Feature Friday: Scroop Patterns

What is Scroop, you ask? Technically, it’s the satisfying rustling sound that silk taffeta makes, but more relevant to this article, it is the name of this month’s featured business: Scroop Patterns!

According to founder Leimomi Oakes, Scroop Patterns was inspired by the idea of “taking something wonderful and adding just a little bit extra to make it even more special and interesting.” And with patterns ranging from chic modern wardrobe staples to more advanced 18th century garments, you are sure to find something to inspire your next project.

Originally, the company started selling modern PDF patterns but has slowing transitioned into a more historically focused brand. Leimomi added:

“Scroop started out as a primarily modern-garment pattern line as an offshoot from my work as a sewing teacher. Being based in New Zealand, where shipping is expensive and takes a long time, it was hard to source interesting sewing patterns with accurate sizing and good instructions in a wide size range. People liked my modern patterns, but I was mostly known as a historical costumer from my blog, so I received a constant stream of requests for patterns based on the costumes I made. Today Scroop is a primarily historical pattern line, although I still issue the occasional everyday garment pattern when I design something for myself that enough other people want.”

If you are looking for a quick, easy to make accessory for your next event, one their newly released mantle patterns would be perfect! Spanning from 1740 to 1810, each design is based on period images and extant 18th and 19th century garments. These designs are part of their collaboration with past feature Virgil’s Fine Goods, and include detailed instructions on how to make the mantle using historical methods, as well as additional historical research about the fabrics and techniques used.

You can buy each pattern individually or in a combined bundle.

More patterns in this line also include the Angelica Gown and the Amalia Jacket, so you can create a full 18th century wardrobe head to toe.

If you are looking for a simpler project to add to your modern closet, both the Miramar Dress and Robin Dress would make lovely spring projects.

Or if you are still freezing in the winter weather (or prepping for the coming fall), the Mahina Cardigan looks extra cozy!

But these are just a handful of Scroop’s modern and historical offerings! They also have Edwardian separates, Georgian underwear, and a variety of modern patterns, including skirts and blouses.

When asked about her creative process, Leimomi had a surprising answer:

“The way I approach patternmaking is actually much more analytical and research based then creative based. Most Scroop Patterns either start off as something I or a good friend wants in our wardrobe, or because I notice a gap in the pattern market that really needs filling. There's an initial design, and then, particularly for historical patterns, a LOT of research and testing.  

What are all the different ways you can make this item? How easy or hard are the different techniques, and how do they affect the outcome? If it's historical, how often do particular design features show up? What's the actual date range for this item based on available primary source material? Sometimes this research turns up really interesting things that challenge widely held pre-conceptions.”

You can find Scroop’s full PDF pattern catalogue on their website, scrooppatterns.com, or you can buy physical paper copies of their patterns from their US-based partner, Virgil’s Fine Goods.

For all the latest news and pattern releases, you can find them on Facebook and on Instagram @scrooppatterns.

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