Coming Back in 2026 - Manual for 18th Century Women's Shifts

Coming Back in 2026 - Manual for 18th Century Women's ShiftsCurrently Unavailable. We hope to have an updated version back in print in 2026! Email us to be notified. Includes all the information you need to create an historically accurate 18th century shift by hand. Details and diagrams on construction and fit will walk you through every step of the process. Included are three different full size paper neckline templates. In the manual you will find: Step by step directions with pictures and diagrams Pictures

Currently Unavailable. We hope to have an updated version back in print in 2026! Email us to be notified. 

Includes all the information you need to create an historically accurate 18th century shift by hand. Details and diagrams on construction and fit will walk you through every step of the process. Included are three different full size paper neckline templates. 

In the manual you will find:

• Step by step directions with pictures and diagrams
• Pictures of details from original shifts
• Primary Source research
• Full size neckline templates (we include 3 different choices)
• Directions on how to make and attach ruffles
• Fitting Instructions
• A variety of construction details from extant shifts
• Size charts for all the pieces
• Directions on how to do beautiful gathers and wristband stitching
• Pleating the sleeves, a detail often depicted in portraits and seldom practiced. 

Making a shift easier to sew are good needles and good thread.  Follow the links to our European Linen thread and John James Needles.  The 80/3 thread is a great all purpose thread to have on hand. We are also carry a complete kit with all that you need including the manual, fabric and thread. (Currently out of stock.)

PATTERN USAGE AGREEMENT
By purchasing this pattern you agree to the following terms of use:

~At the Sign of the Golden Scissors/Larkin & Smith Patterns and kits are exclusively for private, non-commercial use by the buyer
~At the Sign of the Golden Scissors/Larkin & Smith Patterns and kits may be used for commission pieces if the individual pattern is owned by the client.
~Commercial Production of At the Sign of the Golden Scissors/Larkin & Smith Patterns and kits are strictly prohibited.
~Please see our full Pattern Use Policy for more details.

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