Making a vintage bra pattern

I have often made reference to one of my favourite sewing books, the Odhams Encyclopaedia of Needlecraft which was published in 1954.  I think vintage sewing books offer information that is often these days, overlooked, ignored or covered up in favour of shortcuts, modern techniques or 'insider secrets'.

There are no secrets to good sewing - all the information is  'out there' somewhere.  The great couturiers of past years all learned at their mothers or grandmothers knees before fashion degrees and sewing schools ever existed.  The difference between them and  most of us, is that they are innovators.  A quote from the book "Waisted Efforts" by Robert Doyle explains: 

"Interestingly, as scholars research and analyze the techniques of master couturiers, it is often forgotten that the couturier is a master of sewing and cutting, that decisions are made depending on need, not formula.  Sewing after all, is simply a series of seams, some straight, some curved.  The crucial part is that the stitcher must become proficient at doing them."

Most practical sewing skills are available to learn in vintage sewing books and discussed in plain english - I've said it before and I'll say it again, reading a vintage sewing book is like sitting with your grandma and sewing together.

Back in January I posted some pages on how to make a bodice block.  Here is the next few pages - how to make a simple bra from the bodice block.  

Enjoy!

click to enlarge