Vintage Pattern Lending Library 1912 Titanic Project

Friends, I don't know how many of you have heard about the VPLL 1912 Titanic Project just yet (if you haven't yet, check out the latest issue of Threads--page 76--for a brilliant article about the project), but it's pretty amazing. Janyce Hill, the proprietress of the Vintage Pattern Lending Library, is transcribing a series of La Mode Illustree (French sewing/ladies magazines) from 1912 and making patterns available to participants who are acting as pattern testers. I've volunteered my time as both a pattern tester as well as an administrator and I have to say, this project is AMAZING. If you're a big fan of sewing up vintage patterns and are inspired by such shows as Downton Abbey, this is an opportunity worth looking into. I mean seriously, look at some of the available patterns: 

Ladie's Travel Suit #E1002

Ladie's Blouse #E0335

Ladie's Skirt #E0200

And this is just a small fraction of what's available! Currently, Janyce has transcribed 14 different patterns, include some children's patterns. And she's not done, folks. This project goes on for THE ENTIRE YEAR. 

The first pattern I've requested (and have yet to complete--bad Tina!) is the Ladie's Wrap. Some other participants made GORGEOUS renditions of this garment and I'm dying to add my version to theirs. However, I've been struggling a bit with how to re-size this pattern for a more ample bosom. (I'm new to pattern grading/have never attempted to grade a pattern...)

Ladie's Wrap #E0291

Based on the other versions of this, I feel like this can be updated via fabric and trims to accommodate a more modern look. It has a sort of Asian flair that I think would work really well with few of the brocades I brought back from India. And wouldn't it look equally cute over jeans or a fancy dress?

For more information about the VPLL 1912 Titanic Project, click here.