Bridget Mcconnel

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Story of antique needlework tools

Long taken for granted as ordinary household objects, needlework tools are enjoying a new and richly deserved interest among collectors of all ages and both genders. Covering the simple to the sumptuous, this delightful book chronicles the history and diversity of needlework tools dating from ancient Egypt through the twentieth century. Nearly 500 color and black/white photographs beautifully illustrate tools such as needles, bodkins, pin cushions, thimbles, bobbins, clamps, hooks, shuttles, measuring tapes, waxers, winders, and more. In addition to the tools themselves, you will find the boxes and containers used to hold them--from slender needle cases and knitting sheaths to large, ornate sewing boxes. Both new and experienced collectors will enjoy learning about such interesting objects as sewing "toys" and compendiums, Nanny brooches, drizzling cases with their "unpicking" tools, and the nineteenth century sewing cases known as Ladies Companions. A highlight of the book is a special section featuring representative needlework tools from several outstanding international collections. Three appendices, values for the tools illustrated, a bibliography, and an index round out this captivating book.