1790s Upper Petticoat Sewing Pattern – Historical 18th Century Undergarment | Past Patterns 0037
$10.50 – $21.00
Recreate history with our 1790s Upper Petticoat pattern, meticulously researched and sized for modern sewers. Available in print or instant download formats.
Get Free Shipping
On all US Orders over $50!
1790s Upper Petticoat Sewing Pattern – Historical 18th Century Undergarment | Past Patterns 0037
$10.50 – $21.00
Recreate history with our 1790s Upper Petticoat pattern, meticulously researched and sized for modern sewers. Available in print or instant download formats.
Get Free Shipping
On all US Orders over $50!
All of our patterns tell a story.
Why Choose This Pattern?
Experience Historical Accuracy with Our 1790s Upper Petticoat Sewing Pattern
This 1790s Upper Petticoat sewing pattern combines meticulous historical research with modern sizing for an authentic period garment that's accessible to seamstresses of all skill levels. Created from an original in the prestigious Susan Greene Costume Collection at the Genesee Country Village and Museum in Mumford, NY, this pattern offers a window into late 18th-century women's fashion.
A Thoroughly Researched 1790s Upper Petticoat Design
The 1790s Upper Petticoat sewing pattern was developed through careful study of an authentic early nineteenth-century petticoat that showed evidence of having been refashioned. Historical clues revealed that the original garment had been altered by letting out the tuck and creating gores to accommodate the fuller silhouette of the 1820s. This fascinating evolution of the garment provides valuable insights into how clothing was adapted and reused during this period.
Our research team identified that all classes of society, on both sides of the Atlantic, could have worn strapped upper petticoats during the 1790s. These versatile garments were practical, economical, and aligned with the rising waistlines that characterized the fashion transition happening during this era.
What's Included in Your 1790s Upper Petticoat Sewing Pattern
Each 1790s Upper Petticoat sewing pattern package comes with:
- Professional artwork on the front cover
- Comprehensive fabric and sizing charts
- Detailed historical notes on the development of the pattern
- Information about era-appropriate stitches
- Multiple fabric layout guides for different sizes
- Well-tested, written, and illustrated construction instructions
- Computer-generated pattern sheet (1 sheet, 36"x70")
Specifications and Materials for Your 1790s Upper Petticoat
The 1790s Upper Petticoat sewing pattern includes both Views A & B with sizing that accommodates a wide range of measurements:
- Sizes 08-26 (Bust 32½" - 48", Waist 24½" - 40", Hips 27" - 42½")
- Fabric requirements vary by size and original fabric width:
- Sizes 08-14 of original fabric width of 26" - 5¾ yards
- Sizes 16-20 of original fabric width of 32" or 36" - 5¾ yards
- Sizes 22-26 of original fabric width of 45" - 6⅛ yards
For a historically accurate reproduction, consider using a tightly woven plain weave medium-weight cotton similar to nankeen (a natural-colored yellowish-brown cotton). The original petticoat in the collection used this fabric, with the pocket bag made from a lighter-weight brown cotton.
Skill Level and Construction
This 1790s Upper Petticoat pattern is suitable for intermediate sewers who have basic knowledge of hand-sewing techniques. The construction involves straight seams, gathering, and simple finishing techniques typical of the period. The total number of pattern pieces is minimal, making this an approachable historical project even for those new to period sewing. Time-period appropriate hand-sewing techniques are explained in the instructions, though modern machine stitching can be used for non-visible seams if preferred.
Digital Download Option Now Available
Prefer a digital download? We now offer this 1790s Upper Petticoat pattern in downloadable format. The digital version includes all the same historical documentation, illustrations, and pattern pieces as our printed version, with added benefits:
- Immediate access - start your project within minutes of purchase
- Multiple printing formats (A0, A4, 8.5x11, 36") to suit your needs
- Unlimited reprints - perfect for pattern adjustments or replacements
- Convenient storage - save space in your sewing area
- No shipping costs or delays
The downloadable 1790s Upper Petticoat pattern comes as a set of PDF files optimized for different printing needs. You'll receive files for standard home printing (8.5"x 11" or A4), large format printing (36" wide or A0), and complete instructions.
Printing Instructions:
- For home printing (8.5"x 11" or A4): Print at 100% scale, no scaling. Assembly guide included.
- For large format printing (36" or A0): Take the file to a print shop that offers architectural or engineering printing services.
Create an authentic piece of history with our meticulously researched 1790s Upper Petticoat pattern. Whether you're a historical reenactor, costume designer, or sewing enthusiast interested in historical garments, this pattern offers both historical accuracy and practical wearability. Order today and step back into the elegant simplicity of 18th-century fashion! Complete your Federalist era costume with our other 1790s garments!
For more insight into period-appropriate fabrics, look to Historical Fabric Types from the 18th Century, which discusses common materials used during this era.
Original Content by Past Patterns 1979-2025. All rights reserved.
