Recommended Fabrics

When it comes to choosing fabrics for this purse, you have so many options!

We recommend light-to-medium-weight wovens for the outer fabric and lining. You can use a heavier fabric if you think your machine can handle it, but you’ll be stitching through many different layers, so it may be a challenge.

Like any purse or bag that you intend to actually use, the structure is the most important part. The pattern requires a stiff, sew-in craft interfacing for the outer support. Do not use fusible interfacing, as it may create bubbling if the layers delaminate.

Fusible interfacing for the purse lining fabric is optional, but we do recommend adding interfacing to the tabs for structure and support. If you used a stiff, mediumweight fabric for the lining (like the yellow silk dupioni we used), we recommend that you don’t use interfacing. But if you’re using regular lining fabrics or a lightweight cotton, we recommend a fusible woven or weft interfacing applied to the lining fabric before construction.

Notions & Supplies

• Fabric for the purse
• Fabric for the lining
• Thread to match
• Stiff sew-in craft interfacing, like Lazy Girl Designs Stiff Stuff Firm
• Lightweight fusible woven or weft interfacing for the lining (optional)
• One metal chain purse shoulder strap
• One pair of ½-in (1.3 cm) metal D-rings
• One 3/4-in (1.9 cm) magnetic purse snap

Coming Soon!

Measure yourself around your upper bust (under your armpits and above your breasts, without a bra on), the fullest part of your bust (while wearing your preferred bra), the smallest part of your waist, and the fullest part of your hips (this is likely around the fullest part of your butt). Make sure to hold the measuring tape snugly and parallel to the ground. Compare your body measurements to the size chart.

Find your upper bust measurement on the size chart to find your garment size, and then scan down the cup sizes in that garment size column to find your cup size. For instance, a 37-inch upper bust will make you a size 10, and a 39-inch full bust means you need a B cup. Don’t worry if your waist doesn’t match the size 10 column’s measurement of 32 inches; you can grade the waist in or out as needed. It is most important to choose a size to fit your upper bust and cup size, as the waist is easier to adjust up or down.

Sewing pattern sizes are very different from ready-to-wear garments and bra sizes, so be sure to work with your measurements when choosing a size.

Charm’s 2-20 size range is designed for a body with an hourglass shape. Our 18-34 size range is designed for a body with less waist definition.

Still not sure which size range to choose? Learn more about our two size ranges here.(opens in new tab)

If you have never used a PDF pattern before, this short video is full of tips: How to Use A PDF Pattern.(opens in new tab)

It will show you how to choose which PDF format to use, how to print just your size(s), and how to easily assemble and cut out your pattern pieces.

We offer digital patterns in two formats: letter-sized PDFs to print at home and A0 sized PDFs to print at a copy shop. In the US, we highly recommend printing A0 files with The Plotted Pattern(opens in new tab). Outside of the US, these printers have been recommended(opens in new tab).

When you join us as a Glamour Circle member, you will receive one or two vintage-inspired sewing patterns a month (with a companion sew-along video) and join the most creative and fun sewing community around!

Specific benefits at the Glamour Circle tier include:

• A vintage-inspired sewing pattern on the first day of every month
• A companion sew-along tutorial video for the pattern
• Another pattern, Fit Clinic, or other digital goodie mid-month
• Access to the entire archive of Glamour Circle patterns and videos!
• A monthly live Crowdcast with Gertie where she shares the history and inspiration behind that month’s pattern
• Access to our community hub on Discord to post your projects, ask for advice, and chat with other members
• One Charm Pattern for free randomly every calendar year (Gertie’s choice)

To view all of the patterns in the Glamour Circle archive, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability = All Glamour Circle Patterns.”(opens in new tab)

Yes, absolutely! Unlike other monthly sewing memberships, when you are a Charm patron, you get access to the entire archive of sewing patterns available to your tier.

To view all of the membership patterns available at each tier, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability.”(opens in new tab)

Click here to join the membership on Patreon.(opens in new tab) There is no long term commitment required, and you can cancel at any time.

