Ladies S Work For PL 00 Hero
Ladies S Work For PL 00 Hero
Ladies S Work For PL 00 Hero
WOQK
FOR
PLERSURE
AND
PROFIT.
Folly Illustrated.
DAINTY SERIES.
Issued Quarterly. By
. Subscription, $2.00 per
year. Vol. I. No. 1.
May, 1894. Entered at i
Chicago Post-OtJice as
second-class mail mat- !
V.
t«r. i
CHICAGO:
ADDIE E. HERON
"Decorative Art," "Practical Lessons on Shading," "Needlework Souvenir," Series on "Art Embroidery,"
"Blossom Cloverly," A Temperance Story, " Won, but Not Wooed," " How 1 Furnished My
Parlor," "The Cheltenham Girls," "The Little Trespasser," "Outwitting the Boys,"
"Storming the Castle," "Daisy, Dot and Dimple," and other stories.
SECOND EDITION
REVISED BY THE AUTHOR.
TO
The publishers of " Dainty Work for Pleasure and Profit, " in issuing a
work of such importance to women have considered it only just that the
book should be dedicated to the most representative American woman of
the day. That woman is unquestionably the President of the Board ol
Lady Managers of the World's Columbian Exposition, Mrs. Potter Palmer
— a woman of the highest social distinction, possessed of all the gracious
attributes of true womanhood, honored by the nation and beloved by all
T^BLE OF CONTENTS.
CHAPTER I.
CHAPTER IV
Transferring and — Tracing Paper— How to use
Stamping Designs
Perforated Stamping Pattern— How to make — How to use — Care of Patterns
— How to Clean —Stamping Liquids— How to make — How to use — Panta-
graph for Enlarging or Reducing Designs — Conventional Designs 21
CHAPTER V.
2 tABLE OF CONTENTS.
CHAPTER VI.
—
Application of Stitches Darning Stitch for Background Dado ot —
—
Frieze Conventional Design Worked with Filling Stitch Couching and —
Satin Stitch Combined — Infant's Trosseaux — French Embroidery— Ken-
sington and Darning Combined— Combination of Spot and Single Daisy
Loop — Leaf —
Border Grape Vine Border — Application of Kensington
Stitch — —
Short and Long Stitch Shading Conventional Designs 49
CHAPTER VII.
— —
Shading System of Shading Selecting Shades of Embroidery
—
Threads Table of Colors — How to Purchase How to Use Proper — —
—
Method Shading Specifically Applied Natural Shading Conventional —
—
Shading Shading of Stalks, Leaves, Stems and Petals Where to Put —
— —
High Lights Where to Place Shadows How to Blend Different Shades.
59
CHAPTER VIH.
—
Art or Flat Embroidery Classification of Embroideries Roman —
— —
Embroidery Applique Embroidery Outline Wash Fabrics Embroi- —
— — —
dered Table Cloths Lunch Sets Side Board Scarfs Doyleys Carving — —
—
Cloths Vegetable Mats Tray — —
Cloths Pillow Shams Scarfs Bed- — —
— —
spreads Bureau and Commode Scarfs Splashers Tidies Toilet Sets — —
— —
Stitches to be Used Materials to be Employed Suitable Designs Arti- —
cles for Use in Sleeping Room — —
Pansy Lunch Set Scroll Border for Cen-
ter Cloth — — —
Round Cushion Table Cover Curtains and Portieres— Screens
— Embroideries for Ladies Dresses, Sacques, Collars, Handkerchiefs, Fans,
Parasols, Ruffles, Etc. — Embroideries for Children's Wardrobe 67
CHAPTER IX.
—
Church and Bullion Embroideries Materials for — Stitches Used in
Ecclesiastical —
Embroideries Couching Stitches — Diamond Drapery
Plain Shell — Spider —Vandyke —Wheel — Wavy — Manner of Working
Colors to be used Ecclesiastical Embroideries — Designs for Gold and
in
Silver Work — Cardboard Foundations 115
CHAPTER X.
Berlin Embroidery —Uses of Stitches for — Materials for Berlin Work
Designs —Colors — Blending of Shades— Combination of Stitches 139
CHAPTER XI.
Raised Embroidery — Ribbon Work — Louis XVI Designs — Smgle Rib-
bon Roses — Double Ribbon Roses — Calla Lily — Tiger and Japan Lilies
——
TABLE OF CONTENTS. 3
CHAPTER XII.
CHAPTER XIII.
— — —
Drawn Work Materials for Stitches for Frames for Uses of —
— — — —
Designs for Corners Borders Set Patterns Wheels Scrolls Squares — —
— — —
Preparing the Work Foundation Stitches Drawing Threads Basket —
Insertion— — —
Lunch Cloth Center Cloth with Border Antique Corner and
—
Border Combination of Drawn Work and Embroidery 241
CHAPTER XIV.
4 TABLE OF CONTENTS.
— Pansies — Purple Thistles — Pond Lilies — Purple Clematis— Oxhart Cher-
ries— Leaves and Berries of Virginia Creeper— Peacocks — Golden Rod —
Asters — Panel of Hollyhocks — Washable Painting — Medium— How to Use
—Water Color Painting — Roses — White Flowers — The Primrose — }31ue
Flowers — The Convolvulus— Figures Water Colors — Fabric Tinting
in
Paris Tinting — Painting on Celluloid or Ivorine — Lilacs Oil on Celluloid in
— Lilacs Water
in Colors on Celluloid — Luster Painting — Materials for
Brushes for — Medium for — Colors for — Method of Using — Kensington
Painting — Parrots— Crayon Painting — Portraits — Painting on Birch Bark
Scorch Painting — Tapestry Painting— Canvas for — Dyes — Brushes — Mixing
Colors — Flesh Colors — Flesh Painting —-Palette for Sky — Colors for Drap-
eries — Hair and Drapery — Decorative Painting for Profit 257
CHAPTER XV.
