TwitterPattern Archives FAQ
Which patterns are available?
We make nearly every pattern have ever made available—over 40 years' worth! There may be a few patterns that are not available due to the fact that the original was damaged, the pattern is missing some pieces etc.
Should I buy an older favorite pattern or a modern pattern?
Before ordering a historical pattern we strongly recommend you browse our catalog to see if we offer a similar modern pattern.
Can I buy these from stores?
No. These are only available direct from KWIK SEW. The patterns are kept in the KWIK SEW vault at the company's headquarters and reproductions are made one at a time on a special order basis.
Have the patterns been cut or used?
No. The originals have been archived safely in our vault.
Is it an actual pattern?
The out-of-print patterns are reproductions of historical patterns found in the KWIK SEW vault. This has many advantages. The patterns are complete: they won't be torn, they contain the instruction sheet and all pieces are accounted for. The reproductions are on heavy white paper with color coded cutting lines, just as the originals. However, the reproductions may not be perfect, as the originals may have some blemishes due to the fact that the pattern has been stored away for years. It may have been torn, marked etc. before being stored in the vault.
How many patterns may I buy?
Unlike vintage patterns, where there may only be one or two copies of the pattern available, these are reproductions from patterns in the KWIK SEW archive. Therefore, quantities are not limited.
What if someone buys the pattern that I want?
The original pattern remains in the KWIK SEW vault. You do not have to worry that someone will buy the last one.
Do you accept checks?
You may pay by credit card (VISA, MasterCard, or DISCOVER). We do not accept checks.
Will the pattern fit like a modern pattern?
As fit and construction techniques have changed through the decades, a historical KWIK SEW pattern may fit differently or use different construction techniques compared to modern patterns. In addition the amount of ease in patterns has changed with the changing fashions throughout the decades.
I am a size 10. Will a size 10 vintage pattern fit me the same way as today's size 10?
Maybe. Please go by your measurements and the chart on the back of the pattern envelope for the pattern you ordered. On vintage patterns, the garment ease and style ease may be different; therefore patterns may fit differently.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. Actual postage charges would be added to your order.
How long does it take to get a pattern, once I order it?
It takes approximately 7 business days for us to locate and reproduce the pattern.
I have a very good description of the pattern, but I don't know the exact pattern number. If I describe the pattern, can you find it for me?
We are more than happy to help you, however we need the KWIK SEW pattern number in order to find the pattern in our archives. The patterns are stored in our vaults and organized by pattern number.
I am missing only one piece from an old pattern, can I order just this one piece?
No. The entire pattern is reproduced and available in its entirety. This keeps the historical patterns intact. The only exception is our instruction sheets.
All I need is the instruction sheet. I still have the pattern pieces. Can I order just the instruction sheet and not the pattern, itself?
Yes.
How can I order a historical pattern?
You may order these direct from KWIK SEW; contact us via phone, fax, or email
When I bought the original pattern, it was only a few dollars. Why does the pattern cost so much now?
It takes time for the Archivist to find the pattern in the vault and to reproduce the pattern.
I have some old KWIK SEW patterns. Do you buy them?
We are sorry, but not at this time.
How do I know how much a pattern costs?
We make it easy for you. All patterns have the same price and include shipping and handling costs.
What is the condition of the patterns?
The pattern you are getting is unused. It is a reproduction made on new, quality, white paper. The original pattern may have some superficial imperfections, the envelope may have suffered some minor wear, etc. and these will be on the reproduction copy as well. We believe, however, that these issues will be minor.
Can I make copies of the pattern for my classes?
No. It is a violation of copyright laws to do so.
