Early 1940's—Ladies' Garment Cutting and Making
by F. R. Morris

Preface to Third Edition

THE presentation of the third edition of LADIES' GARMENT CUTTING AND MAKING establishes the work as the most successful of all independent cutting and tailoring treatises.

There has always been a demand for this work that has outstripped the publisher's capacity to supply, and this can only be explained by the fact that within its pages readers are given the benefit of knowledge and experience that have withstood the test of time.

It has been most gratifying to the author to receive so many letters of appreciation of its contents, to hear of technical and trade schools where the system is taught from the book, and to hear it referred to as the "Encyclopædia of the Ladies' Tailoring Trade."

Little was it suspected in 1935 when the first edition was published that it would become a classic in the trade. But that is undoubtedly so and, whilst styling has changed, the basic principles laid down are still applicable to pattern cutting to-day. In 1935 there was a dearth of technical knowledge on the ladies' tailoring trade and the work more than adequately met the needs of practitioners. But it would have enjoyed only a temporary success if the subject-matter had been too theoretical and out of touch with the needs of the trade. This was not so, however, and to-day there is still an active and indeed increasing demand for it.

In this third edition there is much that could not be revised or improved upon. The style factor was the only one where revision was called for; but style is of a transitory nature and the principles of pattern cutting contained in this work are adaptable to all changes of styling, and it could hardly be drastically revised on that score alone. One could revise methods of making, but here again they are a matter for individuals and the readers of this work will all have their own methods.

I have therefore included a brief Appendix which describes the necessary adjustments to the basis systems for modern outlines, together with many new illustrations of present-day styles.

In conclusion, may I tender to past and present readers my thanks for their appreciation, and to all future readers my best wishes for the success that I hope I may assist them to achieve.

F. R. M.