Answers.

So, are these actually from public domain patterns? Or is that just something you are saying so that you're less likely to get sued?
       
        The problem with determining whether something is public domain material or not is that it doesn't usually come with a big 'public domain' stamp on it. Copyright law can be a big, treacherous bog under the best of circumstances; when you are dealing with the myriad ephemera of yesteryear from international sources it begins to inhabit the 'here there be dragons' part of the map. It tends to be a noteworthy deal once famous works enter into the public domain, as 'Peter Pan' just did, but otherwise often the best you will have to go on is absence of evidence.

    In the interest of full disclosure, here is what I found (and didn't find) when researching these patterns.

     The publishing company itself was established in 1890. It produced a series of periodicals covering various domestic arts, including several different sewing pattern publications, until it was shut down at the end of World War II. The only registered copyrights I have been able to find for any of its published works date from 1914, registering specific illustrations from specific issues, and absolutely no trace of a copyright renewal after 28 years had elapsed. A handful of related standalone books were also copyrighted (but could also easily have passed into public domain by this time). I have also managed to uncover one contributing artist who copyrighted her contributions independently- she specialized in lacework, and helpfully listed her date of birth when filing- 1863. I have not yet been able to discover her date of death, can not establish that 70 years have passed since her passing, and so will not be posting any of her work at this time. Otherwise, aside from the odd article authors, editors, printers, and the exceedingly rare guest cover artist, the publications seem to have relied on uncredited in-house pattern designers, technical writers, and illustrators. No sign in the issues of who they were, no trace in any copyright records I've been able to turn up of their names. They are both unfortunately and fortunately anonymous. Unfortunately because I would like to be able to better credit them for their work, fortunately because it makes a much simpler, clearer case for them being public domain at this time.

      So the patterns that I am digitizing were designed by anonymous artists for a periodical publication that went out of business 70 years ago. After trawling through multiple official government databases, I have not been able to uncover any evidence that any aspect of these patterns were ever officially copyrighted, much less that those copyrights were ever renewed (and the timeline for renewal makes it even more unlikely). I am 99% sure that these patterns are clear to use- that remaining 1% is tied between my faith in large bureaucratic organizations to effectively communicate information vs the possibility that a 157-year-old lady is coming after me with lace tatting needles.

    These patterns are printed on cheap newspaper, they are old, they are crumbling. Sarah McLachlan starts singing 'In the Arms of the Angel' in my head when I look at them and won't shut up. I would like to see them used and preserved for the future in exactly the way that they won't be if everyone waits another 70 years just to obliterate that last 1% of doubt.    


 What formats do digital patterns come in?
     Each digital pattern purchase includes PDF downloads for both the standard 8.5"x 11" print-at-home format and a 36" wide copyshop format. Instructions for how to print and assemble the print-at-home version are included with your pattern (both are pretty typical and straightforward; I am not reinventing the wheel here). 

I hate assembling print-at-home patterns with a fiery hate that burns hotter than the very sun itself. Do you sell hard copy patterns? 

     Yes I do. They are made to order, hand drawn on Swedish tracing paper, fully marked and pre-cut. Due to their handmade nature, they may or may not be available for sale at a given time, depending on the level of demand. They do cost more, including shipping, but you may find that is well worth the dodged headache if assembling patterns is something you despise. I am also considering offering them on oak tag in the future, so please let me know if that is something you would be interested in.
 
What is Swedish tracing paper/oak tag? 

     Swedish tracing paper is a translucent, cloth-like material that can be ironed, pinned, draped, and sewn. It is much more durable than the tissue paper that most commercial patterns are printed on, is great for drafting fit adjustments, and can even be used as material for a toile (muslin). Oak tag is a stiffer, opaque material that is very similar to the paper used for manila folders. Its rigidity and ability to hold a smooth edge makes it lay flat, and makes tracing onto your fabric much easier. Unfortunately, its rigidity also makes it more difficult to ship, especially patterns with larger pieces, so it's a more expensive option.


Do these patterns include seam allowances?

     They do not. The fabric requirements and cutting layouts account for the addition of seam allowances up to 1/2," but you will need to remember when cutting your fabric that the perimeters of each pattern piece are stitch lines, not the cut lines.


Can I sell garments created using Stopped Clock patterns? 

     Absolutely! These patterns come with a limited commercial license, meaning they can be freely used for small-scale commercial production. If you're making fewer than 100, you're good to go.


Can I sell copies of these patterns?

     No. Reproducing these patterns for personal use or educational purposes (for example, if you are teaching a sewing class and make copies for your students) will be treated as fair use, but you do not have permission to make the PDFs available for download (such as uploading them to your blog) or reproduce the patterns for profit.* Doing so will be considered copyright infringement (I've put in a lot of time and work to get them to where they are!). If you would like to carry Stopped Clock patterns in your store, please contact me.


*Referring to my own versions of these patterns. If you are using the original source material, you are in the clear.


Are Stopped Clock patterns offered in multiple sizes?

     Unfortunately not at this time. I do plan to grade them out from the originals at some point in the future, but it is going to take a lot of toiles and care to be able to offer a reliably good-quality extended size range, and I still need to acquire the experience and the skill set to effectively do so. Until then, Sunni at 'A Fashionable Stitch' has made an excellent tutorial on resizing vintage patterns to fit you, found here: Making the Grade.  


I'm an experienced pattern grader! Can I help?

     Ok, so this is entirely wishful thinking on my part. But yes! Yes you can, fictional experienced pattern grader who wants to help! Please contact me, and we'll see if we can work out a feasible level of compensation for your work, whether monetary (I can't afford much, but quote me something), help in digitizing some of your own pattern library, or in pattern copies (I have lots).
....
....I would also like a pony. 



This seam finish/stitch/technique/_________ would work a lot better than the one you used in your instructions.

     Let me know! I've been sewing for several years and try to do my homework, but am far from an expert. The sewing community has such a wealth of knowledge, skill, talent, and experience that it would be a shame to not tap into that to its full advantage. Suggestions and constructive criticism are always welcome. If you've got a correction, suggestions for era-appropriate techniques or embellishments, some interesting relevant fashion history, or just an idea that you think would work better, that is a valuable contribution. If it is useful enough to include in the instructions, you will be fully credited and will receive a free pattern of your choice.  


I made a dress/coat/blouse/suit/____ using one of your patterns! Want to see?

     Definitely!







Questions? Contact me here.