The Kitchen Linens Book By EllyAnne Geisel

Some of you know that I love vintage fabrics - especially things from the 30's and 40's - well, and some of the 50's too! I thought that the APron Book by Ms. Geisel waws wonderful - and now there is another new title to add to my bookshelf. I love the presentation of this book. The paper 'feels' good, the typeface makes it a pleasure to read and I love the way the cover underneath the dust jacket looks great too.

This little gem of a book primarily covers, as the title so aptly indicates - Vintage Kitchen Linens.

Tablecloths, aprons, those funky little crocheted doilies that were so ubiquitous for so long, napkins, dishtowels - you get the idea! Sprinkled throughout the book are little vignettes; photos of vintage kitchen wares, photos and some great recipes. One of the coolest little treasures in the included Vintage Butterick Transfer patterns for embroidery.How cool is that?!

I love this book and am happy to add it to my bookshelf next to "The Apron Book". This book is published by Andrews McMeel Publishing and is available through Amazon and your independent book seller.

It's My Thing For Friday: Vintage Embroidered Pillowcases

I love hand embroidered pillowcases! All cotton bliss. I remember my grandmother making them and we always used them at home. If memory serves, it must have been in the 1950's when she was actively working on them. I can't sleep on anything else now! I thought that I would make some for myself, but it is impossible to find 100% cotton pillow cases anywhere. All of the ones that I have found available are a cotton/poly blend which simply won't do! I have found some gems at antique stores and on EBay at times as well. Sleeping on an all cotton pillowcase does not make your skin dry out as quickly overnight. Sweet dreams are almost gauarenteed. These beauties were actually hand ebroidered as well as appliqued - those red flowers are not just colored in. THe hand work is beautifully done.
Here is another excellent set. Never used. Colors bright and crisp and, once again, avery nice example of fine hand work.

Looks at these corcheted hems - this is the part that really gets me! How long did it take to corchet these colorful little edgings? They add so much to "language" of the case. So now you know another of my secrets. Beautiful, hand embroidered, all cotton pillowcases sore sweet dreams and soft skin!