Vintage White Linens

From the sweet simplicity of household linens to lacy confections of European origin, this essential reference will answer many questions about heirloom linens that may be tucked away in closets and attics. Whether you are a long-time collector or have recently inherited linens and simply want to know more about them, this guide will help you better understand their function and value. Organized alphabetically by type of linen, the book features over 300 beautiful photographs of tablecloths, towels, napkins, pot holders, placemats, curtains, doilies, runners, bed covers, boudoir cases, bureau scarves, pillowcases, lingerie envelopes, and many more. The items date primarily from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and include linens from Italy, Sweden, Ireland, Germany, France, and America. Captions provide dimensions, values, and variations in size, color, or style. Many close-up photographs illustrate the intricate workmanship of fine appliqu*/e work, embroidery, and laces from around the world. This book will delight all connoisseurs of fine vintage linen.

Creating home decor with vintage textiles is the latest hot sewing trend, fueled by the resurgence of interest in simpler times and lifestyles. A source of inspiration, ideas and projects, this exciting new book shows you how to locate, purchase, prepare, and assemble vintage textiles to create home decor that reflects these comforting times in a fresh, new way. More than 25 projects range in complexity from simple to advanced, including handkerchief pillows, memory quilts, slipcovers, and an upholstered ottoman. Includes all patterns as well as a fantastic photo gallery of inspirational projects.

Infuse your quilts with love--how to add your personal story and more meaning to your handmade quilts. In Wise Craft Quilts, celebrated quilt designer and crafter Blair Stocker shares ways to use cherished fabrics to make quilts with more meaning. Each of the twenty-one quilts featured here gathers a special collection of fabric, outlines a new technique, and spins a story. By using special fabrics as the starting point for each project—from a wedding dress to baby’s first clothes, worn denim, Tyvek race numbers, and more—the finished quilt is made even more special. Create quilts that have a story to tell and you’ll find a whole new level of appreciation for what they represent in your life and the lives of the ones you love.

A visual tribute to the elegant world of heirloom household fabrics, from the white linen cloth of ancient Egypt to the rainbow-hued coverlets of today. This lively text introduces heirloom household fabrics, their use, manufacture, embellishments, and care, as well as the infinite variety of fibers and materials used. The author explains how they serve as both unusually revealing testaments of the history of daily life and quintessential examples of the weaver’s craft, often so magnificently decorated that they rival works of art. The text is supplemented by a rich array of paintings, archival photographs, vintage advertisements, and original commissioned photography from collections, private homes, and workshops of the leading contemporary manufacturers. A comprehensive glossary of technical terms, bibliography, and index complete the book.

From common domestic doilies to custom European tablecloths exquisitely adorned with hand embroidery and lace, white linens are shown in great variety here. Organized alphabetically, beginners, collectors, and discerning decorators all can easily find information and identify variations from handmade knit lace to machine-made eyelet embroidery.

Entertaining at home in gracious French style. Born from her experience of everyday living in France, Sharon Santoni reveals the gracious, easy French way of entertaining guests at her countryside home, year-round. Personal stories evoke the spirit of the French lifestyle, while gorgeous photos make us feel right at home. Santoni creates lush bouquets from her garden and utilizes resources from surrounding nature to lay gorgeous tables both indoors and outdoors. Venues range from a Sunday morning breakfast on the patio, to a ladies lunch in her lush garden, a formal dinner in her dining room, and a picnic by the river. Santoni also shares 15 favorite recipes utilizing seasonal foods. Find inspiration for your tables throughout the seasons, and discover the simple pleasure of entertaining friends and family. Sharon Santoni writes the popular blog My French Country Home. She is the author of My Stylish French Girlfriends (Gibbs Smith). She resides in Normandy, France.

A pictorial reference guide covering the history of the printed tablecloth from the 1700s to the 1950s. Over 500 striking photographs of vintage tablecloths, period advertising and packaging, up-to-date values, and detailed captions. Includes sections on dating your tablecloths, spotting reproductions, and information about major manufacturers. A must-have resource for linen, tablecloth, and vintage textile collectors.

"Identification, restoration, and prices from antimacassars to watchcases, all types of embroidery, knits, crochet, Battenberg and hairpin lace, and drawn work"--Cover subtitle.