Additional information
| Weight | 8 oz |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 13 × 10 × 3 in |
| Version | Printed Pattern, Pattern Download |
Sizing Information
(Metric size sheet opens as a PDF in a new browser tab)
Preferred Vendors
Past Patterns works with vendors from all over the world to help us replicate the amazing articles of clothing. Now you can too!
Visit our preferred vendors page to order directly from some of our top recommended suppliers.
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FAQ's
(Frequently asked questions)
Why are both Trowsers and Trousers listed on site?
Over the last 200 years, much like the human body, our style of language has changed. For vintage patterns, we attempt to use the language of the day where possible.
Can you grade (edit) a Vintage Revival pattern for my size?
please contact us with the specific pattern number and the specifications you require. We have staff available for this for an additional fee.
What sizes do Past Patterns patterns come in?
Our patterns, with some exceptions, are manufactured in sizes 8 through 26 for women and sizes 34 through 54 for men. Most patterns are multi-sized. For a complete listing of measurements in inches see the size chart.
Do you have vintage patterns (manufactured prior to 1950) that you want to sell?
we are always on the lookout for original, American designed, vintage patterns especially for categories outside of current items. We are interested if you have 1 pattern or 1000 patterns. Give us a call to discuss.
Why is my pattern size different from my off the rack dress size?
We use the U. S. Board of Standard Measurements to size our patterns. The ready made clothing manufacturers have their own set of sizes developed from their own statistics. For a complete listing of measurements in inches see the size chart.
How are the patterns packaged?
We package our patterns in two forms: Bond Paper and Tissue. Except for the Tissue patterns, each is slipped into a reusable plastic sleeve. Many contain documentation in the form of Historical Notes or the printer ie., Butterick. Because the patterns are printed in house to order, they can take from three to seven days. Tissue patterns, which are printed out of house, are available to ship immediately.
What does a Corset Kit contain in addition to the Corset pattern?
In addition to the pattern, the kits contain everything you need to make the corset except the thread. The kits contain, according to their type, fabric and lining, stays, clasp or busk board, back lacing, tape for finishing the edges, trim lace, ribbon, leather, tin stock, waist tape, punch and setter, eyelets, marking pencils, cording, reed and a loop turner.
Need a pattern in your language?
we can translate our instructions into just about any language
Have an old and incomplete Past Patterns item. What can I do?
The answer depends on if the pattern is still in production or not. If it is, please mail us the old pattern and we will ship you a copy of the latest pattern for a minimal fee along with normal shipping charges. If the item is no longer in production, we would need to know exactly what you have to determine the best course of action to help you.
What is the difference between a Past Patterns original pattern and a Vintage Revival pattern?
The Past Patterns originals were designed in house and based upon the research, disassembly and time of Saundra Ros Altman. These designs come from finds all over the United States reaching from San Diego, California to the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, DC. She created the initial patterns, the sizing charts and the instruction content. Many of the these patterns are multi-sized or are available in various sizes. For the most part, these designs are done taking into account the modern human body's shape, height and weight. The Vintage Revival patterns are traces or copies of an old, mass produced pattern; the first mass produced patterns came out in the 1850s. For the most part, you get exactly what came in the original package; in some cases, Saundra has appended historical notes to the instructions. The Vintage Revivals patterns, being copies of the originals, generally only come in one size and are based upon the size and shape of the human body from the era the pattern came from.
What software do you use to create patterns?
We utilize PW Studio for our designs. Isabelle Lott, a contributor over the years to Past Patterns, is the owner of the company and will be happy to answer an software related questions you have. Her software is available for licensing.
What measurements do I need to know to order a Corset Kit?
The bust and back length. The back length is measured from the prominent bone at the base of the neck to the natural waistline.
Where can I see the appropriate clothing fabrics for the 18th and 19th centuries?
You can see 1740 through 1940 fabrics in a book titled "Textile Designs" by Susan Meller and Joost Elffers. The subtitle states, "Two Hundred Years of European and American Patterns for Printed Fabric by Motif, Style, Color, Layout and Period and 1,823 Illustration in Color." What they don't say is that 90% of the swatches pictured are life size. The ISBN is 0-8109-3853-7. A second book is Wearable Prints, 1740-1860, History, Materials, and Mechanics by Susan W. Greene. The ISBN is 978-1-60635-124-6. Great books! Order it from your local library that has interlibrary loan capability if you cannot afford the price. There are now many sources for appropriate fabric through the Internet.
Where can I find antique patterns to purchase?
On the Internet try: "Patterns from the Past."
Need a pattern tomorrow?
we do offer expedited domestic shipping for extra fees. We can also expeditie international shipments but delivery dates overseas cannot be promised.
Becoming a Wholesalers of our patterns
We offer Wholesalers significant discounts that will allow both your and our businesses to flourish.
Why don't we sell PDFs of our patterns - First due to piracy. We have spent over 40 years creating and tracing these patterns along with researching them. We print and ship all of our patterns ourselves. If we started sending out PDFs, in no time, copies of our Intellectual Property would be all over the internet and we would be out of business. Second, some of our patterns are constantly being updated. We want our clients to get the BEST POSSIBLE version of our products.