— —
Point Lace Honiton Lace Novelty Lace Point Lace Braid Lace — —
— — —
Thread Lace Stitches Tracing Cloth Foundation Cloth or Leather —
—
Designs for Lace Work Outlining Design with Braid Method Working —
— — —
Laying Braid Stitches Proper or Point Finishing Edge Connecting —
— — — —
Bars Wheels Rosettes Ground Stitches Brussels Point Venice Point —
— Little Venice Point — —
Spanish Point Grecian Point Valenciennes Stitch —
— — —
Point d'Alencon Turkish Point Net Groundwork Stitch Mechlin —
—
Lace Stitch—Venetian Bars Dotted Venice Point — Raleigh Bars Point —
— — —
Lace Handkerchief Fischu Border Cushion —
Cover Handkerchief — —
Centers and Borders 3Q9
CHAPTER XVL
—
Knitting and Crocheting Terms Used in Crocheting Explanation of —
— — —
Abbreviations Used Child's Dress Purse Infant's Sacque Baby's Shirt —
— — —
Lady's Vest Ladies' Basket Pattern Vest Baby's Hood Fancy Bag —
— — —
Fringe Pine Apple Edge Insertion Border Crochet Trimming Crochet —
— —
Design for Bed Spread Wheels for Toilet Set Edging Diamond Edge — —
— — —
Fern Edge Crochet Trimming Narrow Edging Broad Edging —
— —
Coral Edging Reticella Crochet Table Cover Child's Petticoat Cro — —
— —
chet Towel Daisy Crochet Lace Crocheted Guimpure Lace Crocheted —
— —
Table Cover Skirt Edge, Crochet and Braid Infant's Knitted Jacket
— — —
Moss Edge Fern Edge French Edge Serpentine Edge Crochet and —
— —
Fancy Braid— Shell Edge Palm Edge Knitted Hood for Child Cro- —
—
cheted Hood for Child Crocheted Pillow Shams Table Mats Border to — —
— — —
Mat Crocheted Doll Torchon Lace Comfort for Lounge Porcupine —
—
TABLE OF CONTENTS. •
5
Stitch— Wheels— Petticoat For Child— Border and Corners for Table
Cover— Crocheted Skirt— Infant's Vest— Crocheted Mop Duster— Cro-
cheted Novelties 325
CHAPTER XVII.
Dainty Work —Work for the Stay-at-homes —The First Start
for Profit
— Commenced Samples — Cost of — Materials for — Designs for Order
Work — How to Solicit — Orders for Embroidery —The Days' Work
first
CHAPTER XVIII.
—
Description of Full Page Illustrations — Cushions Head Rests- -Roman
— — — —
Embroidery Star Quilt Drapes Doyleys Carafe Mat Table Covers —
Easel — — —
Drapes Portieres Mantel Drapes Window Drape Magnolia —
— —
Doyley Maple Leaf Doyley Dresden Plate Doyley Draped Beds —
— — — —
Colored Plates Fleur de lis Poppies Oranges Oak Leaves Sumac —
Golden Rod 426
CHAPTER XIX.
— —
Doyley Designs Five o'clock Tea Cloths Screens Butterfly Center —
— —
Cloth Louis XIV Design Violet Center Cloth Bed Spreads Rose — —
— —
Center Cloths Flower Doyleys Violet Basket Center Cloth Sponge —
— — —
Bags Traveling Cases Picture Frames Handkerchief Bag Glove and —
— —
Veil Case Infant's Flannel Robe Hammock Cushion Ideal Honiton —
—
Lace Work Dresden Crib Cover and Pillow 435-458
DAlTNTg WOKK.
CHAPTER I.
INTRODUCTION.
the shape of mantel drapes, screens, wall-pockets, toilet sets, dainty table
linen, cushions, photograph holders, and all the numberless odds and ends
that go to make up the pretty home comfort of a room.
Taste, more than money, is needed in the decorating of American
homes; oftentimes the simplest and least expensive efforts are those which
give the most homelike, pleasing and restful effects. And now, dear reader,
right here let me say a few words directly and individually to you. Do not
wait to build a fine residence before you begin to make a home, in the only
sense in which the word should ever be used. Do not let your children
grow up amid uncouth and unlovely surroundings, while you are waiting for
the dollars to grow. Remember, the young will seek for beauty elsewhere,
if it is denied them at home. The old house maybe too square or too long,
too low or too high, too old fashioned, aye, even "tumble-down" may be
the only word to fully express its appearance, yet it can be made a lovely
ho?ne, if only the spirit of home beautifying abides in the heart of its
mistress. Now, do not say you cannot afford it; you can afford it, because
it is one of the necessities and not a luxury of life. With the facilities offered
in these pages for learning the different kinds of needle-work, and the
making up of an almost innumerable amount of fancy and pretty articles, and
the present low prices of materials, there is no excuse for bare, cheerless
looking rooms in any part of our country. And beside, decorative effort of
some kind is home culture. We say effort advisedly, as
a necessary part of
the result ismuch the thing to be considered as that the spirit, wish cr
not so
desire to make our homes not only orderly places of abode, but beautiful as
well, should exist. And we repeat, this effort at home decoration may be
costly or simple, according to individual means; but there is no home so poor
that some attempt at beautifying cannot be made. An attempt with
crudest results is better than none at all. If one lives in few rooms, and
curtains and carpets have so far been unattainable, the first effort at
INTRODUCTION. 7
decoration will naturally be to drape the curtainless windows and cover the
bare floors. The curtains may be of cheese cloth, and covering the floors
may mean to simply stain them, and, later on, to lay rugs of home manu-
facture; but what a change this effort to beautify will have made. Having
begun the work of beautifying, how simple it seems to go a step further,
and add a few pots of healthy plants to the curtained windows. Expen-
sively embroidered cushions, table spreads, lambrequins, etc., would here be
out of place, and so far from adding to the effect would be inharmonious.
