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    News

    Did you know . . . ??

    March 28, 2017 4 Comments on Did you know . . . ??

    Did you know . . . ??

    Though I have been a fan of Folkwear for years, I am still the “new” owner of Folkwear, and I am learning a LOT about this company as I go about the daily business of its business.  I am trying to wrap my head around the 40 years of history of this independent pattern company, and all the work, details, and passion and so many women have put into (speaking of which, I loved reading the comments from this blog post from Fringe Association).  So, I thought I would list a few interesting facts I’ve learned about Folkwear over the past months,

    Did you know . . .

    1. That Folkwear has been around since 1974!  That makes it (maybe) the original independent pattern company (that is still around).  Pretty great that the vision of the founders has kept going!
    2. The first patterns printed were:  #101 through #106, and the most recent pattern developed and released was the #254 Swing Coat.
    3. A number of patterns include knitting patterns, too! Like this 1950s cardigan which comes with the #256 At the Hop pattern. 
    4. There are instructions for traditional embellishment in most the patterns.  Which means there are instructions for cross stitch, crochet, embroidery, beading, shirring, smocking, inserting lace, dying, and others in many of the patterns.  You can get a lesson on traditional embellishment, embellish your garment - then take those skills to your next sewing project.
    5. All patterns were based on actual authentic garments from the time period or culture.
    6. Since the 1970s, the iconic Folkwear illustrations have been drawn by Gretchen Schields.  Gretchen is a talented jewelry designer as well (and we hope to have an interview with her here soon)!
    7. Folkwear patterns are sold throughout the world - each week we ship to customers and stockists all around the globe.
    8. Folkwear has a home goods pattern line!  We have patterns for A Japanese Interior (futon, cover, quilt, pillows), Victoria’s Boudoir (sham, dust ruffle, pillows, etc.), and Baby’s Nursery (quilt, teddy bear, pillow).  Each pattern has multiple pieces to make.
    9. Every pattern is well researched - there is a history, geography, or anthropology lesson with nearly every pattern.
    10. Our customers are awesome!  I’ve heard so many wonderful things about Folkwear since I have come on board and the customers always give such sweet praise that I am sure they must be the very best!


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    4 Responses

    Pola Harty
    Pola Harty

    April 12, 2017

    So pleased with your patterns. Makes sewing exciting.

    Thank you, Pola

    Jules Means (Craft Captive)
    Jules Means (Craft Captive)

    April 01, 2017

    Oh, Molly, I am so glad you have taken on Folkwear Patterns! I remember making some great things with the patterns many years ago. I’m following your blog and Instagram and FB. Wonderful!

    Folkwear
    Folkwear

    March 30, 2017

    Thanks for your comment! Yes, Folkwear has been around a while! You can see all the patterns at the top (under Shop). The older patterns are mostly the ones with the lowest numbers. Enjoy!

    Constance Johnsrud
    Constance Johnsrud

    March 29, 2017

    Oh my gosh! I didn’t think "folkwear patterns existed anymore. I bought them in ’70’s & ’80’s then seemed like company was sold & they left Marin County, California. Somehow I’d love to see what patterns have been made since that time. Is that possible?

    Leave a comment


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