series is absolutely fascinating! It seems like you are learning a ton, and it's great to watch.

[@robyn3349]

A very attractive blouse despite of the learning curve. I would love to see a take two with this pattern!

[@BelleFlower15]

You look drop-dead gorgeous in this outfit!! Amazing!

[@dorisramos9134]

I love that blouse so much. Is so pretty.

[@mrtwister1775]

You always look so elegant. Thanks for making these videos. I love the old style. :)

[@adiloya9268]

I LOVE this shirt so much! I don't know about historical accuracy, I was just watching the entire video thinking - I need to get me one too... 😊 I love the colour choices you made and the black buttons add so much to it

[@emoooooly7350]

That fabric is so so gorgeous! Also really love that you paired it with the texured cotton. It really adds an elegant detail.

[@Marialla.]

I deeply love the hat! I want to wear that myself.

[@nicevers]

Marialla We need to bring such hats back into style.

[@ryanmartinage]

You should go to the Kentucky Derby. I've seen some uh interesting hats.

[@colombepetite]

This still turned out beautifully. I love these videos your doing. Great job explaining all the pros and cons!

[@sophuzzy]

My Jr. High home ec teacher would have driven you nuts. I had been sewing my own clothes since 5th grade, but had to follow her instructions. We couldn't pin until she had checked the lay out. Then we had to wait to cut until she had checked that we had pinned correctly and were on the proper grain and fold if indicated. She had to check every step. We had to baste! It had never taken me two weeks to make an A-line skirt before, and hasn't since! I did buy two books from Amazon that you mentioned in previous videos. Thank you for those references.

[@ronistitch6510]

b travis i rember driving my sewing tec teacher crazy in school i already knew what i was doing and she didnt belive me i rember when it was my turn on the masheen wipping out all the basting stitches and pins starting with the zip on the stupid pencill case because in my eyes it was the right odder i had the best one in the class but she was mad about being outdon by an 11 year old girl

[@LauraDeLoessian]

I enjoy this series sooo much. Really a wonderful idea.

[@belindacoba5158]

Best present for Angela is a time machine so she can travel trough out the decades and she can learn on first hand how this garments were made

[@Belialith]

Nice project. Thanks for sharing. I like the hat you have on. You look straight from the turn of the century.

[@susanplunkett5779]

Absolutely stunning. Bravo! I just found your channel today. Your hat is lovely and really does finnish the outfit.

[@estherp3402]

You make fantastic videos. It might be a good idea to either take a speech class or a voice coach. You tend to elongate the last syllable which makes you sound like a flight attendant with a never ending announcement. Please don’t get discouraged because your videos are very inspiring!

[@lorihassett3537]

Gorgeous!!!! You are very talented!

[@happyneek4699]

I'm loving this series!

[@joshuarahn9139]

Stays are very similar to boning. :) They are extra support pieces meant to help the clothing piece 'stay' in place.

[@marilyngandhi4213]

Those terms have changed their definitions in the past century - language changes are very common over time, I admire your bravery with this project

[@kathyarmstrong5549]

honestly I don't notice the mistakes. I think they look great! you wear it well

[@brendafoley6995]

Omgosh. This was awesome. . what a find. .YES. . more please!!!!

[@saraasarah886]

Vous une vrai artiste la tenue est sublime merci pour le partage

[@wanderingchook1193]

Your work is so inspiring. thank you !

[@sutownsend-kasmiskie3091]

Beautiful! My grandma was married in 1908 and made me wonder if she sewed her clothes.

[@i.g.6733]

Those black scissors look nice and heavy duty!🥌✂️✂️

[@jomercer21113]

I think the collar and the asymmetrical cuffs are supposed to be detachable, so that's why there aren't any notches. A lovely outfit!

[@14eilonwy]

I can answer your "stays" question - the word "stays" in the instructions refers to boning - a single stay is the "bone" itself, "stays" often refers to an entire corset. In this case they most likely intend you to attach small short metal spiral bones, between 2 to 4 inches long at the waistline of the shirtwaist. Shirtwaist designs were intended mainly for working women, who often wore a very light corset. Shirtwaists could be worn with a wide boned belt, or cincher, over both blouse and skirt. Or, if the waist had some stays built into it, you might just wear a skirt with it, with no need of a cincher to create the look. Also, the stays might help keep the waist from riding up.

[@matildas3177]

That's such a pretty pattern! I'm surprised you dared to use the original pattern pieces, I would have been too scared of accidentally cutting into it or ripping it with the pins. Thought I always transfer whatever new (or new to me) pattern I'm using to new paper just to spare the original, both because I'm a history buff and because it was diligently drilled into my head my entire childhood that that was the only way to do it.

[@melissafrye2466]

Matilda S yes i trace all my patterns onto clear plastic sheeting (used on the floor when painting), 3 millimeters thick, with a Sharpie to spare the original pattern tissue. I really enjoyed the video, Angela! Thanks ✨

[@ronistitch6510]

Melissa Clorinda thats sounds like a genuiss way to coppy them i cant belive i havent herd it befor thank you xx

[@demariejones3438]

My grandmother when she was first teaching me to sew tried to get me to trace patterns onto a different paper and use that copy to cut for my fabric. Of course I was young and I failed to learn at that point. Speed along 20 years and I’ve learned now.. saves me money and my patterns since I have 2 daughters and all three of us are different sizes..

[@veemercer1698]

Angela, have you thought about tracing original pattern on paper and using the copy to cut notches, etc. To preserve the original? Also, you are experienced and able to make notches on the copy to ensure you get the result you want. Plotting paper is excellent for this, available at large office supplies stores. Thanks for your videos.

[@terrijuanette486]

I think you did an amazing job! Personally, I'd just reset the sleeves and redo the hem. It's too pretty to just let it be. I'm also wondering if - in order to add 'bulk' without lining - if they added partial lining pieces. You know, the bits of stiffer fabric added to the shoulders, etc, to make them stand up (and help keep them from sticking to the wearer in hot/humid weather) without actually using lining which would make the piece hotter to wear. Do you think that could be an 'understood' portion of the pattern as in if it's 'unlined' the woman knows to make shortened pieces that are not true lining? I've no idea, of course. I'm just wondering.

[@poormanssewing4200]

I think you did a beautiful job I would not have known where to even start thank you so much

[@sinswept]

Off centre sleeves or not - that looked stunning!

[@greenleavesofsummer9673]

Love seeing these patterns; I want to make a few.

[@nataraja87]

Doing it again is ALWAYS a good idea. You could have done a muslin/toile first, which saves a lot of headache and frustration when doing entirely new patterns. Thanks for sharing :)

[@evonaagrochowski8006]

I absolutely, love your hat,..!