A dressmaker's journal instruction book and cardboard pattern pieces ~ the art of cutting and making clothing to fit. This tailoring school system was published by J. R. Van Dames & Co., Grand Rapids, Michigan. and awarded an honor at the World's Fair, 1893. If you are a fashion history buff, researcher, or even a museum, this is a wonderful treasure.   

The paper bound book shows steps of how to take measurements, drafting a pattern and tracing pieces.  All to achieve a perfect fit for women and children.  Instructions included for lady's bodices, child's waist (blouse), gored skirts, sailor collar & cape, princess & wrapper and knee pants /trousers.

Included with the instruction book, a group of six heavy cardboard pattern pieces for a bodice.  The pieces, with measurements, have adjustable metal brad slides to adjust to the correct size. This particular set of pattern pieces was used by a dressmaker for hire, as in pencil are her own written notations.  Each of the cardboard pieces are stamped with the Van Dames School and World's Fair Premium Tailor System, Copyright 1893.  A few of the pieces have copyright 1899, so were updated. 

This rather unique sewing guide collection is in very nice condition. Not minty, but quite nice.  A small amount of paper loss on some of cardboard pieces.  One short tear  (no harm) on the book.