"This handbook in drafting basic clothing patterns has been prepared with the needs of the stage costumer in mind. Costumers quickly become aware of the inadequacy of professional patterns for use in constructing other than modern realistic garments. They obviously need patterns that can be easily adapted to a variety of fashions and styles. These patterns also need to be both few in number and as simple as is practical. The basic patterns which will result from following the instructions included in this book will prove to be suitable and adaptable to the many variations of historical costumes." -- From the preface.