How to Shop For Vintage Sewing Patterns at the Thrift Store

You can find a lot of amazing “finds” at the thrift store. I do most of my kitchen, decor, and book shopping there. It’s also a great place to pick up well-loved hobbies, for a great price. When I first started sewing I couldn’t believe how expensive it was.

I remember begging my mom to take me to JoAnn’s only to leave disappointed in how much everything was. Which is when I learned about the thrift store. So, here’s How to Shop For Vintage Sewing Patterns at the Thrift Store… and actually love/use them.

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How to Shop For Vintage Sewing Patterns at the Thrift Store

To start, the thrift store isn’t just for finding vintage patterns. I have found some great deals on fabric, sewing needles, buttons, and thread there too. Everything I could possibly want to my lovely garage sale 1960s Kenmore machine.

Let’s be honest. Sometimes, old is just better. In this case, vintage patterns are in. Right now, at this moment in time, 90s vintage patterns are in.

Think – Practical Magic. The Babysitters Club! Drive me Crazy!

Think – Long-skirted dresses with a collar. Knee-length pencil skirts with pockets. All with a long boho cardigan over it.

How to Shop For Vintage Sewing Patterns at the Thrift Store

Step one: Go to the thrift store

Bear in mind, you may need to go to a few thrift stores to find what you’re looking for. A word from the wise, if you’re looking for a vintage pattern from before 1980, they may be tough to find at a Goodwill. The issue with Goodwill is that they know what they have. Some vintage patterns are worth some money.

I’m talking about the 1930s-1970s patterns. For those, you’re best off looking at Etsy, eBay, or even goodwill online auctions. Especially if you’re looking for an exact pattern.

If you’re lucky to find them at a Goodwill, don’t be shocked at the price. Again, they know what they have and they’ll ask for it.

Step Two: Check the pattern size

Vintage patterns have unique pattern sizes. Anything before the 1980s is sold by size. As in, there is only one size in the pattern package. So you want to check your measurements and sizing to be 100% certain it’s going to fit you.

The alternative is buying the pattern a few sizes smaller or bigger and altering the pattern to fit you. If you’re new at sewing, this will be challenging but it’s not impossible.

Step Three: Make sure the instructions and all the pieces are there

Oh gosh, this is a rookie move! Please, I beg you, check the pattern to make sure everything you need is in there. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve found a pattern and taken it home, only to discover there’s a rogue piece from another pattern OR it’s missing half the instructions!

It’s the worst. Think of a sewing pattern like a puzzle. There’s nothing worse than missing the last piece!

Step Four: Don’t just buy it to buy it

If you’re a pattern collector, sure. Buy all the patterns you want.

However, if you’re creating a me-made wardrobe, really consider the pattern before picking it up. I’ve had patterns in my stash for 20 years. Patterns I’ve never even touched! (Note to self, I should sell those.)

What I want you to do is look at the pattern and think about your fabric stash.

Ask yourself:

Is there fabric I have to make the pattern?
Can I buy fabric to make it?
WILL I buy the fabric to make it?
Is this going to sit in my sewing cupboard for 20 years?
Do I even like this pattern?

If any of these questions ended in a “no”, then move along! That pattern is not for you. And that’s okay.

Step Five: Is the price right?

This is only something you can answer for yourself. Personally, I will not pay over $3.00 at the thrift store. The most recent pattern I purchased was .55¢ because I had a 20% off coupon at Savers (aka Value Village).

This pattern had everything I was looking for. In fact, I bought a dress just like the pattern at a thrift store over 4 years ago and I wear it all year round. So, I know for a fact I will make it and cherish it.

That’s it, friends! Five lovely tips on How to Shop For Vintage Sewing Patterns at the Thrift Store. I hope you found this post helpful.

When I first started buying patterns at the thrift store, it was overwhelming. A deal is a deal until it’s unused. Keep that in the back of your mind while you’re shopping and you’ll be just fine.

What’s the best sewing pattern you’ve found at a thrift shop?