Simplicity was founded in 1927 by James Shapiro. Their patterns have been manufactured in Niles, MI since 1931. In the 1940′s, they embarked on a major sewing education program, with traveling representatives, fashion shows, educational books and literature, making them a key source for learning to sew, and set the foundation for how sewing it taught today. In the mid-1980′s, they acquired New Looks, an English pattern company.
Angela’s Simplicity review: I like Simplicity patterns. They are easy patterns to use, and over the years, I have had little to no trouble using them. I like the way their patterns are folded in their sleeves, as well. Unlike McCall (and her sister companies Butterick and Vogue), Simplicity patterns are folded neatly, allowing the user to easily refold them on the neat creases and slip them appropriately back in their sleeves – love this! The only thing I wish Simplicity would do is offer more historical costume patterns like they used to – over the last few years, they have offered little in the way of new history inspired patterns.
Tonia’s Simplicity review: Simplicity have been one of my favorite commercial pattern companies for years. Not only do they offer a variety of stylish patterns, but over the years they have had inspiring costume patterns. And, as Angie pointed out, they fold like a dream, allowing you to store the pattern back into the envelope with ease. My only complaint is that, of late, their historically inspired costume patterns has left much to be desired.
Pattern Reviews (in order by pattern number)
2638- It’s So Easy - Womens Sundress
2843 – Girls Old West Outfit
2895 – Mens Old West Outfit
3623 - Womens Celtic Outfit
3727 - Womens Civil War Dress
4055 - Womens Regency Dress
4923 - Mens 18th Century/Pirate Outfit
5726 – Womens Civil War Undergarments (OOP)
7756 – Womens Renaissance Outfit (OOP)
8192 - Womens Medieval Dress (OOP)
8313 - Childrens Medieval Costumes (OOP)
8735 - Womens Renaissance Outfit (OOP)
9225 - Womens Regency Dress (OOP)
