August 6, 2011

Decorating During World War II – A 1943 Sears Pamphlet

By RetroRuth

I was lucky enough recently to stumble across a great upholstery book from 1955 in my local Salvation army. But that isn’t what this post is about. What this post is about was tucked snuggly inside the front cover of said upholstery book, sitting patiently and waiting for me to stumble across it. Check this out:

It is this awesome pamphlet from Sears, Roebuck and Co., dating from 1943: How To Decorate Your Home With Curtains, Slip Covers and Draperies.

“Make the most of what you have,” the first sentence in the pamphlet admonishes.  I think that is as great a sentiment for us today as it was during this period of rationing in American history. This pamphlet has decorating ideas and instructions for quick projects to spruce up a room with a minimum amount of fabric and money. This is a great resource for them AND us, especially if you are looking to update your 1940’s home on a budget!

“If you can sew at all, a few yards of material and a little imagination is all you need.”

Plan today to make the most of the furnishings you have; re-condition them to meet present-day needs!

When the decorating urge is overshadowed by a slim budget, learn about color. Let your home tingle with vivacious color!

This pamphlet includes ideas for curtains and fabric use in rooms, ideas for curtains on difficult windows, curtain-making instructions, slipcover-making instructions AND lots of delicious illustrations of wartime style and décor. Enjoy!

Oh, and if you are interested in more of Sears, Roebuck and Co. offerings from 1943, check out scans of their 1943-1944 catalog at the Murray County Museum.