Two places back in the early 70s used that device of measuring and nicking the fabric.
J.J. Newberry in Saugerties, NY and Big Scott in Kingston, NY. Both stores are gone now, but not forgotten.
There was a small fabric store in Saugerties as well called the Buttonhole. Such a quaint little place and I remember buying my first spool of Metrosene thread there.
Those were some good old days.
Blessings,
Sandi