In Part 2 of this series, I concluded that despite scarce photographic evidence, American women who participated in the movement West in the early to mid-19th century really did wear sunbonnets on a regular basis. Surviving physical examples, newspaper references, and written … [Read more...] about 6 Reasons Why This Historic Photo of St. Louis is Amazing [Mid-19th Century Sunbonnets, Part 3]
handmade
Project Log: How to Make an 18th Century “Housewife” Sewing Kit
Meet the Housewife In this case, a housewife isn’t a person. I've got a notion I like the word "notion." It can mean a personal inclination or a general concept, but it can also refer to little tools and supplies. When used to describe physical objects rather than … [Read more...] about Project Log: How to Make an 18th Century “Housewife” Sewing Kit
Festoons of Fringe: How to turn Fun Fur and Eyelash Yarn into Durable Christmas Garland
The problem of what to make with Fun Fur or Eyelash Yarn Novelty yarn can be a challenge to use, not only because it can be awkward to crochet or knit with, but because its oddness makes it unsuitable for making elegant accessories or practical items for the home. When … [Read more...] about Festoons of Fringe: How to turn Fun Fur and Eyelash Yarn into Durable Christmas Garland
Mindful Mending: Repairing a Vintage Cotton Apron
What is it with the 1950's and poodles? For some reason, poodles seem to be the decade-defining embellishment in our collective cultural memory of the post-war, pre-hippie decade. However, I have never before handled a genuine mid-century garment adorned with the famous … [Read more...] about Mindful Mending: Repairing a Vintage Cotton Apron
