Paper Sewing Patterns, Part 2

Jul 16, 2025

Discover the fascinating world of paper sewing patterns, starting with trailblazers Ellen Curtis Demorest and Ebenezer Butterick, who revolutionized the industry. Learn about the democratization of fashion through standardized tissue patterns and how these innovations empowered women. Explore the historical evolution of sewing patterns, with a spotlight on the colorful designs of the 1920s and the rise of companies like Simplicity. The discussion also touches on the cultural significance of sewing and its enduring relevance today.

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ANECDOTE

Ellen Demarest's Pattern Legacy

Ellen Louise Curtis Demarest, after marrying William Demarest, took over the pattern printing business and expanded it significantly.
They offered colored paper patterns and ran a fashion magazine including removable full-sized patterns to boost their brand.

INSIGHT

Ellen Demarest's Progressive Employment

Ellen Demarest employed women and Black workers with equal pay, advocating for women's workforce inclusion.
Her magazine featured women writers and supported women's labor causes.

INSIGHT

Butterick's Pattern Innovations

Ebenezer Butterick pioneered multi-sized, standardized tissue patterns for men before expanding to women.
He patented his patterns and innovated packaging, enabling mass production and wide size ranges.

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Ellen Curtis Demorest and Ebeneezer Butterick are the two names most often invoked as the start of multi-sized patterns printed for home sewists. Once they proved it was a viable business, a lot of other offerings appeared.

Research:

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