Restoring and preserving vintage sewing patterns

Restore

 Is one of your favorite sewing patterns damaged or incomplete? We may be able to help! Pattern Rescue collects all the odds and ends of the vintage pattern world -- empty envelopes, stray pieces, patterns missing half their contents. People send them here -- and we sort, organize, and keep them safe. More importantly, we make them available to folks who need them.

This service is absolutely free. There's no charge for placing the request, for the replacement pieces themselves, or even for shipping (and yes, we will ship replacement pattern pieces anywhere in the world). However, you must be using the pieces to repair or improve a vintage sewing pattern you already own.

 Getting started is easy. First, register your email address (if you haven't already), fill out the request form below, and follow the instructions to get us a photo of the pattern (if you can). Then:

1. We'll check through the thousands of available pattern pieces we have on hand. It it's there, we'll email you for your shipping address and send it out.

2. In some cases, we'll check with our volunteers to see if anyone has the pattern and can provide a copy of the piece or pieces you need (see the sidebar at right). This can usually be done online.

3. If all else fails, we'll add your request to the Post area, where visitors to the site will see what you need and:

   • can get in touch with us if they can help;
     (and perhaps earn a Pattern Point or two in the process)

   • can report a sighting of the pattern online.
     We'll try contacting the seller to get you replacement copy pieces if appropriate -- or perhaps you'll decide to buy a better example and donate YOUR battered pattern to us.

4. Your request will remain open for four months -- and we'll look through all new donations as they come in. At the end of four months, we'll ask if you want to renew your request.

 There's no limit to the number of patterns you may request pieces for, but you'll need to submit a separate form for each pattern. Keep in mind that you must already own the pattern and be trying to restore it. (If you're looking for a complete pattern, check the Recycle and Trade areas, or use our Wanted to Buy form. If you want pattern pieces for scrapbooking or altered art, you're at the wrong site.)

If we need a photo or scan of the pattern to post your request, we'll stop looking if you don't send one. We can't use photos that are online but not taken by you.

Ok - ready to give it a try?

 We'll be in touch in a day or two to clear clear up any questions and let you know whether we've located the pieces you need or will be putting your request on the Post page. (Unless, of course, you didn't register first.)

While we think it's unlikely that abuse of this system will be a problem, we reserve the right to refuse service to anyone if we feel that the request, or the person making the request, is abusing or disrupting Pattern Rescue's services.