I recently made a trip to a near by library and took out these sewing books. One on the right in the first picture is very helpful, and the book teaches you techniques about how to make scalloped hem, different way to do button holes and what not. One on the left is from early 90s. The book has really lovely dresses, and it comes with a pattern you can trace. One of my problems with vintage or old patterns is that they look cute in the pictures, but do not fit right in the real life. So I am looking at these pictures for just inspiration sake. Those dresses kind of remind me of little house on the prairie. 
Style inspiration: church & state
Inspiration: off shoulder neckline
Becca says
I want htese dress now! 🙂
vivatveritas says
i know, they are really lovely!
Akazukin says
Have you tried Book Off? Mostly there are inspiring books from the 90s but once in a while you can find a more recent book/mook/magazine.
vivatveritas says
hi akazukin chan, i should def try that! i usually go to book off for used cds, but i didnt think of checking sewing books. great idea!