Recommended Fabrics

We recommend opaque woven fabrics of any weight: cottons like lawn, broadcloth, sateen, corduroy, and canvas; linen and linen blends; wool suiting, gabardine, and tweed; rayon challis or twill; silk taffeta, dupioni, shantung; and brocade. Nearly any woven fabric can
be used as long as it has enough structure to support the items you will put into the handbag. Lighter weight fabrics are appropriate for the smaller bag, and heavier weight fabrics can be used for the larger bag.

Stretch wovens are acceptable, but knit fabrics are not recommended.

For the lining, we recommend light- to medium-weight woven fabrics: cotton lawn, shirting, broadcloth, sateen, and cotton/silk blends work well. You can also line the bag with any of the light- to medium-weight fabrics listed for the outer fabric.

For the fusible fleece interfacing, we recommend: Pellon 987F, although any fusible fleece can be used. You can also use sew-in fleece interfacing, if desired.

Notions & Supplies

• Fabric for the bag
• Fabric for the lining
• Thread to match
• Fusible fleece interfacing

For the small bag, you’ll need about 1/2 yard (0.5 m) and for the larger bag, you’ll need about 3/4 yard (0.7 m) each of the fabric, the lining, and the fleece interfacing.

Measure yourself around your upper bust (under your armpits and above your breasts, without a bra on), the fullest part of your bust (while wearing your preferred bra), the smallest part of your waist, and the fullest part of your hips (this is likely around the fullest part of your butt). Make sure to hold the measuring tape snugly and parallel to the ground. Compare your body measurements to the size chart.

Find your upper bust measurement on the size chart to find your garment size, and then scan down the cup sizes in that garment size column to find your cup size. For instance, a 37-inch upper bust will make you a size 10, and a 39-inch full bust means you need a B cup. Don’t worry if your waist doesn’t match the size 10 column’s measurement of 32 inches; you can grade the waist in or out as needed. It is most important to choose a size to fit your upper bust and cup size, as the waist is easier to adjust up or down.

Sewing pattern sizes are very different from ready-to-wear garments and bra sizes, so be sure to work with your measurements when choosing a size.

Charm’s 2-20 size range is designed for a body with an hourglass shape. Our 18-34 size range is designed for a body with less waist definition.

Still not sure which size range to choose? Learn more about our two size ranges here.

If you have never used a PDF pattern before, this short video is full of tips: How to Use A PDF Pattern.

It will show you how to choose which PDF format to use, how to print just your size(s), and how to easily assemble and cut out your pattern pieces.

We offer digital patterns in two formats: letter-sized PDFs to print at home and A0 sized PDFs to print at a copy shop. In the US, we highly recommend printing A0 files with The Plotted Pattern. Outside of the US, these printers have been recommended.

When you join us as a Glamour Circle member, you will receive one or two vintage-inspired sewing patterns a month (with a companion sew-along video) and join the most creative and fun sewing community around!

Specific benefits at the Glamour Circle tier include:

• A vintage-inspired sewing pattern on the first day of every month
• A companion sew-along tutorial video for the pattern
• Another pattern or issue of Vintage by Gertie digital magazine mid-month
• Access to the entire archive of Glamour Circle patterns and videos!
• A monthly live Crowdcast with Gertie where she shares the history and inspiration behind that month’s pattern
• Access to our community hub on Discord to post your projects, ask for advice, and chat with other members
• One Charm Pattern for free randomly every calendar year (Gertie’s choice)

To view all of the patterns in the Glamour Circle archive, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability = All Glamour Circle Patterns.”

Yes, absolutely! Unlike other monthly sewing memberships, when you are a Charm patron, you get access to the entire archive of sewing patterns available to your tier.

To view all of the membership patterns available at each tier, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability.”

Click here to join the membership on Patreon. There is no long term commitment required, and you can cancel at any time.

Recommended Fabrics

For a sheer Spiderweb Apron, we recommend: silk organza and flocked lace.

For a non-sheer apron, we recommend light- to medium-weight wovens: cottons like poplin, sateen, and broadcloth; and silks with body like taffeta, dupioni, and shantung.

Notions & Supplies

• Fabric for the apron
• Buckram for the apron support
• Thread to match
• 1/4-inch-wide (6 mm) cording for the webbing

Coming soon!

