We bought a job lot at auction recently. Initially, it was the tray of kitchen utensils that caught our eye…

… but, in amongst it all, was a large box of sewing paraphernalia…

… embroidery silks, cotton reels and dozens of vintage patterns.

They date from the 1930s all the way up to the 1980s.

There were lots of 1950s examples by Leach-Way and McCall’s including some fabulous ‘New Look’ ones.

There was this one for a bridesmaid’s dress if you’re into that complete DIY wedding!

and patterns for the boys!

These ones given away free with Woman’s Weekly are a couple of favourites – especially the asymmetric midi skirt and puff sleeved blouse.

Free patterns with your weekly reading was a common thing at that time…

…as these giveaways from Woman’s Own and News of the World show.

Doesn’t everything about this Butterick pattern for shirt dress and pants suit just sum up the 1970s?

It’s been a real pleasure sorting through this particular box.