Learning From the Past

I have a collection of patterns from the l940' and 1950's.  The details on the patterns of the l940's and 1950's are quite useful especially to new sewers.  These patterns were also printed in ONE size which is easier for a beginner to process.  As an educator I hear all the frustrations from beginner sewers. Many students can not interpret the visual graphics on the guide sheets due to a lack of labeling. Back in the 50's the guide sheets included arrows which helped a great deal.
Here is a pattern printed from 1953.  Note- the front facing and front bodice have a DOUBLE notch while the Back bodice and Back facing have a SINGLE notch.  Most patterns printed in the past few decades use the Double Notch to indicate the back of a sleeve.   All the pattern pieces are identified, and notches are numbered !  Now that's what I call user-friendly !  There are a few directions printed in the seam allowance area too !  Multi-sized patterns can be slightly confusing for beginner sewers. If history truly repeats itself I hope the pattern companies are listening!

This sleeve pattern from 1968 still uses numbers to help less experienced sewers with critical matching point. Also, they printed on the pattern information about the dot for matching the shoulder seam.  I sure wish pattern makers would go back to this system.  This is so user-friendly ! 

 (please do not cut out the notches- this may happen when you purchase vintage patterns from estate sales, etc.)

(click on the photo to enlarge for easier viewing)