Cut it Out!

One of Gisborne's more unusual industries is that of dress pattern manufacturing. On the premises of Pattern Distributors in Peel Street patterns for the whole range of "Maudella" Patterns are made and, from here, are distributed throughout New Zealand. English designed patterns, instruction charts, coloured envelopes for packing, and advertising posters are all made here. The staff of thirteen work in cheerful co-ordination and output is on the increase.

Mrs Val Fawcett cuts out the patterns with the electric cutter. The patterns are cut 150 at a time.

In charge of the office work is Mrs Annette Martin.

A1l patterns (pre-cut and ready for use) have their codes perforated through them. Mrs Sonja How Chow is seen here operating the machine.

The folded patterns are packed into envelopes for distribution by Rebecca Tuahine.

Factory manageress and designer is Mrs Vicky Rakuraku. Mrs Rakuraku, who came from Poland originally, designs 75% of the school uniform patterns for New Zealand.

Mrs Shirley Williams scribes the patterns from the master pattern plates before they are taken to Mrs Fawcett for cutting out.

Company manager, Mr Geoff Curran, setting up the photocopying machine for processing pattern negatives.

Miss Shona MacDonald's responsibility is to ensure that all pattern pieces are sorted together in correct order. After they are folded together they are pressed in a clamp to get rid of unwanted air. This makes for easier and flatter packing.

Mrs Ruiha Manuel, in charge of dispatch, sorts out patterns from stock for mailing.

Mr Curran checks a pattern competition leaflet as it comes off the press The company is running a dressmaking competition based on "Maudella" patterns and the first prize is a sewing machine valued at $229, plus two dozen "Maudella" patterns.

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The Gisborne Photo News

No 193 : July 15, 1970

Cut it Out!