Needlework catalogue resting on hand embroidered placemats and napkins, circa 1940.
Have you ever looked through antique or vintage needlework catalogues? I highly recommend it–they are a treasure trove of information and inspiration.
The Simplicity Needlework Catalogue from 1947, shown above, is one of my favorites. Stitchers of that time were not so different from those of today.
The subject tabs show the topics to be very similar to the topics included in contemporary needlework magazines and pattern books.
“…Pick a basket full of colorful flowers to add a dainty touch to your trousseau linens–they’re just the thing to give as gifts…”
Aside from the value of dating a pattern or style of embroidery, the catalogues are a rich source of designs applicable to machine or hand embroidery today.   Continue reading