The embroidered spread would laugh at the homemade rugs, and the
expensive cushion turn up its nose at the homely lounge.
We hear some dissenting voice cry out: "You would have the mistress
home cease her efforts at
of this primitive home beautifying ere she has
fairly By no means! We simply wish to say that articles of mere
begun?"
luxury should give way to those of necessity, and that the decorations
should be harmonious with the general surroundings. If the household
means will allow it, we would have the mistress thereof purchase a good
supply of nice firm table linen, a good supply of bedding and towels, and
embroider the family initial or monogram on each piece. The constant use
of dainty linen, the constant sight of a well-appointed table, are factors in the
home education of every child; we hold, therefore, that embroidered house-
hold linen is a decorative necessity and within the reach of the very poor.
The trouble with those who exclaim most loudly at the expense attached
to fancy work, lies in the fact that articles of mere ornament are begun with
only the vaguest idea on the part of the worker as to the ultimate cost;
hence, discredit is brought upon the very name of fancy work. All this
might be obviated if as much thought were given to the subject and the
same rules governed the purchase of art materials as is given to the ordi-
nary purchases of the household.
When women cease to make Si 5 to S20 lambrequins for a room whose
entire furnishings did not cost three times that amount, and ^10 table
spreads when the income would not warrant an outlay of more than one-
third as much; when they learn that a few dollars' worth of embroidery silks
disposed over several articles in keeping with all the surroundings is far
more effective than one elaborate piece whose very richness renders shabby
what before was passable, then will "Home Decoration" occupy its rightful
S DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
position as a necessary and useful art. And now a last word before we
enter upon the subject of this work. If anything must be dispensed with in
$3.50 per yard for your doyleys and dressing case covers, use scrim at 15
cents per yard. If you cannot afford a Persian rug, or even a very good
imitation of one, buy a Ross rug hook, take a piece of coffee sacking,
ravel pieces of old carpet for the necessary yarn, and make one; it will cost
about $1.50, and perhaps less; if neatly done, it will look almost as well as
one that sells at $15 to $25. And remember, first, last and all the time, that
"Refined ornamentation in every room in the- house, especially those of the
boys and the help, and a union of effort in this kind of work, particularly in
the parlor and all other family apartments, will have a wonderful effect in
developing character and preserving harmony in the household."
CHAPTER II.
MATERIALS.
&K.^.
:N THIS day of progressive ideas almost every
kind of textile fabric is used as a background
for decorative neeedle-work, from the coarse,
unbleached linen crash to the finest silks and
velvets, and each and every kind is appropriate,
according to the use for which it is designed.
We will here give the names and a brief description of the different fabrics
widths, from sixteen to thirty inches, and for lo to 25 cents per yard.
Bleached Linen, of a fineness suitable for shirt fronts, is suited for
doyleys, center cloths, pillow shams, toilet sets, sideboard sets and guest
towels, when something very nice is desired. This kind of linen can be had
in widths from twenty-four to thirty-six inches, and for various prices,
according to quality, from 60 cents to ;^i.oo per yard being the usual price.
Domestic Linen is a firm fabric with a very light twill, and is made
in widths from sixteen to eighty inches. Domestic linen is used for all the
purposes for which the finer qualities are employed, and is especially suited
for bedspreads, pillow shams, dresser scarfs and toilet sets that are to be
embroidered with either silk or linen threads. Price per yard, from 20
cents to ^1.50.
Bolton Sheeting" is a coarse, heavily twilled cotton fabric, two
yards wide. It derives its name from the English town where it was first
that it is used for sheets and pillow slips in English workhouses. It is very
10 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
effective when embroidered in colors with either silk or linen threads, and
is much used for fancy bedspreads and dresser sets, beside portieres and
sofa covers. It is cheap, costing but 50 cents a yard for the best quality,
and it is full two yards wide.
Colored Art Linen. This fabric is a recent weave, and from the
beauty and durability of the colors is destined to enter largely into the
field of decorative work. Art linen is fifty inches wide, and is made in all
the beautiful art shades, such as dead-leaf brown, old rose, gray b,lue,
golden brown, leaf green, ecru, nasturtium, orange and gray. It is used for
covering furniture, portieres, curtains, cushion covers and table spreads, and
lends itself to the lights and shades of embroidery silks with beautiful
effect. Price per yard, $1.50.
Huck-a-buck, commonly called huck toweling, is a linen material
in pure white and cream white, having threads slightly raised on the surface
forming a honeycomb mesh. The mesh is large or small, close together or
far apart, according to the fine or coarse quality of the huck. This fabric is
usually decorated with outline in stem stitch, and background darned with
silk or linen threads. The widths vary from sixteen to forty inches, and
dresser scarfs and toilet sets, as the soft finish makes a good background
for silk embroidery. It is forty inches wide, and can be had for 75
cents per yard.
