How to mix vintage patterns and modern fabrics

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Maple And Oak Designs

How to mix vintage patterns and modern fabrics

Making vintage patterns modern again - Maple And Oak Designs

Make vintage patterns modern again – here’s how to create this cheerfully unique rockabilly look:

For quite some time now, I’ve been a huge fan of Tula Pink‘s modern fabric designs. They’re so cheerful, happy and cute. I feel like she designs them just for me. My absolutely favourite of her current collection “Chipper” the sorbet-coloured “Fox Nap“.

When I recently ordered a couple of metres, I knew I had to sew something for myself immediately. Usually, I sew with vintage fabrics because they’re so inspiring and unique. Even though this time I had my hands on this super modern fabric, it needed a vintage twist. What to do, what to do?

Then I remembered Gertie Hirsch’s book “Gertie’s New Book For Better Sewing“. I had bought the book in Germany 1.5 years ago and totally forgotten about it. She explains how to use a vintage pattern and make it work today. I chose the “Sweetheart Dress” for my foxy fabric and combined it with a pink broadcloth.

How to make vintage patterns modern again:

First, I made a muslin with some old fabric and that was a good idea. Her explanations are fantastic and it’s easy to follow but something was wrong with the pattern. I ended up adjusting the body of the dress so it’s more like a European size 34 in the top and a size 40 in the waist and still had to take in the top a bit. Normally I’m a size 40. (Gertie, if you read this – what the heck did I do wrong?) I also decided against lining the skirt as it felt pretty full already and I didn’t want it to be too heavy for a light sun dress.

I used a reclaimed zip and decided against the hidden zip, simply because I was running out of time & I really wanted to take the dress with me on my trip to Europe. I was wearing the dress when le Monsieur and I were shopping in Hamburg. We came across this bridge across the train tracks, it was sunny and we used the chance for an impromptu photo session. After all, I must say, I’m quite happy with the vintage patterns modern result! How do you like it?

Making vintage patterns modern again - Tula Pink and Gertie Hirsch - Maple And Oak Designs

With love from the Maple And Oak Diaries,

❤ Leonie❤

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