Yesterday I was delighted to get an email from Lois Porter (Mueller) of Wooden Porch Books. I don’t expect that many of you know her but she ran a mail-order business selling unique and vintage pattern making and sewing books. She also sold vintage books on costumes, hats, shoes, you name it and at very reasonable prices. I’d heard that she’d retired so I couldn’t find her -until yesterday. I’m glad I have a blog, that’s how she found me. I’m still waiting to hear back from her but it seems she may have some books to sell. Specifically, she mentioned the Simons book, Designing Men’s and Young Men’s Overcoats copyright 1931. I love this book. I mentioned it in my book on pg 168 in reference to the correct shaping of armholes. The long and short of it is, she has some of these books available if you want one. I do know that these are brand new (although printed in 1931) so their condition is impeccable. I don’t know what she wants for them but I remember the price as being very modest. There’s a 1916 edition of this on Amazon but that one only has 47 pgs. This edition (1931) has 307 pgs. I’ll keep you posted once I hear back from her.
Sign me up! I’m passionate about books until I move again. Thanks for the recommendation on Vionnet. Absolutely fabulous!
Kathleen, now you have me collecting pattern drafting books. They really are good reading! I too would be interested.
I’d like to hear about these too. I’m determined to understand the drafting of that armhole. I just love stashes like this!
I’m thrilled to find what happened to Lois! I’ve purchased from her in the past, but had recently been unable to find her online.
This one is already in my collection, but would love to know if she has any of his other books available. I have some gaps.
I heard back from Lois! She’s off to Seattle and had just dropped off a note before she went. I’ll be expecting more from her when she gets back. I think she’ll be glad to know people are still interested in these books.
Imo, Lois is a woman worth interviewing for posterity. I think she’s probably the best expert on vintage books of this category in North America. I know most of you have no idea who she is but she’s a treasure.
Oh yes, I’d love to have this book. I do hope we can get to know Lois, too.
I am interested in the book, too.
Hi Kathleen,
I know that this is a very old posting, but are there any of these books still available? I am almost finished reading your book. I have to say that it is amazing!
Thanks,
Sandy
My suggestion is to search on the internet. After that contact in March 2006, I never heard from Lois again :(.
Hi,
Was reading your book and decided to check the Net for the book, but was brought back here..too bad you did not see Lois again.