The Fashion Archaeologist
"History House" Authentic historical sewing patterns
Tutorials, blog, & costume research
Tutorials, blog, & costume research
Enter the World of Historical Fashion!
Hello, and welcome!
My name is Patricia Preston. I am the real person behind my alter-ego "The Fashion Archaeologist", and the creator and owner of HISTORY HOUSE Antique Sewing Patterns. I believe in the beauty of historical authenticity (as far as reasonably achievable), and that creating replica historical garments is both an adventure and a learning experience. Stepping into the world of skilled makers of the past and gaining a deep understanding of their processes is one of the biggest rewards of what I do. My interests are primarily in early 20th century, 18th century, and mid- to late 19th century eras.
My background is diverse. My original academic training was as a linguist and historian, but I've also had years of fine arts studies, worked as a professional translator and writer/researcher in various fields, was involved in amateur live theatre and theatrical costuming, studied couture sewing, pattern drafting and costume history, worked and lectured for museums, and -- through it all -- have always sewn. In fact, I can't remember a time when I haven't had some sort of sewing or design project in progress!
More content will continue to be added to this site as time goes on, so please bookmark and check back often! In the meantime, take a peek at my Blog for all kinds of costume-related material (see link at the top of this page). For in-depth topics on costume history, see my "Research & Essays" page. And thank you for stopping by!
So, what does a 'Fashion Archaeologist' do?
My main focus, since 2007, has been in transforming authentic historical sewing patterns, mostly from original French sources, into sewing patterns that are in an accessible form for modern users. I felt that my personal skills were uniquely suited to this work. My patterns have a great deal of "value-added" put into them, from re-drafting and correcting the original, complex patterns, to writing step-by-step instructions in English, then grading, testing and actually creating a sample garment. To see what's involved in the development of my patterns, click on the "About" heading above.
What began in 2007 with a few Edwardian lingerie patterns has now grown into a catalogue of designs of various types, with plans for many more, including garments from the 18th and 19th centuries.
I also occasionally collaborate with clients if I'm planning a sample garment for an upcoming sewing pattern. The sample will be made to the client's personal measurements, at a lower cost than custom dressmaking because constructing an actual garment is a regular part of my development process for the multi-sized patterns. I can usually offer some choice of fabric and colour, depending on the design that I'm developing. Be sure to follow my Facebook page (click on the "Contact" page here) to catch announcements for these collaborations. I also take custom orders from time to time, based on an hourly rate plus materials and as my schedule permits. Please contact me if you're looking to have an extraordinary replica historical garment made to measure!
I invite you to take a look through my Blog on this site, as well as under the "Research" heading, where you'll find items on a range of historical fashion topics.
If you have a local group or museum that would be interested in having me present one of my talks on historical fashion and culture, please get in touch with me by email (see "Contact" page).
Like many of you, I am deeply interested in the whole subject of historical dress. I particularly love the process of bringing the beautiful garments of the past back "to life" in the present, and enjoy researching, writing and speaking about topics of interest in the field of fashion history. So please join me, and read on!
What began in 2007 with a few Edwardian lingerie patterns has now grown into a catalogue of designs of various types, with plans for many more, including garments from the 18th and 19th centuries.
I also occasionally collaborate with clients if I'm planning a sample garment for an upcoming sewing pattern. The sample will be made to the client's personal measurements, at a lower cost than custom dressmaking because constructing an actual garment is a regular part of my development process for the multi-sized patterns. I can usually offer some choice of fabric and colour, depending on the design that I'm developing. Be sure to follow my Facebook page (click on the "Contact" page here) to catch announcements for these collaborations. I also take custom orders from time to time, based on an hourly rate plus materials and as my schedule permits. Please contact me if you're looking to have an extraordinary replica historical garment made to measure!
I invite you to take a look through my Blog on this site, as well as under the "Research" heading, where you'll find items on a range of historical fashion topics.
If you have a local group or museum that would be interested in having me present one of my talks on historical fashion and culture, please get in touch with me by email (see "Contact" page).
Like many of you, I am deeply interested in the whole subject of historical dress. I particularly love the process of bringing the beautiful garments of the past back "to life" in the present, and enjoy researching, writing and speaking about topics of interest in the field of fashion history. So please join me, and read on!
"Edwardian Rose" is now "HISTORY HOUSE"
For many years, my line of sewing patterns was strictly Edwardian, i.e. garments from about 1900 through 1912, sold under the name "Edwardian Rose". I still have many Edwardian fashions to develop into patterns, but I'll be widening my focus to include Victorian and 18th century items. So, a new name was needed to reflect this broader area of interest. Accordingly, all my published sewing patterns will now go by the name "History House" antique patterns. This transition will take place over several months until all the older designs have been converted to the new name. New pattern designs available from 2019 onward will all have the History House brand.
NEW! History House "Master Class" Patterns - coming soon.
Over the years I've focused on providing my customers with historical sewing patterns that are fully adapted for today's use, with step-by-step sewing instructions and sized to at least 3 modern sizes (for a peek into how much work goes into each pattern, and why they stand out from other historical sewing patterns, see my "About" page). I've done this while keeping my patterns authentic in cut and design, developed directly from antique sources.
