piecework and lace trims

Piecework has become one of my favorite publications; so many articles on vintage needlework.The article that attracted my attention this month was on crocheted edgings for linens. There are, of course, lots of machine made laces to use and antique pieces if you're lucky enough to find them.
I especially like the trims used on pillowcases, they look so fresh and delicate.
I do collect the vintage ones, but they always seem to be too short a length to use for anything.
By chance I just happen to be working on a simple fan pattern, maybe to use on pillowcases or sachets. There is something nice about plain white trim.
A few years ago I found this instruction booklet at a second hand store and fell in love with the very colorful 40's style edgings. Embroidered pillowcases, curtains, sachets, and table linens galore. The above white trim is made with crochet cotton:
and these bright ones are made with perle cotton #8. These trims are a little 'meatier' and the perle cotton comes in so many more colors. The sunny yellow one in the middle is my favorite. The advantage to making your own is that not only can you choose the color but can make it whatever length you need.
I ordered a pound of lavender last week and when it arrives I will make some sachets,perhaps embroidering them and edging them with homemade lace. The morning glory embroidery below is on a yet to be finished lingerie bag and I plan to adapt it as well as the orange flower one to pillowcases- trim them in handmade lace-
and while I'm at it maybe I should finish the bags!

piecework

There are certain magazines that I so look forward to,Piecework in particular, and especially this March/April issue. I love handworked household items and this issue is loaded with them.
There is also a lengthy article on vintage women's magazines, a wonderful source for old patterns and household tips. Many of these magazines kept women apprised of the important social and political matters of the day,especially rural women confined to home and family.
They also encouraged women to develop their needlework skills for the production of added income- a benefit during the Depression. The article above is of particular interest to me, I love collecting potholders and also make quite a few for the online shops.
The workmanship on this simple, everyday item is amazing.This is what I so appreciate about vintage linens- the time and effort put into everything from kitchen towels and bed linens to clothes pin bags.
I have quite a few old magazines from the turn of the last century through the 40's and will share some of them here from time to time. The illustrations and graphics are beautiful and some even frame worthy!

Hearts

Piecework magazine is going to have a Heart ornament contest in the spring. All the details will be available in October and the deadline is in April. There is to be 4 catagories all involving a different form of needlework-knit/crochet, embroidery/surface design, lacework, and quilting. The maximum size is 4", so this one is too large.

Since I'm going to be thinking about ornaments for Christmas now anyways I might as well think about hearts,too! I might try one for each catagory. Details about the piece above are on my lollishop site.