Butciiers' Linen is a very coarse linen, partly bleached, full
bleached or unbleached. It is made in various widths, though the forty-
inch weave is the one more commonly employed, as it cuts to better
advantage in making up articles. It can be use.d for decorative needle-
work, though it is not so nice as the domestic linen. The forty-inch width
usually sells for 30 cents per yard.
1
MATERIALS. 1
Price per yard, 50 cents. This is a popular fabric for toilet sets, cushion
very desirable material for table covers, plain spreads, portieres, bed
spreads, toilet sets and cushion covers. It is beautiful embroidered with
Price per yard, from 60 cents to Si. 25, according to quality. Width,
eighteen to twenty-seven inches.
Banner Silk js a twilled silk, made in two widths, namely, forty-
four and seventy-two inches. It is designed especially for society banners,
but is also used for door and window draperies when expense is no object.
Price per yard, S8.00 and Sio.oo.
Upholsterers' Plush and Satin. These materials closely
resemble the ordinary fabrics of the same name, but are usually a heavier
quality. Widths, fifty-four and seventy-two inches. Price, Sio.oo, S12.00
inches wide and costs S2.50 per yard. It is used for table scarfs and covers,
portieres and panels.
14 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
Russian Tapestry is a very heavy, all-siik material, woven with a
broken twill crosswise of the fabric, and presents a crepy effect which lights
white, ecru, old rose and gray. It is woven with basket effect on the right
surface; the mesh is about as pronounced as that on medium coarse huck
toweling. Basket silk is fifty inches wide, and can be had for $3.00 per yard.
Mail Ciotil is a very heavy silk-faced fabric, fifty inches wide. It has
a small bird's-eye weave on the right surface and requires no lining. It
comes in all the art shades, such as Indian red, maize yellow, sage green,^
dead-leaf brown, old blue, ecru and cream. It is a beautiful background for
heavy embroidery with rope silk, couching silk and art cord. Price per
yard, $3.00.
India Silk is a thin, plain woven silk, much used for draperies, puffs,
six inches wide, and can be had for from 60 to 75 cents per yard. It is very
dainty embroidered in outline stitch only.
Double-faced Sateen is a very heavy goods, plain satin surface
on both sides. As its name indicates, it is reversible; thus, one side will be
a deep old blue, while the reverse side will be a pale old blue overcast with
a silvery sheen, but both blues will be of the same line of color. Where
handsome portieres or table covers are desired there could be no more
beautiful fabric. No linings are ever used with this sateen. It is fifty
dery work, but it is by no means a complete list, as there are the canvases
used in cross-stitch, the lawns, muslins, merinos and flannel used for articles
of wearing apparel, the serges, velours and brocaded silks of infinite variety
that are used for furniture covers, that need no description here as they are
familiar to all.
CHAPTER III.
wooden pins; holes, large enough to hold the pins, are made at regular
distances apart on the two side pieces, and one hole in each
end of the two
end pieces, after the fashion of quilt frames. This allows the work to be
rolled out of the way as fast as finished.
gether in order to hold the ticking firmly in place. In putting work in the
frame, sew to the ends of material a strong piece of cotton factory or tape,
which then sewn with strong thread to the ticking on the frame. It
is
should be as tight and firm as possible, the strain being increased gradu-
ally, the sides of the material to be embroidered should then be braced to
the side pieces of the frame by means of a heavy twine threaded in a coarse
needle. Begin at the upper right corner by drawing the thread through
the tape or cotton, and securely tie the end; the twine must then be sewn
over the side piece of frame and into the side of material until the lower
corner is reached, then knotted securely and cut off. The other side must
be done in same manner. When the material is larger than the frame, it
must be sewn on to the bars and rolled round one of them, putting tissue
paper and wadding between to prevent the fabric from becoming creased.
When the part in the frame is finished, it is then rolled around the opposite
bar, and so on until the work is completed.
hand should be used to put the needle down and the left hand to return it
to the surface again. This is slow work at first, but if persevered in will
amply repay the time spent in the increased speed acquired.
There are certain fabrics and kinds of embroidery that can be done over
IMPLEMENTS AND EMBROIDERY THREADS. 17
hoops Figure 4 shows a pair of these hoops. The work is placed smoothly
over the smaller hoop, and the larger is then drawn over the whole. If
needles of various sizes, both round eyed and long eyed. The kind of
needle known as arrasene needles are best for carrying chenille, arrasene,
ribbosene, rope silk, art silk, Bargarren linen and rope linen. They can
De had in packages containing assorted sizes. The needle for working with
Bargarren linen should be two sizes larger than that for carrying rope
linen, and the needle for carrying wool arrasene should have a larger eye
than the one employed in carrying silk arrasene or rope silk. It is better
to have a needle too large than too small for such threads as Bargarren
arrasene and chenille. For embroidering with etching silk, filo floss, wash
twist, linen floss and embroidery cotton a round-eyed needle should be
used — Millward's No. 9 for filo floss and linen floss, and No. 8 for the other
ment is made of steel, which is round and pointed at one end, resembling a
stilletto, and flat at the other.
A pair of sharp-pointed scissors is an abso-
lute necessity. Do not depend upon the
family scissors or shears, if it is possible to
have a pair exclusively for embroidery. The
slender, sharp-pointed kind are the only ones
EMBROIDERY SCISSORS. FIG. 5. guitcd to Cutting out iu Roman embroidery
and applique work and for cutting ends of threads.
