Dakota Prairie Treasures Draft Pattern Republications are produced from authentic Antebellum, Civil War & Victorian Era Draft Patterns (DPs). DPs (also called scale or tailor’s patterns) originally were enlarged on paper by the user (or her Manteau-maker) & then adjusted as needed to custom fit the wearer. The bust norm for an “average-sized woman” then (at 5’4”) was 34½”. Much tailoring was done then to fit an individual as is now when making good-fitting clothing. So, this isn’t the typical tissue paper pattern we’re familiar with from today's stores but a historic tailor’s DP.
However, we include a 7-page guide, compiled from 1857, 1860 & 1876 sources, instructing women on enlarging DPs to custom fit the wearer.
Many seamstresses who have purchased our Authentic Draft Patterns state high satisfaction with our DPs & we surmise they’re very practiced with sewing and enlarging DPs & tailored sewing.
We've been advised by one kind woman that when these Authentic Victorian Draft Patterns are drafted (enlarged) to a standard, modern size 12 they’re most easily altered to other sizes both smaller or larger.
Another seamstress reported, “Federal Express has equipment to enlarge patterns.”
Much to my pleasure I have called Federal Express and verified this information to be absolutely true. Plus the cost is quite reasonable.
If you are up to the challenge of creating unique and seldom seen Historical Reenactment garb for your event experiences Dakota Prairie Treasures Authentic Antebellum, Civil War and Victorian Era Draft Patterns are privately produced for your pleasure & a rare find.
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