Bestselling sewing author Gretchen Hirsch returns to her roots with a fresh look at fashion classics—how they were made then, and how modern day sewists can re-create them now—in Gertie’s Charmed Sewing Studio.

The first half of the book is a journey through pattern and couture sewing techniques and iconic designs. Gretchen combines a bounty of sketches, historic images, process photos, and clear instructions to create an irresistible sewing guide and lookbook for the vintage fashion enthusiast. It’s also a peek into the Charm studio, where all the magic happens!

In the second half, Gretchen deconstructs three intricate garments, the Madeleine Dress, the Camille Sheath, and the Lillian Jacket. Focusing on just three designs offers a sewing and design foundation showcasing the inspiration behind each of these gorgeous patterns. Each garment (two dresses and a jacket) is shown with detailed instructions and links to download and print full-size patterns in sizes 2-20 and 18-34, with A-H cup sizes. You can print the patterns at home, or through Charm’s partnership with The Plotted Pattern.

Featured garments:
The Structured Tropical Dress (Lamour Dress)
The Rita Blouse
The Night and Day Dress
The Lilli Ann-Style Princess Coat
The Rose Dressing Gown
The Tropical Mermaid Gown (Bryant Gown)
The Marilyn Jeans
The Rose Marie Reid Swimsuit (Esther Swimsuit)
The Cummerbund Bubble Dress (Betty Dress)

Plus PDF patterns for:
The Madeleine Dress, the Camille Sheath, and the Lillian Jacket