Recommended Fabrics

For the Bat Collar, we recommend sturdy, stiff fabrics: leather, upholstery pleather, and stiff craft felt.

Notions & Supplies

• Leather or fabric for the collar
• Thread to match
• 3 yards (2.7 m) double fold bias tape

This is a great scrap-busting project! Yardage requirements coming soon.

Recommended Fabrics

We recommend nearly any type or weight of woven fabric. Avoid fabrics with an open weave or transparency like lace, tulle, or eyelet unless the fabric is underlined. Stretch wovens are acceptable, but knits are not recommended for this project.

For the lining, we recommend: the same fabric as the outer purse or light- to medium-weight cottons and lining fabrics.

Notions & Supplies

• Fabric for the purse
• Lining fabric
• Thread to match
• Fusible fleece interfacing
• Plastic canvas craft mesh
• One pair round or D-shaped purse handles, measuring approximately 5 to 6 inches (12.7 to 15.2 cm) in diameter

The Shelley Purse is a great scrap buster! If the purse is self-lined, you’ll need 5/8 yard (0.6 m) of fabric, plus 3/8 yard (0.4 m) of fusible fleece.

The Shelley Purse goes with anything! Gertie’s blue dress is the Gina Bustier as a bodice, with a gathered skirt. The pink gingham dress is the Barbara Bodice paired with the Millicent Skirt.

Measure yourself around your upper bust (under your armpits and above your breasts, without a bra on), the fullest part of your bust (while wearing your preferred bra), the smallest part of your waist, and the fullest part of your hips (this is likely around the fullest part of your butt). Make sure to hold the measuring tape snugly and parallel to the ground. Compare your body measurements to the size chart.

Find your upper bust measurement on the size chart to find your garment size, and then scan down the cup sizes in that garment size column to find your cup size. For instance, a 37-inch upper bust will make you a size 10, and a 39-inch full bust means you need a B cup. Don’t worry if your waist doesn’t match the size 10 column’s measurement of 32 inches; you can grade the waist in or out as needed. It is most important to choose a size to fit your upper bust and cup size, as the waist is easier to adjust up or down.

Sewing pattern sizes are very different from ready-to-wear garments and bra sizes, so be sure to work with your measurements when choosing a size.

Charm’s 2-20 size range is designed for a body with an hourglass shape. Our 18-34 size range is designed for a body with less waist definition.

Still not sure which size range to choose? Learn more about our two size ranges here.

If you have never used a PDF pattern before, this short video is full of tips: How to Use A PDF Pattern.

It will show you how to choose which PDF format to use, how to print just your size(s), and how to easily assemble and cut out your pattern pieces.

We offer digital patterns in two formats: letter-sized PDFs to print at home and A0 sized PDFs to print at a copy shop. In the US, we highly recommend printing A0 files with The Plotted Pattern. Outside of the US, these printers have been recommended.

When you join us as a Glamour Circle member, you will receive one or two vintage-inspired sewing patterns a month (with a companion sew-along video) and join the most creative and fun sewing community around!

Specific benefits at the Glamour Circle tier include:

• A vintage-inspired sewing pattern on the first day of every month
• A companion sew-along tutorial video for the pattern
• Another pattern or issue of Vintage by Gertie digital magazine mid-month
• Access to the entire archive of Glamour Circle patterns and videos!
• A monthly live Crowdcast with Gertie where she shares the history and inspiration behind that month’s pattern
• Access to our community hub on Discord to post your projects, ask for advice, and chat with other members
• One Charm Pattern for free randomly every calendar year (Gertie’s choice)

To view all of the patterns in the Glamour Circle archive, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability = All Glamour Circle Patterns.”

Yes, absolutely! Unlike other monthly sewing memberships, when you are a Charm patron, you get access to the entire archive of sewing patterns available to your tier.

To view all of the membership patterns available at each tier, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability.”

Click here to join the membership on Patreon. There is no long term commitment required, and you can cancel at any time.

Not sure which size range to choose? Learn more about our two size ranges here.

Sizes 2-20

Sizes 18-34

The Normal Turban is designed to fit an adult-sized head, with a little extra room for a larger hairstyle. The sewing instructions are written so you can adjust the size of the turban as needed before finalizing construction.

