Patterns

I have made patterns for several sweet bags found in museum collections. I have distributed these patterns in the sweet bag classes I have taught at University. Some are fairly accurate. Some are starting points for you in your own recreation. Quite often, as seen in the pin cushion recreation, making a pattern from a photograph is a two step process. The first step is to get the basic design. The second step is to clean up the design and “un-squash” it.

Some of my patterns are finished and ready to use. Others require more work. They are for personal use only, of course. Please credit me in your documentation if you use them.

You may also use these patterns if you are teaching a class that you are giving for free.

And, if you make a sweet bag or pin cushion, I’d love to see a photo! Enjoy!

Inspired by V&A 316&A-1898

Inspired by V&A T.87 1935

Inspired by Museum of Fine Arts, Boston 38.1229

Inspired by Museum of Fine Arts, Boston 38.1344

Inspired by Museum of Fine Arts, Boston 43.1077

Inspired by Museum of Fine Arts, Boston 43.1075

Inspired by British Library c194c27

Halloween Pin Cushion inspired by V&A T138-1981. This pattern is found on an unfinished blackwork sleeve.

Pin Cushion inspired by V&A T138-1981 found on page 308 of Queen Elizabeth’s Wardrobe Unlock’d

Pin cushion inspired by V&A T.52A&-1954

Pin cushion inspired by V&A 316&A-1898

Just for fun, my Atlantian Spike Sweet Bag. It’s a totally non-period sweet bag, but I think it’s cute!