A pair of white sleeves to draw on over the dress sleeves and a linen apron
to cover the skirt are necessary adjuncts to the
toilet of the embroideress when at work, as
without them the dust that naturally adheres
to the dress will soil the work. For those
ladies who are troubled with rough hands, a
piece of fine sandpaper or pumice stone should
be kept in the work basket and the fingers
rubbed with it occasionally. If the hands be-
come troublesome through perspiration, bathe
them in strong alum water. We show here a
model for a convenient work apron. The apron
should be long enough to nearly, if not quite,
cover the skirt, and the hem should be turned
up on the right side to a depth of twelve
inches and caught down at regular intervals
Crewels. The crewel is a strong twisted woolen yarn, not at all like
zephyr, but finer and firmer. The English crewels come in lovely soft
shades, which blend beautifully.
Zephyr is a soft twisted woolen yarn used on canvas worked in cross-
stitch.
Arrasenes, both silk and wool, have been very popular and are still
the center.
Chenille is a velvety-looking round thread, made in two sizes, large
and small.
Smyrnasene is a coarse, round thread, resembling chenille, but
having a rough, fuzzy surface; used sometimes to work thistle leaves and
begonia foliage.
Ribbosene is a narrow, crinkled ribbon, used in the needle in the
same manner as arrasene. No blending of shades is possible with this mate-
rial. We will speak further of the method of using ribbosene under the
heading of ribbon work.
Feathersene is a thread much resembling arrasene, except tnat the
silk has been ravelled only on one edge, and the remaining threads have
been left on the opposite edge instead of in the center. It is designed
to sew around the outline of designs, and is not used in the needle. It is
very perishable, and should not be employed upon articles that are for use
rather than ornament.
Embroidery Cotton is used for French embroidery upon linens
and cottons, and for initials. It comes in various colors, but red and white
are the only ones recommended.
Embroidery Wash Silks, made in four sizes, as follows: Etch-
ing Silk, very fine, with a firm twist. Wash Twist, larger than etching silk,
but with the same twist. Filo Floss, a soft, untwisted, fine silk. Royal
Floss, a soft silk resembling filo floss, but about twice as large. Rope Silk,
the largest size of silk to be used in the needle, has a slight twist.
20 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
Couching" Silk is a large, cord-like silk, but with a soft, loose twist;
Art Cord is a small silk cord; can be used for fancy filling stitches
of certain kinds, for lacing, etc.
rope silk, and the size next smaller than the Bargarren linen. Flourishing
Thread No. 4, which is finer than the rope, comes next. Flourishing Thread
No. 8, which is the finest of all, and corresponds to filo floss in silk, comes
last.
couching silk.
German Cord, not art cord, is a white linen cord used for button*
often happens that one wishes to use a design from a book or magazine, or
even wall paper, and then it will be necessary to transfer the design to the
fabric, which is done as follows:
Place over the design a sheet of tracing paper, and trace over the lines
very carefully. After the design is transferred to the tracing paper, place
on the table a sheet of bond paper, over this place a sheet of transfer paper,
either blue or black, and over this again place the tracing paper on which
you have previously traced the design, as before directed. Now, with an
ivory style or a piece of wood pointed bluntly for the purpose, go over
every line of the design, bearing on the lines gently and firmly. Remove
the tracing and transfer papers and the design will be found transferred to
the bond paper. You will now proceed to make a perforated pattern of if
^i DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
by simply pricking holes along all the lines, very close together, with a fine
cambric needle. Ladies possessing a sewing machine can make this part
of the process less tedious by setting into the machine the finest needle
and sewing, without thread, through all the outlines of design; when finished,
the result will be a perforated pattern as good as could have been purchased
i'rom a regular pattern house.
paper can be used any number of times until torn, when, of course, it is
useless. New tracing and bond paper will be needed for each new design.
After obtaining the perforated pattern, the next thing is to stamp it
upon the material to be embroidered. And here is the rock upon which
many a promising attempt has been wrecked; for if the pattern has been
blurred, or unevenly joined, in case of a repeatiiig design, then the embroi-
deress will have need of patience, a correct eye for form and distance, and
some knowledge of drawing, to enable her to remedy the defect of the
stamping. Remember that a good pattern, cleanly and clearly stamped, is
half the battle.
The foregoing instruction in stamping is all the knowledge at command
of any dealer in fancy art supplies who advertises to do stamping; she
knows no more than is here told, because there is no more to tell. Some
dealers, in fact we might almost say all dealers, in art supplies make a great
mystery about stamping, refusing to do it before a customer, and keeping
as a profound secret the material used. This is a short-sighted policy at
best, for the more women know about art embroidery, and the easier it is
made for them, the more they will do, and as a natural consequence the
more supplies in that line will be sold, and instead of a dealer having less
who has made a business of it for years. There must be a certain amount
of practice to make perfect.
Many beautiful designs are frequently given in miniature, in books and
magazines, that one wishes to use; but as they are too small to be practical
TRANSFERRING AND STAMPING DESIGNS. 23
we are obliged to pass them by. There is a small instrument called a pan-
very simple, and not at all difficult to operate. We show here a very good
PANTAGRAPH. FIG. 7.
