Pondering about the Pattern Press
Isn't it a marvel that Vogue and McCall’s issued printed patterns in the 1950s before there were computers? They printed multiple sizes and thousands of patterns. Imagine the technology that was required to do this. Printing gorgeous color photos on each envelope couldn't have been easy either. This was done every season, as well. It would be interesting to know their process back then. Does anyone have a photo of an old pattern printing press? That would be so fascinating to see!
Update: I found this article about McCall's closing down their pattern printing press in 2021. Some commenters mention that the press itself is the size of a two story house.
https://craftindustryalliance.org/mccalls-printing-plant-to-close-by-the-end-of-the-year/
Such a shame that the machines were scrapped rathe than sold.