Recommended Fabrics

We recommend light- to mediumweight stretch knit fabrics with 50% to 70% stretch, like stretch velvet, interlock, and jersey. Spandex blends work well.

Woven fabrics are not recommended for this design.

Notions & Supplies

• Fabric for the shorts
• Thread to match

The Norma Turban requires 1 yard (0.9 m) of fabric that is 45-inches-wide or 5/8 yard (0.6 m) of fabric that is 60-inches-wide.

Measure yourself around your upper bust (under your armpits and above your breasts, without a bra on), the fullest part of your bust (while wearing your preferred bra), the smallest part of your waist, and the fullest part of your hips (this is likely around the fullest part of your butt). Make sure to hold the measuring tape snugly and parallel to the ground. Compare your body measurements to the size chart.

Find your upper bust measurement on the size chart to find your garment size, and then scan down the cup sizes in that garment size column to find your cup size. For instance, a 37-inch upper bust will make you a size 10, and a 39-inch full bust means you need a B cup. Don’t worry if your waist doesn’t match the size 10 column’s measurement of 32 inches; you can grade the waist in or out as needed. It is most important to choose a size to fit your upper bust and cup size, as the waist is easier to adjust up or down.

Sewing pattern sizes are very different from ready-to-wear garments and bra sizes, so be sure to work with your measurements when choosing a size.

Charm’s 2-20 size range is designed for a body with an hourglass shape. Our 18-34 size range is designed for a body with less waist definition.

Still not sure which size range to choose? Learn more about our two size ranges here.

If you have never used a PDF pattern before, this short video is full of tips: How to Use A PDF Pattern.

It will show you how to choose which PDF format to use, how to print just your size(s), and how to easily assemble and cut out your pattern pieces.

We offer digital patterns in two formats: letter-sized PDFs to print at home and A0 sized PDFs to print at a copy shop. In the US, we highly recommend printing A0 files with The Plotted Pattern. Outside of the US, these printers have been recommended.

When you join us as a Glamour Circle member, you will receive one vintage-inspired sewing pattern (with a companion sew-along video) on the first of the month, plus a second sewing pattern or Vintage by Gertie magazine issue every single month around the 15th. And you join the most creative and fun sewing community around!

Specific benefits at the Glamour Circle tier include:

• A vintage-inspired sewing pattern on the first day of every month
• A companion sew-along tutorial video for that pattern
• In addition to the monthly pattern, you’ll receive 8 additional patterns or digital projects throughout the year
• Four issues of Vintage by Gertie, our fashion, sewing, and lifestyle magazine
• Access to the entire archive of Glamour Circle patterns and videos!
• A monthly live Crowdcast with Gertie where she shares the history and inspiration behind that month’s pattern
• Access to our community hub on Discord to post your projects, ask for advice, and chat with other members
• One Charm Pattern for free randomly every calendar year (Gertie’s choice)

To view all of the patterns in the Glamour Circle archive, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability = All Glamour Circle Patterns.”

Yes, absolutely! Unlike other monthly sewing memberships, when you are a Charm patron, you get access to the entire archive of sewing patterns available to your tier.

To view all of the membership patterns available at each tier, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability.”

Click here to join the membership on Patreon. There is no long term commitment required, and you can cancel at any time.

Not sure which size range to choose? Learn more about our two size ranges here.

Sizes 2-20

Sizes 18-34

The Valedictorian Bow Tie and Suspenders are designed for an adult and are fully adjustable.

Recommended Fabrics

We recommend light- to medium-weight wovens: cottons like broadcloth, chambray, poplin, sateen, shirting, and lightweight twill; linen and linen blends; lightweight wool suitings; brocade; or silk/wool blends.

The bow tie and suspenders are a great way to use scraps from other projects!

Stretch wovens are possible, but knit fabrics are not recommended.

