Rose’s Buttons

Today I thought I’d talk about the terms commonly used to describe the condition of used patterns.

Vintage Pattern

• Uncut, factory folded. This means that the pattern has never been used and is still folded as the factory folded it. This is the most desirable condition by most collectors and sewing enthusiasts. It’s basically buying a brand new pattern at a used pattern price.
• Uncut.  This means that the pattern has been cut apart, but not at the printed cut lines.  So it is not factory folded, but hasn’t been used to cut fabric.  There’s very little difference between this and a factory folded pattern, because you’re still getting a new pattern at a used price.
• Cut. This means that the pattern has been cut and used at least once. Unless altered, these patterns are perfectly useable. The description should also indicate whether or not all the pattern pieces are present. Generally patterns are not sold if all of the pieces are not present. However, the exception is that there are a few designer and rare patterns that are so desirable that collectors will buy them even with some pieces missing. There is a resource for missing pattern pieces at http://www.patternrescue.com/restore.html
• Cut,pinked. When a pattern has been cut with pinking shears, it makes it more difficult (but not impossible) to reuse. Pinking shears create a zigzag edge that makes the edge line of the pattern difficult to recreate. This is the least desirable condition and many sellers won’t even attempt to sell a pattern that has been cut with pinking shears.