Updated December 26, 2025: These have both been sold.
Original World War II Defense Bond poster issued for the National Sew and Save Week, which took place in 1941 from February 21 through 28 encouraging women on the home front to support the war effort by sewing garments.
The Fashion Institute of New York has this from their Fashion Calendar for 1941, but the campaign was started in 1939. Here's the way it was reported in the New York Times on January 1, 1939 when it launched:
"Gratified by the large number of stores which have enlarged and modernized their notion departments in the last six months, the National Notion Association is pushing plans for merchandising campaigns to increase sales volume through this year. The association is made up of manufacturers of notions of all types and has sponsored a number of educational programs among retailers in the last few years.
"First of this year's campaigns promoted by the association is a national 'Sew and Save Week' to be held in cooperation with retailers next month. The campaign is expected to bring a sharp rise in sales of thread and other sewing accessories and will be conducted in conjunction with the usual 'white sales' in many retail stores. . . .
"A home sewing promotion contributed to by manufacturers of fabrics, patterns and notions, and supported by leading department and chain stores across the country. Promotions will be addressed to the teenage trade as the future home sewing market, with emphasis on style, quality, and economy. There will be a drive for clothing for the Red Cross, suggesting that the materials be purchased at stores and the garments made at home for contribution to local Red Cross Chapters. Cash prizes also for the best 'Sew And Save' windows."
This small poster includes, "Buy U.S. Defense Bonds and Stamps with your savings." And, "the Red Cross needs a million garments."
We have two of these—they are identical—and they are in excellent condition, with very bright colors.
Size: 11" x 14"
Shipping: $10. Please allow two weeks for shipping.