2x5 inches, and it is desired to make it 8x20, the pantagraph will be set to
that size. In copying any design, the pattern to be copied will be placed
at a given point under one pencil and a clean piece of paper under the
other pencil of the pantagraph. Then, with the right hand, the pencil over
the design will be moved firmly around its outlines. The corresponding
pencil over the clean paper will move in unison, only on a larger or smaller
scale, according as the instrument has been- set. Full directions for setting
and using accompany each pantagraph. These convenient aids to drawing
can be purchased at any store where artists' supplies are kept. After the
design has been enlarged, as directed above, the perforated pattern can be
made according to instructions previously given. In the pages of this book
we shall frequently give designs for different purposes, and as space forbids
having them produced full working size, a pantagraph will be useful in
enlarging them. Generally speaking, the designs so given will require to
paints put up in tubes — white for colored fabrics, and white with a little
burnt umber mixed for white materials. There are several liquids on the
market designed for the same purpose, but the great objection to them is
24 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
by mail, the cost of expressage, added to the original price, has put their
use out of question with the majority of women. Liquids are more espe-
cially designed for use in stamping on white cotton or linen fabrics, and, as
they dry instantly, there is no waiting for several hours before the work of
stamping are now seldom used, as they will rub off before the work is half
finished; yet for stamping on silk bolting, where the design is to be painted
in water colors, there is nothing else that will take their place. For large
designs that are to be stamped on satin, powder is best, as the oil in the
paint and liquids is apt to separate and spread beyond the outlines, though
in the case of paint this danger can be obviated by first placing the paint
on blotting paper to absorb the oil. In case the powder is used, the design
should be lightly traced over with a fine-pointed lead pencil. A good
powder is made by mixing ivory black, gum demar, gum copal and gum
sandarac in equal parts; pulverize fine and keep in a cool place.
A good liquid suitable for any white fabric is made by placing a tea-
spoonful of black or blue printer's ink in a four ounce bottle and filling the
bottle with kerosene. Be careful to wipe off both sides of the pattern after
each impression when using the liquid. This liquid is cheap, as any printer
will cheerfully give the small amount of ink needed, and kerosene is pretty
sure to be at hand, and it does beautiful stamping. A pounce for either
powder or liquid is made by tying a piece of felt or flannel over a small
ball of cotton wool.
DIRECTIONS FOR STAMPING.
Place the article to be stamped smoothly on the table. Next lay the
design, smooth side up, on the material, being careful to adjust it exactly
in the desired position before you attempt to apply the paint. Now secure
the two upper corners firmly by weights — flat-irons will do nicely. Squeeze
out some of the paint on a piece of glass. You are now ready to apply the
paint to the pattern, which you do by means of a knife blade. Take a small
amount of paint on the blade and begin at the top; rub the paint on the
pattern smoothly and gently, always remembering to rub toward you and
TRANSFERRING AND STAMPING DESIGNS. 25
from the weights; always move the knife in the same direction, never rub
it back and forth, as that is liable to move the pattern and cause the stamp-
ing to look blurred. Never raise the pattern entirely from the material to
see how it looks, but carefully raise one corner clear from the table and
look under; let fall into place again and proceed with the stamping until
every detail of the pattern is transferred to the material. When all is
finished,remove the pattern; have ready an old paper, place the design
upon it, and pour a small quantity of benzine on a rag and rub the pattern
thoroughly, then wipe with a dry cloth. Repeat the operation on the other
side, and then hold the pattern to the light and observe if the perforations
are all open and free from paint. If any should be still closed, add more
benzine and rub until perfectly clean. Never allow a pattern to get dry
before cleaning, as that would ruin it. Clean at once. With proper care a
pattern ought to be capable of impressions.
sure it pays to take
fifty Be
care of your designs. These directions are to be followed when using
liquid, except that the pattern will not need cleaning. To stamp with
powder, place the pattern on the material, rough side up, dip the pounce
into the powder, shaking off the loose particles that may adhere, and rub
the pounce lightly over the perforations. When the design is perfectly
transferred, remove the pattern and on the stamping place a piece of tissue
paper; over this press lightly a medium hot iron; this sets the powder and
to a great degree prevents its rubbing off. Do not rub the iron back and
forth, but lift it when removing to another part of the design. Rubbing is
CONVENTIONAL DESIGNS.
The words "conventional design" will frequently be used throughout
the different chapters of this work, and so it will perhaps be better to
explain their meaning here. To conventionalize a flower or plant means
to draw the geometrical or general form of the leaf with the main details
and accidental markings omitted, thus converting the natural form into a
form suitable for ornament only. The designer of ornamental work is not
bound to be faithful to the minute particulars of botanic life, because he
and his work are superior to the mere imitation of plant forms.
26 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
lend themselves to embroidery better than those on the wall paper proper,
though beautiful patterns can be obtained here, also. The border pattern
should be used on curtains or other large articles, where the treatment is
intended to be bold and broad. Many of these designs are also suitable
will show a complete section of the design, which must be perforated and
then repeated as many times in the stamping as will be necessary to fill the
space to be decorated. Many magazines and old prints will also furnish
suitable designs, as previously stated.
CHAPTER V.
EMBROIDERY STITCHES.
hardly any limit to the usefulness of this simple stitch, and by its use beau-
tiful effects are easily obtained, at little expense of time and material.
There are several varieties of stem or outline stitch, and we will men-
tion them here, as this seems the proper order in which to classify them.
:>8 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
First, then, in the list is simple outline stitch, shown in figure 8, then in
figure 9 we have cording outline, close outline and twisted outline. Fig. lo
shows fancy chain outline, and figure 1 1 double chain
outline. In working outline stitch, if an even line
and consists of the same stitch taken three times side by side, but in dif-
ferent lengths, keeping the outline firm and even. It is a modification of
Kensington, and called by some the half-Kensington stitch. There is this
leaving as much silk on the wrong side as is shown on the right. The
EMBROIDERY STITCHES. 31
length of the longest stitch depends upon the size of leaf or petal you are
working; if a wild rose
petal is in process of con-
struction the entire petal
should not be worked with
stitches longer than one-
quarter of its entire depth.
to the left. This gives a better effect than where the work is begun at one
side of petal and carried to the opposite side. The irregularity of the
stitches must be made at inner part of petal or leaf; the outside edge must
be kept even and smooth.