Notions & Supplies

SUSPENDERS WITH LEATHER LOOPS

• Fabric for the suspenders
• Small piece of leather
• Thread to match your fabric and leather
• Light-weight fusible interfacing (woven, weft, or tricot types)
• 6-inch (15.2 cm) of 1-inch-wide (2.5 cm) regular elastic
• Two 1-inch-wide (2.5 cm) adjustable slide ratched hardware
• Three 1-inch-wide (2.5 cm) rectangular buckle rings
• Three leather suspender loops
• Six 3/4-inch (1.9 cm) flat buttons
• Fabric glue, temporary adhesive, or sewing clips

SUSPENDERS WITH METAL CLIPS

• Fabric for the suspenders
• Small piece of leather
• Thread to match your fabric and leather
• Light-weight fusible interfacing (woven, weft, or tricot types)
• 6-inch (15.2 cm) of 1-inch-wide (2.5 cm) regular elastic
• Two 1-inch-wide (2.5 cm) adjustable slide ratched hardware
• Three 1-inch-wide (2.5 cm) suspender clips
• Fabric glue, temporary adhesive, or sewing clips

TRADITIONAL BOW TIE

• Fabric for the bow tie
• Thread to match
• Light-weight fusible interfacing (woven, weft, or tricot types)

ADJUSTABLE BOW TIE

• Fabric for the bow tie
• Thread to match
• Light-weight fusible interfacing (woven, weft, or tricot types)
• Adjustable cravat or bow tie hardware
• 1 yard (0.9 m) of 1/2-inch-wide (1.3 cm) regular elastic

Coming soon!

Gertie is wearing the Valedictorian Bow Tie and Suspender set with a Patsy Blouse (with Mutton Sleeve expansion) and a plaid wool Charm School Uniform skirt.

Measure yourself around your upper bust (under your armpits and above your breasts, without a bra on), the fullest part of your bust (while wearing your preferred bra), the smallest part of your waist, and the fullest part of your hips (this is likely around the fullest part of your butt). Make sure to hold the measuring tape snugly and parallel to the ground. Compare your body measurements to the size chart.

Find your upper bust measurement on the size chart to find your garment size, and then scan down the cup sizes in that garment size column to find your cup size. For instance, a 37-inch upper bust will make you a size 10, and a 39-inch full bust means you need a B cup. Don’t worry if your waist doesn’t match the size 10 column’s measurement of 32 inches; you can grade the waist in or out as needed. It is most important to choose a size to fit your upper bust and cup size, as the waist is easier to adjust up or down.

Sewing pattern sizes are very different from ready-to-wear garments and bra sizes, so be sure to work with your measurements when choosing a size.

Charm’s 2-20 size range is designed for a body with an hourglass shape. Our 18-34 size range is designed for a body with less waist definition.

Still not sure which size range to choose? Learn more about our two size ranges here.

If you have never used a PDF pattern before, this short video is full of tips: How to Use A PDF Pattern.

It will show you how to choose which PDF format to use, how to print just your size(s), and how to easily assemble and cut out your pattern pieces.

We offer digital patterns in two formats: letter-sized PDFs to print at home and A0 sized PDFs to print at a copy shop. In the US, we highly recommend printing A0 files with The Plotted Pattern. Outside of the US, these printers have been recommended.

When you join us as a Glamour Circle member, you will receive one vintage-inspired sewing pattern (with a companion sew-along video) on the first of the month, plus a second sewing pattern or Vintage by Gertie magazine issue every single month around the 15th. And you join the most creative and fun sewing community around!

Specific benefits at the Glamour Circle tier include:

• A vintage-inspired sewing pattern on the first day of every month
• A companion sew-along tutorial video for that pattern
• In addition to the monthly pattern, you’ll receive 8 additional patterns or digital projects throughout the year
• Four issues of Vintage by Gertie, our fashion, sewing, and lifestyle magazine
• Access to the entire archive of Glamour Circle patterns and videos!
• A monthly live Crowdcast with Gertie where she shares the history and inspiration behind that month’s pattern
• Access to our community hub on Discord to post your projects, ask for advice, and chat with other members
• One Charm Pattern for free randomly every calendar year (Gertie’s choice)

To view all of the patterns in the Glamour Circle archive, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability = All Glamour Circle Patterns.”

Yes, absolutely! Unlike other monthly sewing memberships, when you are a Charm patron, you get access to the entire archive of sewing patterns available to your tier.

To view all of the membership patterns available at each tier, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability.”

