• The History of Folkwear & The Folkwear Team
• Frequently Asked Questions & Sizing Chart
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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Folkwear patterns easy to sew?
Yes. The patterns range from very easy to advanced, with most falling into the easy-to-intermediate category. Nearly every pattern includes an easy-sew version. The authentic detailing and handwork of the more advanced versions are always optional.

How are Folkwear patterns different from others?
Our styles are truly timeless and represent the fashions of other times and costumes of other places. They are perfect for putting together a look that is as individual as your needs, from historical reenactment and theater costuming to dramatic wearable art and unique everyday wear. Each pattern embodies a tradition and tells a story. In many patterns, you will find fascinating historical lore as well as instructions for authentic handwork and embellishment.

What about the knitting and crochet instructions in some Folkwear patterns?
In several patterns, you will find instructions for a coordinating garment or accessory designed especially for Folkwear. Specific yarns are recommended, but may not be available in your area. Therefore, we've included weight, yardage, and gauge information so you can choose other appropriate yarns.

How are Folkwear patterns sized?
Folkwear patterns are made for women, men, and children, so be sure to use the appropriate sizing chart on the back of the pattern envelope to match your measurements to the correct size for that garment.

All sizes are included in the pattern envelope, so you can easily combine them for a custom fit. For example, on the pattern pieces with cutting lines for different sizes, you might use the cutting line for Medium in the bust and waist area, but gradually move over to the Large cutting line for the hip area. Additional alterations are easy on Folkwear patterns, because many of the pattern pieces are squares or rectangles. Therefore, you can often add to the vertical seams to achieve greater width and adjust the horizontal seams for length.

Many of the older Folkwear patterns are sized to a Misses 16, which is quite small these days. We may gradually go back and re-size the most popular old Folkwear patterns up to size XL (46" bust). Your vote will help us decide which ones to start with. If you have a favorite Folkwear pattern that you wish was sized larger, let us know which one it is by casting your vote on the News & Notes page.

All patterns released between 1998 and 2001 are sized Extra Small to Extra Large. All patterns released after 2002 are sized up to 2X (50" bust) for looser styles and 3X (54" bust) for fitted styles. See the charts below for women's and men's size measurements.