Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Book Review A History of the Paper Pattern Industry

A Book Review: A History of the Paper Pattern Industry
by Joy Spanabel Emery


    Joy Spanabel Emery’s new book; AHistory of the Paper Pattern Industry,The home dressmaking revolution is a must-have resource for anyone interested in the history of not only sewing patterns but fashion as well. The book is organized chronologically beginning with the oldest surviving book on tailoring published in Spain in 1580, and ending with the modern patterns up to the year 2010. With 200 well placed illustrations (125 color, 75 black and white), the book progresses smoothly through the centuries and decades. 





Each chapter covers a period in history and the events that influenced the styles produced by the pattern companies. The section that was the most interesting to me covered the restrictions on fabric usage during the war effort of the 1940’s.  


   I found the book to be very interesting and enjoyable.  As a bonus, she has included 9 sewing patterns with instructions that can be scaled for use. Remember that the instructions are minimal for older patterns and these are not the exception! 

8 comments:

  1. This looks so interesting! I'm going to look for it! Thank you for sharing this book review.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Excellent Mary Beth and thanks for providing an link to purchase the book. Kudos to Joy!

    ReplyDelete
  3. I haven't had a chance to get through it completely, but the sections I have read, I really enjoyed. Hopefully this weekend I'll get front to back. A great resource and just filled with knowledge for pattern lovers, the home and professional seamstress and clothing, sewing and fashion enthusiast.

    ReplyDelete
  4. I am adding this book to my reading list.

    Thanks Mary Beth for a great review

    ReplyDelete
  5. This book sounds like a must have!

    ReplyDelete
  6. I would love to have that book and will save for it! RosesPatternTreasury

    ReplyDelete
  7. This was well written and I will be getting me a copy of this book, Thanks!

    ReplyDelete