Click here to join the membership on Patreon. There is no long term commitment required, and you can cancel at any time.

Not sure which size range to choose? Learn more about our two size ranges here.

Sizes 2-20

Sizes 18-34

The Field Trip Backpack measures approximately 8½ inches (in) (21.6 cm) in width, 4½ in (11.4 cm) in depth, and 10½ in (26.7 cm) in height. To adjust the size of the backpack, print your pattern pieces at a larger or smaller scale and adjust the size of the strap slider rings and buckles. Due to the many layers of fabric, underlining, interfacing, and lining, a smaller bag will be more difficult to sew.

Recommended Fabrics

For the outer fabric, we recommend medium-weight wovens: cottons like canvas, denim, corduroy, sateen, and twill; wool suitings, flannel, and tweed; brocade; or silk/wool blends.

For the underlining, we recommend waterproof canvas.

For the lining, we recommend lining fabrics like rayon bemberg, acetate, or silky polyester; or lightweight cotton lawn or broadcloth.

For the interfacing, we recommend mediumweight woven fusible interfacing such as Pellon SF101.

Stretch wovens are possible, but knit fabrics are not recommended.

Notions & Supplies

• Fabric for the backpack
• Waterproof canvas for underlining
• Lining fabric
• Thread to match
• Medium-weight fusible interfacing
• 3/4-inch (19 mm) magnetic button snap
• Two 1-inch (2.5 cm) strap slider buckles
• Two 1-inch (2.5 cm) rectangular rings
• Two decorative buckles (optional)
• Fabric glue stick or washable adhesive

Coming soon!

Gertie is wearing her pink wool tweed Field Trip Backpack with a black Rosie Top and a pink pleated Pep Rally Skirt.

Measure yourself around your upper bust (under your armpits and above your breasts, without a bra on), the fullest part of your bust (while wearing your preferred bra), the smallest part of your waist, and the fullest part of your hips (this is likely around the fullest part of your butt). Make sure to hold the measuring tape snugly and parallel to the ground. Compare your body measurements to the size chart.

Find your upper bust measurement on the size chart to find your garment size, and then scan down the cup sizes in that garment size column to find your cup size. For instance, a 37-inch upper bust will make you a size 10, and a 39-inch full bust means you need a B cup. Don’t worry if your waist doesn’t match the size 10 column’s measurement of 32 inches; you can grade the waist in or out as needed. It is most important to choose a size to fit your upper bust and cup size, as the waist is easier to adjust up or down.

Sewing pattern sizes are very different from ready-to-wear garments and bra sizes, so be sure to work with your measurements when choosing a size.

Charm’s 2-20 size range is designed for a body with an hourglass shape. Our 18-34 size range is designed for a body with less waist definition.

Still not sure which size range to choose? Learn more about our two size ranges here.

If you have never used a PDF pattern before, this short video is full of tips: How to Use A PDF Pattern.

It will show you how to choose which PDF format to use, how to print just your size(s), and how to easily assemble and cut out your pattern pieces.

We offer digital patterns in two formats: letter-sized PDFs to print at home and A0 sized PDFs to print at a copy shop. In the US, we highly recommend printing A0 files with The Plotted Pattern. Outside of the US, these printers have been recommended.

When you join us as a Glamour Circle member, you will receive one vintage-inspired sewing pattern (with a companion sew-along video) on the first of the month, plus a second sewing pattern or Vintage by Gertie magazine issue every single month around the 15th. And you join the most creative and fun sewing community around!

Specific benefits at the Glamour Circle tier include:

• A vintage-inspired sewing pattern on the first day of every month
• A companion sew-along tutorial video for that pattern
• In addition to the monthly pattern, you’ll receive 8 additional patterns or digital projects throughout the year
• Four issues of Vintage by Gertie, our fashion, sewing, and lifestyle magazine
• Access to the entire archive of Glamour Circle patterns and videos!
• A monthly live Crowdcast with Gertie where she shares the history and inspiration behind that month’s pattern
• Access to our community hub on Discord to post your projects, ask for advice, and chat with other members
• One Charm Pattern for free randomly every calendar year (Gertie’s choice)

To view all of the patterns in the Glamour Circle archive, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability = All Glamour Circle Patterns.”