However I've realized that there is a sector of historical sewing enthusiasts who are willing and able to work out the size grading and construction of antique patterns on their own. I've also recognized that it's impossible for me to develop all the beautiful designs I'd love to be able to make available if I continued to produce each one with size grading and my detailed, step-by-step sewing instructions.
The solution was to offer a secondary line of patterns in a different format, taken directly from antique sources, but without multiple size grading or extensive instructions. These are the "MASTER CLASS" patterns, meant for self-directed sewists. Still, these aren't merely "raw" patterns, just traced off the old pattern sheets (as a number of antique pattern sellers have been doing) which can be confusing and frustrating for even an experienced modern sewist to make proper use of. Offering sewing patterns in this slightly pared-down format will permit me to give my customers access to a far wider range of historical garments.
But you won't be left entirely on your own to puzzle out the mysteries of patterns published more than 100 years ago.
What's different in my 'Master Class' patterns?
You'll have the benefit of my expert advice and input on antique construction from my many years of working with antique French patterns.
Each pattern will include:
1) My guidelines on historical fit and finish;
2) General notes on construction (but not step-by-step sewing instructions);
3) My translation and explanation of any existing antique text (not a Google gobbledygook translation!);
4) In addition, unlike many raw patterns on the market which may be missing pieces or sections because the maker is either unable to read the original French instructions or because they don't have the antique magazine issues that contain those pieces, every "Master Class" pattern will have all the pieces required to complete the garment, including any foundation pieces that would have been understood by dressmakers of the time to be needed.
The result -- a greater variety of antique designs for costume enthusiasts to enjoy!
Watch for the blue 'Master Class Pattern' logo on new patterns in the History House line in the coming year! Above is a sample of one upcoming Master Class pattern to look for.
However I've realized that there is a sector of historical sewing enthusiasts who are willing and able to work out the size grading and construction of antique patterns on their own. I've also recognized that it's impossible for me to develop all the beautiful designs I'd love to be able to make available if I continued to produce each one with size grading and my detailed, step-by-step sewing instructions.
The solution was to offer a secondary line of patterns in a different format, taken directly from antique sources, but without multiple size grading or extensive instructions. These are the "MASTER CLASS" patterns, meant for self-directed sewists. Still, these aren't merely "raw" patterns, just traced off the old pattern sheets (as a number of antique pattern sellers have been doing) which can be confusing and frustrating for even an experienced modern sewist to make proper use of. Offering sewing patterns in this slightly pared-down format will permit me to give my customers access to a far wider range of historical garments.
But you won't be left entirely on your own to puzzle out the mysteries of patterns published more than 100 years ago.
What's different in my 'Master Class' patterns?
You'll have the benefit of my expert advice and input on antique construction from my many years of working with antique French patterns.
Each pattern will include:
1) My guidelines on historical fit and finish;
2) General notes on construction (but not step-by-step sewing instructions);
3) My translation and explanation of any existing antique text (not a Google gobbledygook translation!);
4) In addition, unlike many raw patterns on the market which may be missing pieces or sections because the maker is either unable to read the original French instructions or because they don't have the antique magazine issues that contain those pieces, every "Master Class" pattern will have all the pieces required to complete the garment, including any foundation pieces that would have been understood by dressmakers of the time to be needed.
The result -- a greater variety of antique designs for costume enthusiasts to enjoy!
Watch for the blue 'Master Class Pattern' logo on new patterns in the History House line in the coming year! Above is a sample of one upcoming Master Class pattern to look for.
Custom Pattern Requests
Do you have a particular garment or year that you'd like to sew, but can't find an appropriate pattern, or a pattern that's truly historically accurate? Get in touch with me and I may be able to custom-draft a pattern to your wishes as long as the garment fits within my general historical guidelines -- for example, no cosplay, fantasy, or Halloween items. I have a large library of original antique patterns to access for this purpose, from the 1860's through the 1920's.
A custom-request pattern will be published as a "Master Class" pattern (see above) and will be available to you to purchase, generally in PDF format, at a price in line with my other patterns. If the item is something that something I'd particularly like to size-grade, I may even add it to my regular pattern line. Otherwise, the pattern will be drafted in the original antique sizing, and any alteration or size-grading will be up to you.
This Custom Pattern Request service itself is free of charge, but please keep in mind that you'll need to allow a 4 to 6 month time frame from initial request to the date of publication of a pattern. This is because I normally have other items on my schedule or in progress at any given time which take precedence. If you're looking for a particular pattern, contact me via a personal message on Facebook, where I usually check in every day. Just click on the button below. Or email at thefashionarchaeologist@yahoo.com.
A custom-request pattern will be published as a "Master Class" pattern (see above) and will be available to you to purchase, generally in PDF format, at a price in line with my other patterns. If the item is something that something I'd particularly like to size-grade, I may even add it to my regular pattern line. Otherwise, the pattern will be drafted in the original antique sizing, and any alteration or size-grading will be up to you.
