Wearing History paper pattern Phyllis- WWII 1940s Air Raid Suit or Coverall Pattern

original product information by Wearing History

Named after my grandmother’s cousin who was a factory war worker during WWII, the Phyllis Air Raid Suit is a Wearing History Resto-vival pattern based on a rare original extant pattern from the 1940’s.  These were also called “Siren Suits”.

Includes size 30″ bust through 42″ bust, all in the same packet.

The original description reads:

“A well-fitted one piece air raid suit or coverall that’s easy to slip into.  You’ll find it a most suitable costume for defense work and outdoor activity.”

Named after my grandmother’s cousin who was a factory war worker during WWII, the Phyllis Air Raid Suit is a Wearing History Resto-vival pattern based on a rare original extant pattern from the 1940’s.  These were also called “Siren Suits”.

Includes size 30″ bust through 42″ bust, all in the same packet.

The original description reads:

“A well-fitted one piece air raid suit or coverall that’s easy to slip into.  You’ll find it a most suitable costume for defense work and outdoor activity.”

I offer photo tutorials on this site to aid in construction! With patience, and the use of the photo tutorials, an intermediate sewist may attempt this pattern. Although this may not seem difficult at first glance, this pattern is very challenging, even for experienced sewists.  It uses a lot of menswear techniques like flat felled seams and button plackets.  It also has buttons up both sides of the pants, a hidden button placket at back (drop seat!), and buttons up the front.  Although we think this is a necessary pattern for re-enacting and enthusiast’s needs, please be forewarned that it is extremely challenging and time costuming.  Don’t expect to make it a few days before an event. I will be adding photo tutorials to my blog to help with the challenging parts of construction.

About Wearing History Resto-Vival™ Patterns

Resto-Vival™ Patterns are original historic patterns that have been restored and revived.  Original patterns are usually available only in single sizes, precut from tissue paper and totally unprinted, with details like grainlines and darts indicated only by small perforations.  Resto-Vival™ patterns are printed on sturdy bond paper instead of tissue and clearly marked with drawn and labeled markings.  These markings aid the modern sewer in understanding the markings of the original pattern and the construction of the garment.  Resto-Vival™ patterns follow the period shapes of the original patterns, maintaining the historical accuracy of the completed garment.  Original period instructions are included. These instructions are text only (unless otherwise noted) and fairly minimal, especially compared to instructions for modern patterns.  At least an intermediate knowledge of dressmaking and a good familiarity with pattern construction is suggested.  You may choose to have a modern or period sewing book handy to help with basic construction methods that the pattern instructions do not cover in detail.  Also, fitting a muslin mockup is strongly recommended, as all garments were meant to be worn over period foundation garments or corsetry.

Named after my grandmother’s cousin who was a factory war worker during WWII, the Phyllis Air Raid Suit is a Wearing History Resto-vival pattern based on a rare original extant pattern from the 1940’s.  These were also called “Siren Suits”.

Includes size 30″ bust through 42″ bust, all in the same packet.

The original description reads:

“A well-fitted one piece air raid suit or coverall that’s easy to slip into.  You’ll find it a most suitable costume for defense work and outdoor activity.”

I offer photo tutorials on this site to aid in construction! With patience, and the use of the photo tutorials, an intermediate sewist may attempt this pattern. Although this may not seem difficult at first glance, this pattern is very challenging, even for experienced sewists.  It uses a lot of menswear techniques like flat felled seams and button plackets.  It also has buttons up both sides of the pants, a hidden button placket at back (drop seat!), and buttons up the front.  Although we think this is a necessary pattern for re-enacting and enthusiast’s needs, please be forewarned that it is extremely challenging and time costuming.  Don’t expect to make it a few days before an event. I will be adding photo tutorials to my blog to help with the challenging parts of construction.

About Wearing History Resto-Vival™ Patterns

Resto-Vival™ Patterns are original historic patterns that have been restored and revived.  Original patterns are usually available only in single sizes, precut from tissue paper and totally unprinted, with details like grainlines and darts indicated only by small perforations.  Resto-Vival™ patterns are printed on sturdy bond paper instead of tissue and clearly marked with drawn and labeled markings.  These markings aid the modern sewer in understanding the markings of the original pattern and the construction of the garment.  Resto-Vival™ patterns follow the period shapes of the original patterns, maintaining the historical accuracy of the completed garment.  Original period instructions are included. These instructions are text only (unless otherwise noted) and fairly minimal, especially compared to instructions for modern patterns.  At least an intermediate knowledge of dressmaking and a good familiarity with pattern construction is suggested.  You may choose to have a modern or period sewing book handy to help with basic construction methods that the pattern instructions do not cover in detail.  Also, fitting a muslin mockup is strongly recommended, as all garments were meant to be worn over period foundation garments or corsetry.

 With patience, and the use of the photo tutorials, an intermediate sewist may attempt this pattern. Although this may not seem difficult at first glance, this pattern is very challenging, even for experienced sewists.  It uses a lot of menswear techniques like flat felled seams and button plackets.  It also has buttons up both sides of the pants, a hidden button placket at back (drop seat!), and buttons up the front.  Although we think this is a necessary pattern for re-enacting and enthusiast’s needs, please be forewarned that it is extremely challenging and time costuming.  Don’t expect to make it a few days before an event. I will be adding photo tutorials to my blog to help with the challenging parts of construction.

About Wearing History Resto-Vival™ Patterns

Resto-Vival™ Patterns are original historic patterns that have been restored and revived.  Original patterns are usually available only in single sizes, precut from tissue paper and totally unprinted, with details like grainlines and darts indicated only by small perforations.  Resto-Vival™ patterns are printed on sturdy bond paper instead of tissue and clearly marked with drawn and labeled markings.  These markings aid the modern sewer in understanding the markings of the original pattern and the construction of the garment.  Resto-Vival™ patterns follow the period shapes of the original patterns, maintaining the historical accuracy of the completed garment.  Original period instructions are included. These instructions are text only (unless otherwise noted) and fairly minimal, especially compared to instructions for modern patterns.  At least an intermediate knowledge of dressmaking and a good familiarity with pattern construction is suggested.  You may choose to have a modern or period sewing book handy to help with basic construction methods that the pattern instructions do not cover in detail.  Also, fitting a muslin mockup is strongly recommended, as all garments were meant to be worn over period foundation garments or corsetry.