Design On Request - explained!

Update September 2025: Due to very high demand, we are fully booked with custom drafting requests and cannot take new orders for traced patterns until the start of 2026. 

These are original vintage patterns chosen by you.

When you see a design in the galleries that you would like made into a pattern, you can contact us. Each pattern is traced individually, it is not drawn in advance. The time this takes depends on the intricacy of the design and our current workload of previous orders. 

Importantly, we reply to discuss a suitable time frame and any specific details. Patterns are available in PDF-digital or printed paper formats.

Nearly all of these unique designs were originally published without instructions. While I provide all the original information that came with the pattern, we cannot provide detailed, step-by-step instructions. A good knowledge of sewing and garment construction is required. To help you with the relevant basic techniques, we can provide a link to our collection of sewing references and vintage sewing books in both German and English.

Why do we do 'Design On Request' ?

Firstly, we have a large collection, so it's hard to decide which design to work on. This process also helps us to identify the designs and themes that interest our customers. Secondly, we recognise that styling is a very personal thing, especially for vintage clothing enthusiasts. Some of you have told us that you want a design that no one else has, be it a glamorous gown, knickerbockers for the next Tweed Run, or perhaps a rare gem for a specific re-enactment role. 

How can patterns marked as 'Design On Request' be purchased?

Once the pattern is complete, we will notify you and then make it available to purchase online in our regular shop. Feedback suggests that our customers are pleased with this arrangement. We are a small group interested in providing vintage clothing enthusiasts with interesting patterns, rather than creating a huge pattern business.
Cataloguing patterns for posterity in my basement is fine, but it’s more enjoyable to bring these designs to life again!