Sheets of patterns are in an envelope inside the front cover, each sheet is doubled sided.
Gertie's Modern Guides Series
This series guides readers through the intricate world of modern living and design with humor and practical advice. Each installment tackles a different aspect, from home maintenance to navigating domestic relationships. It's a handbook for anyone looking to streamline and enhance their home and daily life. The books offer concise and witty insights into managing the challenges of contemporary existence.



Recommended Reading Order
Gertie Sews Vintage Casual
- 223 pages
- 8 hours of reading
The mid-20th century was an amazing time for American women’s fashion! Following the war, women started looking to American designers rather than French couture houses for inspiration and to demand clothing they could move in, even play in. In this follow-up to Gertie’s New Book for Better Sewing , Gretchen “Gertie” Hirsch celebrates the classic casual styles that icons like Katharine Hepburn, Audrey Hepburn, and Rosie the Riveter made famous—think wide-legged trousers, fitted capri pants, beach rompers, shorts, knit tops, jeans, and day dresses. In Part I, Hirsch introduces key techniques for sportswear construction—from working with knit fabrics to the intricacies of pant-making—and in Part II, she showcases a 30-plus-piece vintage-inspired casual wardrobe.
Gertie Sews Jiffy Dresses
- 144 pages
- 6 hours of reading
In the '50s and '60s, Simplicity released their popular line of Jiffy sewing patterns, which had minimal pattern pieces and simple constructions, yet were chic enough for fashion-conscious customers. This approach appeals now more than ever as stylish women are continuously looking for ways to fit their love of sewing into busy lives filled with family, work, school, and countless other obligations.Gertie Sews Jiffy Dresses is Gretchen Hirsch's modern reinvention of this simple idea, focusing on easily mastered sewing skills, minimal pattern pieces, and fabulous designs. And the best part? Readers will end up with a sparkling wardrobe of easy-to-wear, fun-to-style dresses that will fill busy modern lives with retro charm.