Ding Dong School

When I was a wee tot the tv programs that I watched the most were those that had real kids in them. Romper Room was both fun and educational. Miss Dorothy was the teacher/mom and real life lessons were taught in her tv classroom. Romper Room first aired in 1953. Of course, I watched it much later since I was not born until 1957. But I remember "Miss Dorothy", the first Romper Room hostess.

Romper Room Archives kptv

My husband is a few years older than me and was too "mature" to appreciate Romper Room when it aired. He remembers Ding Dong School with Miss Frances.

Ding Dong School

Miss Frances also spoke to the television audience which was mainly preschool children. She taught children how to do simple tasks around the house to help themselves and to help mom. Ding Dong School aired from 1952 until 1965 when it was cancelled and replaced with The Price is Right. Watch this early 1950's episode.

Woman's Home Companion Magazine published this 1954 interview with Miss Frances by Anna W. M. Wolf on "How to Play with Your Children".

Woman's Home Companion September 1954 pp 60 - 61

While counting pattern pieces for my CynicalGirl shop on Etsy, I came across this sweet pattern, McCall's 1921. "Child's Self-Help Apron. A Ding Dong School Pattern Approved by Miss Frances".

McCall's 1921

This McCall's pattern was printed in 1954. It was developed for use by parents and children with the aid of America's most popular television teacher - Frances Horwich.  The easy to sew apron dress is a wrap with button tabs in the front, big patch pockets with appliques, finished with a simple bias tape trim around all the edges. Easy to sew and easy to dress yourself. My copy was well loved and probably made over and over and in fragile condition so I have recreated it as a pdf to share. This pattern is in a size 2, breast 21. Pages print as 8.5" x 11" sheets of paper. Download HERE.

1950 Laura Wheeler Designs Mail Order Pattern Catalog with Free Handbag Pattern

Laura Wheeler was a powerhouse of Mail Order needlework patterns. Perhaps as early as the 1930's, patterns for knitting, crochet, needlework and crafts were distributed through syndicated newspaper advertisements. This 1950 pattern catalog offers patterns for 25 cents for huck towels, crochet shrugs and sweaters, fascinator hats, dolls, holiday decor and more. It even includes a pattern to make a handbag. 

1950© Laura Wheeler Designs Needlework Pattern Catalog

You can view all of the patterns in this Vintage Laura Wheeler Catalog and download it for the handbag pattern. Or you can simply download the pattern for the handbag. Either way, enjoy perusing these fabulous patterns that turn ordinary household items into cheerful and beautiful fashions and decor.

1950© Laura Wheeler Handbag Pattern - Prints on 11 x 17 paper

101 Ways to Save With Your Sewing Machine

101 Ways to Save was published by the Domestic Sewing Machine Company, established in 1861, known as the American Domestic Sewing Machine when it became available in Europe. It was a popular brand and readily available, even sold by Sears. The company was active into the 1950's when it was sold under the brand White. I was able to find quite a story about the Domestic machines at Sewalot.com. Alex Askaroff from the Sewalot site is the keeper of the best resource for researching sewing machines and the curious histories behind them. Visit to learn more.

The Domestic Sewing Machine Company

This marvelous little pattern book was published around 1955. It must have been one of the last things published under the "Domestic" name. Inside there are patterns that are easy and quick to make gifts, clothes and takes us back to the origins of "upcycling". 

101 Ways to Save with Your Sewing Machine

With quick and easy patterns to elegantly transform your wardrobe, or DIY window shades, you'll find tips that save Time, Temper and Money in this 1950's booklet. Download HERE for more fun patterns that are easy to sew and wonderful gifts to make and give.