The above stitch is specially suited to thin fabrics and where a light and
dainty effect is to be secured, but it is used on both light and heavy mate-
rials with good effect. With the outline stitches and the Kensington and
half-Kensington stitches thoroughly mastered an almost unlimited amount
and variety of decorative needlework is within your reach. In fart the
greater amount of embroidery shown at the rooms of Decorative Art Soci-
SATIN STITCH.
Satin stitch is that used in all the old French embroidery on silk and
flannel. It is also sometimes effectively combined with the Kensington
32 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
stitch, especially in the case of small leaves
BUTTONHOLE STITCH.
This stitch is used in working scallops in French embroidery on silk,
flannel and cotton fabrics, and also to finish outlines on Roman and applique
embroidery.
In using buttonhole stitch to work scalloped edges, the point or seal,
lop must first be carefully stamped or traced upon the material, after which
EMBROIDERY STITCHES. 33
two rows of stitches should be lun in to define both upper and under edge
SSf^fSiSi^Mi^^aSi of scallop. It is well to then fill in be-
it tween these two rows of stitches with
another row or rows, according to depth
of scallop, of long loose stitches of cotton.
This will give the scallop a heavy, rich
FIG. 18.
and raised effect, besides adding to the
durability of the edge. Figure 18 will show method of defining edge of
scallop, also method of filling in between.
Figure ig shows method of working button-
hole stitch as a simple outline. It will be seen that ^|i|iil|[
the needle should pass through the material just at
the edge of the top thread, coming out under the iMllitti^J^^^'^ '& -
SPOT STITCH.
Spot stitch, like buttonhole and satin stitch, is used in French embroi-
dery, and is made by working over and over, with regular satin stitch,
^ the stamped circle or spot. It is better to
begin in the middle of one edge of spot,
and work one-half the circle, then return
to the center and work the remaining por-
tion of the circle. If the spot is to be
slightly raised it will be necessary to work
FIG. 20. it over twice, in reverse directions. The
unfinished spot in figure 20 will give the correct idea for working
34 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
ANTIQUE EMBROIDERY.
This illustration gives a stitch used in heavy embroidery and, unlike
1 satin stitch, the veins of the leaves are
outlined while working the stitch. The
cut shows very clearly the manner of
forming the stitch, which is worked upon
an outline of stem stitches, the vein also
being defined in the same way. This
FIG. 21. work is much used in borders of a con-
ventional design, where a figure or scroll-work is made more promi-
to be
nent than the rest of the pattern, and an outline of some fancy stitch, like
couching or chain, is often placed around the figure.
PERSIAN EMBROIDERY.
Persian embroidery is a showy stitch, much resembling braiding. The
material used may be either a strand of tapestry wool or three strands of
rope silk threaded in the needle. It is a
great addition to designs in applique, the
section here shown representing a small
portion of a palm leaf. This work is in-
gles and gold thread are very appropriate additions. A heavy cording can
be madenvith this stitch.
FRENCH KNOT.
This stitch has the merit of great antiquity, appearing in early eccle-
siastical embroideries to represent the hair of "men and a^^gels," as well as
over the ground thus diversified are worked knots of silk, which have the
effect, at a short distance, of a stippled drawing on a large scale. The
flesh in the figures and some other portions of the design are worked
entirely in close knot. To-day French knot is of greatest importance in
fine work; it is almost always used in combination, seldom alone. As it is
slack thread has been drawn through, then release the thread and pull
through with the right hand simultaneously. This completes the knot,
which should present a compact and smooth appearance. This stitch is
used for filling center of flowers, for underlaying raised work, for golden
rod, thistles and cat-tails, on wash goods and also in initials.
COUCHING STITCHES.
Couching stitch is very simple, but its uses are many and varied, and
it is quite as important in our alphabet of embroidery as the letter "a" in
the alphabet of our language, and must be
} learned. While very simple, it is yet one
of the stitches that require our utmost
care in the making, as all its beauty de-
pends upon the neatness with which it is
beautiful.
HEMSTITCHING.
Hemstitching is at once the most elegant and useful accomplishment
of the needle worker. The ends of towels, sheets and pillow slips, as well
as articles of mere ornament are, or should be, finished with a row of hem
stitching. This is not one of the things that can be left to personal choice,
for custom has decreed that the refined housekeeper shall at least have the
hems of her best table and bed linen hemstitched, even if they are guilt-
less of every other form of art needle-
work. There are many methods of hem-
stitching, but of the many we find the
and catch the edge of hem; repeat this until the hem is completed. If
both edges of the drawn threads are to be hemstitched, repeat the operation
on the opposite edge. Figure 26 shows method of working, and as it is
very s'mple can be easily foUowed.
EMBROIDERY STITCHES. 37
Spanish laid work. For this purpose either a plain border or large scallop
is used. For our purpose we have selected the scalloped edge. The scal-
lop is first filled with either silk or linen threads, laid straight across from
one outline to the outline opposite, being careful to carry them across in a
perfectly straight line; place the threads so close together that the surface
of material does not show, yet be careful not to crowd them, one upon
38 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
another. If the work is being done upon a white linen or cotton wash fabric,
then for the straight lines use white Bargarren art linen. Thread an
arrasene needle with a strand of the Bargarren art thread, bring the needle
up to the surface at the right side of scallop, close
PLUSH STITCH.
