Product Description
This Drawstring Shift 18th Century Sewing Pattern from Fig Leaf Patterns is drafted from an original piece dating to the late 18th century in the Daughters of the American Revolution collection. Shifts were worn by all women and were typically made of linen. This shift pattern is suitable as an undergarment for to late 18th and early 19th century styles.
Features
- Late 18th century shift pattern based on an original garment
- Printed in color on large format printer with 20 lb paper - no paper piecing required
- Historical notes, fitting tips, and full instruction booklet with pictures included
- Pattern includes sizes 8-18 (bust measurement of 35 1/2" - 44") or 18-28 (bust measurement of 44" - 54")
- Made in the USA by Fig Leaf Patterns
Historical Notes
The shift’s shape changed somewhat towards the end of the 1700s, with shorter, narrow sleeves replacing earlier elbow-length gathered ones. This one is transitional, with narrow sleeves not yet as short as they became around 1800. It is also lacking the gusset insets at the hem, instead the trapezoidal shape is cut in one. Both front and back are pieced in different places to conserve fabric. It also has a seam at the shoulder and no shoulder straps.
About Fig Leaf Patterns
The mission of Fig Leaf Patterns is to produce commercial patterns based faithfully on the style and construction of surviving garments in museum collections and private collections.
