Once upon a time, (this is no fairy tale) in a far away time of yesteryear, lived a busy single mother raising five children and working a full time job .

I am blessed, and one of those blessings came in the form a grandmother who baby-sat for me. This enabled my children to be with people who loved them instead of strangers. It was a blessing for me to because I didn’t have to worry about their care and safety. Thanks Nana, and I know you're still watching over us from above.

Growing up, my mother and grandmother always made my clothes. One year for Christmas, my grandmother ask what I wanted and I replied, “I want a real store bought dress.” She laughed and said, “OK honey, we’ll see what we can do.”

Christmas morning came and I rushed down stairs to open my packages. There, under the tree was a large and beautifully wrapped box with my name on it. I immediately started tearing the paper off throwing it in complete disorder. When I removed all the wrapping, I looked up at my grandma and she was expressionless, “open it,” she said, “Let’s see what's inside.”

I opened the box and WOW; I was stunned! There in front of me was the most beautiful dress I had ever seen. It had a princess styled waistline, emphasized by a thin belt, and an Asian neckline. The color was light gold and enhanced by a beautiful dark gold brocade pattern. She must have spent a fortune on that dress, and I held on to it for years.

Now, when I look back, I realize how much my mother and grandmother loved me. I also realize how every stitch they took on that old singer sewing machine was done with great love and tireless perfection.

Here are some old fashioned patterns for you to enjoy!

Special Collection Patterns                              Sewing Patterns for Dummies

1948 & 1952 Apron                                             Patterns of The Past

Historical Costume Collection                          Women’s Vintage Patterns