This Custom Pattern Request service itself is free of charge, but please keep in mind that you'll need to allow a 4 to 6 month time frame from initial request to the date of publication of a pattern. This is because I normally have other items on my schedule or in progress at any given time which take precedence. If you're looking for a particular pattern, contact me via a personal message on Facebook, where I usually check in every day. Just click on the button below. Or email at thefashionarchaeologist@yahoo.com.
Why PDF?
PDF sewing patterns are being offered by more and more pattern-makers, and for good reason: they have so many advantages over paper versions.
First and foremost: you get your pattern immediately upon purchase, and can start sewing within a very short time -- no waiting for a pattern to arrive in the mail. Secondly, no shipping costs are involved, an especially important consideration with the heavier paper patterns (with their enormous skirt pieces) usually offered by independent makers. Thirdly, PDFs can easily be printed on any home inkjet or laser printer, or taken to a local printing shop to print out on large 36" wide sheets. There are also online services now available for PDF printing (see below). Further, there is the convenience of storing your PDFs all in one place on a device, and printing out additional copies as required. With a PDF pattern, you can cut a garment in one size, then print it out again later in another size if necessary.
I offer PDF patterns for all these reasons, and because it allows such easy access to my entire catalogue for customers around the world. With shipping costs skyrocketing, and shipping delays becoming common, PDFs just make good sense. All History House PDF sewing patterns can be printed on regular letter-size (8-1/2" x 11") or A4 size paper, as well as on 36" (wide format) continuous paper.
History House PDF patterns are not particularly designed for printing on A0 size sheets, although some professional print shops might be able to custom-programme their equipment to print them on A0 sheets of paper -- please check with your print shop in advance.
Do you have PDF anxiety?
If you've never tried a PDF pattern before, I'd encourage you to give one a test drive! It's easier than you may think -- and a bit of fun too. To give you a start, try out one of the free PDF sewing patterns on this site, which I've developed specifically for the PDF-shy. Click on the button below, or on the "Free PDF Patterns" entry in the "Categories" list on the Blog page.
First and foremost: you get your pattern immediately upon purchase, and can start sewing within a very short time -- no waiting for a pattern to arrive in the mail. Secondly, no shipping costs are involved, an especially important consideration with the heavier paper patterns (with their enormous skirt pieces) usually offered by independent makers. Thirdly, PDFs can easily be printed on any home inkjet or laser printer, or taken to a local printing shop to print out on large 36" wide sheets. There are also online services now available for PDF printing (see below). Further, there is the convenience of storing your PDFs all in one place on a device, and printing out additional copies as required. With a PDF pattern, you can cut a garment in one size, then print it out again later in another size if necessary.
I offer PDF patterns for all these reasons, and because it allows such easy access to my entire catalogue for customers around the world. With shipping costs skyrocketing, and shipping delays becoming common, PDFs just make good sense. All History House PDF sewing patterns can be printed on regular letter-size (8-1/2" x 11") or A4 size paper, as well as on 36" (wide format) continuous paper.
History House PDF patterns are not particularly designed for printing on A0 size sheets, although some professional print shops might be able to custom-programme their equipment to print them on A0 sheets of paper -- please check with your print shop in advance.
Do you have PDF anxiety?
If you've never tried a PDF pattern before, I'd encourage you to give one a test drive! It's easier than you may think -- and a bit of fun too. To give you a start, try out one of the free PDF sewing patterns on this site, which I've developed specifically for the PDF-shy. Click on the button below, or on the "Free PDF Patterns" entry in the "Categories" list on the Blog page.
Also watch for an upcoming video tutorial in my Blog on printing and assembling History House PDF sewing patterns.
A recent alternative is now available that may help pattern buyers who want to try PDF: there is at least one company in the U.S. specializing in online printing of PDF patterns -- www.pdfplotting.com. You upload your PDF file(s) to their site, they print the pattern(s) in full size on large sheets, and ship the printouts to you by mail. I have used this company's services, so can personally recommend them, but it's worth checking their site for further information and prices. Other countries may have similar services, search online under "PDF digital pattern printing".
I've also been informed that some office supply outlets, like Kinko's and Staples, are now able to print wide-format (36") PDF patterns, and you may be able to find one near you.
Have further questions about PDFs, or about printing a 'History House' sewing pattern at home?
Click on the button below to take a look at my blog article, which I hope will answer all your questions. If done as described, home printing is easier and quicker than you might think!
Click on the button below to take a look at my blog article, which I hope will answer all your questions. If done as described, home printing is easier and quicker than you might think!
Tour Around My World!
I invite you to take a look at my work and my thoughts, under the 'About', 'Research' and 'Blog' links at the top of this page, and to visit my Etsy shop via the link below, where you can purchase all History House historical patterns. Also take a peek at my Photo Gallery, a collection of my replica costume creations over the years. I'm still rebuilding that Gallery from an older version, but I'm trying to add items as I have the time. For customers who have purchased a History House pattern, check out the resource under "Construction Help" keyed to a number of the patterns.
If you'd like to get in touch, see the 'Contact' page, or send me a direct message on Facebook -- I'd love to hear from you.
After you've browsed (and bookmarked!) this site, use the quick links below to tour around my other venues and other pages on the site. Enjoy your visit and thank you for stopping by!
Thank you for visiting!
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