Summary

Booklet of advice and patterns for making 'New Clothes from Old', published by the Commonwealth Rationing Commission in 1942, during World War II. It describes ways of using old clothes to make new ones and emphasises value of this work.

Inside the cover is hand-written in pencil : 'Emily Macpherson [sic] College Diploma Needlecraft Students 1942'. The models shown in the book were girls in the Diploma of Needlework Class at Emily McPherson College of Domestic Economy in 1942.

The booklet invites readers to 'Shut your eyes and think of war-time Australia for a moment. Think of ships unloading guns and 'planes and tanks instead of peace-time clothing...hundreds of thousands of men and women making munitions instead of luxury goods...dwindling supplies of clothing in retail stores. Do you get the picture?...Maybe your coupons don't go as far as you thought they would. Maybe you're wondering just how you're going to get over the rationing year. Well, this is where WE CAN HELP YOU...Those outdated coats and frocks you've got stowed away somewhere - wouldn't you like to be able to turn them into smart outfits for yourself and the children? WELL, START RIGHT NOW. Ransack those drawers and cupboards for discarded clothing. Unpick the seams and cut yourself a new garment. Go on. Don't be afraid to start.'

Physical Description

Book, 20 pages including cover, illustrated with drawings and photographs. Printed in brown and green. Secured at the spine with two staples.

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