A Comprehensive Guide to Vintage Pyrex Bowl Patterns

As a child, I could always tell when something special was about to happen in our home—whether it was a party or a Thanksgiving gathering—whenever my mom brought out a certain brown, swirl-patterned oval dish. It had a matching lid and was filled with casseroles or comforting meals. That dish was the Raffia pattern, also known as Brown Onion, introduced by Pyrex during their 1970s promotional collections.

These limited edition patterns, which spanned from the 1950s into the early 1970s, were strategically released around special occasions like Mother's Day, weddings, and the holiday season. Over time, Pyrex transitioned from transparent glass to solid colors, creating an enduring legacy in kitchenware. How it ended up in our home remains a mystery.

Vintage Pyrex patterns have become a full-fledged cultural phenomenon, extending far beyond mixing bowls. You can find everything from home décor to men's apparel featuring Pyrex designs on platforms like Amazon and Etsy. The influence of these timeless pieces has left such a lasting mark that there are even books dedicated to their rich history. Pyrex doesn't just sit on your shelf; it becomes a part of your home and your life, enduring for generations. Here's a curated guide to some of the most iconic pieces:

Snowflake, 1956-1967

This design was available in a white-on-charcoal version but became most popular in turquoise and white. It’s fondly remembered for gracing holiday tables, though it shouldn’t be confused with the Snowflake Blue pattern, which was available from 1972 to 1975.

Gooseberry, 1957-1966

Whether most cherished for its soft pink and white variant or its bold dark design on a golden backdrop, this print became a hallmark of the 1960s.

Butterprint, 1957-1968

Butterprint, also known as 'Amish print,' was offered in blue, pink, and a distinctive 'pumpkin' color. Along with Gooseberry, it was one of the first patterns featured on Pyrex’s iconic Cinderella bowls, a collection of bowls that nested neatly together in varying sizes.

Sandalwood, 1960-1962

The unmistakable ivy leaves, vines, and soft tan hues make this design a timeless classic for many collectors.

Early American, 1962-1971

This design, featuring household items and decor from the early colonial era, was a popular choice for Thanksgiving tables. It was typically seen in brown-on-white or gold-on-brown patterns.

Town and Country, 1963-1967

The Town and Country pattern is distinguished by its stitch-like starbursts and, in certain variations, includes circular and cross elements. It was also part of Pyrex's stamp program, where customers earned stamps with purchases that could later be redeemed for exclusive, limited-edition pieces.

Square Flowers, 1966-1972 / Verde, 1967-1972

Square Flowers, also known as Autumn Floral, Verde Floral, or simply Verde, is one of the most iconic vintage patterns. Verde features a charming design of olives and leaves on classic white glass.

Dots, 1968-1973

A 1969 catalog described it as 'Pyrex Ware. Puts the fun in functional.' This vibrant series of cascading dots became one of the brand’s most beloved patterns.

Friendship, 1971-1974

This delightful pattern, featuring cheerful birds and flowers in vivid orange and yellow, is the perfect match for any retro-inspired kitchen.

Spring Blossom Green, 1972-1978 / Spring Blossom Green Redesign, 1979-1981

The iconic olive-green bowl with white flowers (or vice versa) evolved into a more delicate version of the same design on forest or lime green bowls towards the end of the 1970s.

Butterfly Gold, 1972-1978 / Butterfly Gold Redesign, 1979-1981

The original pattern features what resemble butterfly wings, but in reality, it’s a design of leaves surrounding a five-bloom bouquet, all presented in a cheerful sunny yellow.

Old Orchard, 1973-1977

Another beloved piece found in many households was Old Orchard, a striking burnt sienna-colored glass featuring a still-life fruit design, perfect for serving everything from stuffing to cobbler.

Forest Fancies, 1980-1986

A pencil-drawn field of mushrooms on a moody-colored glass is the perfect pairing for a hearty stew or braised dish. The playful design made it a household favorite, lasting a full six years.

Shenandoah, 1981-1986

The Shenandoah pattern, with its delicate sketches of light green flowers and leaves emerging from the ground on soft yellow glass, was a cherished piece for home cooks in the early 1980s, often used for springtime casseroles and potluck favorites.