Yes, absolutely! Unlike other monthly sewing memberships, when you are a Charm patron, you get access to the entire archive of sewing patterns available to your tier.

To view all of the membership patterns available at each tier, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability.”

Click here to join the membership on Patreon. There is no long term commitment required, and you can cancel at any time.

Not sure which size range to choose? Learn more about our two size ranges here.

Sizes 2-20

Sizes 18-34

The Charm School Necktie is adjustable.

Recommended Fabrics

We recommend light- to mediumweight wovens: cottons like shirting, flannel, poplin, broadcloth, chambray, sateen, pique, twill, and lawns; rayon or tencel twill, gabardine, or crepe; silk or synthetic crepe and satin; gabardine; linen and linen blends; wool suitings, flannel, and tweed; brocade; and silk/wool blends.

The necktie can be self-lined or you can use lining fabrics like lightweight silks, silk/cotton blends, rayon bemberg, acetate, or silky polyester.

Stretch wovens are possible, but knit fabrics are not recommended.

Notions & Supplies

• Fabric for the necktie
• Lining fabric
• Thread to match

Coming soon!

Gertie is wearing her Charm School Necktie with a Patsy Blouse (with Mutton Sleeve pattern expansion) and a brown wool Charm School Uniform. Susie is wearing a nearly identical outfit, with a Patsy Blouse that has the short sleeve option.

Measure yourself around your upper bust (under your armpits and above your breasts, without a bra on), the fullest part of your bust (while wearing your preferred bra), the smallest part of your waist, and the fullest part of your hips (this is likely around the fullest part of your butt). Make sure to hold the measuring tape snugly and parallel to the ground. Compare your body measurements to the size chart.

Find your upper bust measurement on the size chart to find your garment size, and then scan down the cup sizes in that garment size column to find your cup size. For instance, a 37-inch upper bust will make you a size 10, and a 39-inch full bust means you need a B cup. Don’t worry if your waist doesn’t match the size 10 column’s measurement of 32 inches; you can grade the waist in or out as needed. It is most important to choose a size to fit your upper bust and cup size, as the waist is easier to adjust up or down.

Sewing pattern sizes are very different from ready-to-wear garments and bra sizes, so be sure to work with your measurements when choosing a size.

Charm’s 2-20 size range is designed for a body with an hourglass shape. Our 18-34 size range is designed for a body with less waist definition.

Still not sure which size range to choose? Learn more about our two size ranges here.

If you have never used a PDF pattern before, this short video is full of tips: How to Use A PDF Pattern.

It will show you how to choose which PDF format to use, how to print just your size(s), and how to easily assemble and cut out your pattern pieces.

We offer digital patterns in two formats: letter-sized PDFs to print at home and A0 sized PDFs to print at a copy shop. In the US, we highly recommend printing A0 files with The Plotted Pattern. Outside of the US, these printers have been recommended.

When you join us as a Glamour Circle member, you will receive one vintage-inspired sewing pattern (with a companion sew-along video) on the first of the month, plus a second sewing pattern or Vintage by Gertie magazine issue every single month around the 15th. And you join the most creative and fun sewing community around!

Specific benefits at the Glamour Circle tier include:

• A vintage-inspired sewing pattern on the first day of every month
• A companion sew-along tutorial video for that pattern
• In addition to the monthly pattern, you’ll receive 8 additional patterns or digital projects throughout the year
• Four issues of Vintage by Gertie, our fashion, sewing, and lifestyle magazine
• Access to the entire archive of Glamour Circle patterns and videos!
• A monthly live Crowdcast with Gertie where she shares the history and inspiration behind that month’s pattern
• Access to our community hub on Discord to post your projects, ask for advice, and chat with other members
• One Charm Pattern for free randomly every calendar year (Gertie’s choice)

To view all of the patterns in the Glamour Circle archive, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability = All Glamour Circle Patterns.”

Yes, absolutely! Unlike other monthly sewing memberships, when you are a Charm patron, you get access to the entire archive of sewing patterns available to your tier.

To view all of the membership patterns available at each tier, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability.”

Click here to join the membership on Patreon. There is no long term commitment required, and you can cancel at any time.