Plush stitch is used for raising portions of certain designs above the
surface of material and is employed principally in working raised cat-tail
floss should be used. Cut the skeins of silk into equal lengths, according
to the height you desire to raise the flower; after the silk is cut, place
betweeji each French knot two of the strands, crossed like an X, sew them
firmly down to foundation and proceed to fill in each space between the
knots. If the flower requires to be very thick and velvety, instead of
crossing two lengths of the cut skein, double the lengths, using four instead
of two pieces between each French knot. After the flower is completed
whisk the silk out with a brush broom and clip off evenly. Plush stitch
is used in raised embroidery only.
FILLING STITCHES.
Filling stitches, so called because they are used to fill in the surface of
flower petals and foliage and the surface of conventional designs, which
have their outlines worked with short and long stitch, outline, or button-
hole short and long, stitch. This method of embroidery belongs to the
old Saxon days, and in fact used to be called Saxon embroidery. The
stitches used for filling are numerous and we will give a slight description
the honey-comb, except that the threads are not pulled down in the
is desired to have the work stand out in relief etching silk should be used.
EMBROIDERY STITCHES. 41
they are easily made and require but a small amount of material, are much
used where large surfaces are to be covered.
Figures 34, 35 and 36 will show clearly the mode of working. The
simple star, figure 34, is made by starting from a center and carrying out
^ ^ i4 H ^ ^^
N^^ :i4 ^ ^ ^
SIMPLE STAR. FIG. 34. DAISY STAR. FIG. 35. CROWSFEET. FIG. 36.
from it six or seven radiating lines, bringing the point of needle back to
center each time a stitch is taken. The daisy star, figure 35, is made by form-
ing four daisy loops as shown in illustration and then throwing out between
each of these loops a single stitch, shorter than the looped stitch. A
daisy stitch is simply a buttonhole stitch taken with a long narrow loop
and fastened at the loop end. In making the crowsfeet, figure 36, the cen-
ter line is made first and then a shorter one on each side at a slight angle.
Darning Stitches.
Darning applied to decorative needlework produces beautiful results, and
as the work is simple, quickly accomplished and little trying to the eye
42 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
sight, it is a popular method of embroidering. Darning stitches are used
as a means of producing a decorative background for embroidery done in
outline or short and long stitch; they are also used to fill the petals and
foliage of designs. In figure 39 we show a leaf filled
in with darning; the outline of leaf being treated with
outline stitch, which throws the darned work into
relief. The ordinary darning or running stitch is here
used, care being observed to take just as little of the
Where the entire background is darned, the design is first worked in either
flosson bolting silk, and the whole design outlined with the same silk,
must be seen to be appreciated; anything more dainty and fairy-like can-
not be conceived. For this style of work two shades of each color used
will be needed, one for the darning and one for the outline stitch that is
used to outline all petals, leaves and stems. Use the darker of the two
shades for ojatlining.
EMBROIDERY STITCHES. 43
Janina Stitches.
employed except that each stitch is carried from the side to the center.
To work double basket stitch, see figure 44, lay straight lines across the
surface of material, from one outline to the one opposite, at regular dis-
tances apart; with silk a shade lighter, but of the same color, begin at the
top of leaf and over the first straight line work two basket stitches at an equal
distance apart as follows: put the needle up through the material at the bot-
tom of the first line, carry the thread across the second line and put the needle
down close to the cross line; repeat this three times, placing the threads
close together, this constitutes one basket stitch. Now, between the two
44 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
basket stitches, worked over the first and second lines, carry another over
the second and third, then over the third and fourth, and so on until space is
massed effect of color. The materials for working close basket stitch
depend upon the background; if that be of heavy fabric, then rope silk and
art cord will be most suitable; if, however, it is desired to ornament portions
of design on linen or light satin or silk, then wash twist will answer the
purpose better. At all events the silk used should have a slight twist.
To work: first lay the darker of the two shades of rope silk evenly and
close together from one edge of outline to the other, back and forth; be
sure that the threads lie evenly, side by side. With the next lighter shade
of silk weave over and under, in basket darning, crossing four strands of
silk each time. The weaving is done with four strands of silk, one at a time.
D'Alencon Bars.
The above-named stitch is one much used for filling in leaves and
petals which are long and pointed, and for star-shaped flowers it is espe-
cially suitable. The method of working is as follows: Along the two sides
of petal or leaf work a row of loose buttonhole stitches; as the beauty of
the work will depend upon the regularity
of these stitches, great care should be exer-
cised in this part of the work. The D'Alen-
con bars are now worked into the button-
hole stitches by passing the thread four
times over and under each buttonhole stitch. pj^ .
c
The length of the bars is regulated by the space between the two opposite
edges. When the thread has been passed over and under for the fourth
time, making four bars, it is completed by making a tight buttonhole
stitch, and the thread is then passed through to the next loose buttonhole
stitch. Figure 45 shows D'Alencon bars applied to a leaf.
SPIDER WHEEL.
For filling portion of design in Roman embroidery the spider wheel
here shown is beautiful, and can be quickly accomplished. In working,
46 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
cross the threads six times from the edge of space to be filled, and at equal
distances apart. These form the spokes to the wheel. When the six
threads are in, the needle will be in margin of design. To reach the center
twist the needle on one of the threads
forming the spokes. To work pass
the needle iindcr one spoke, and then
pass around again loosely in the
reverse direction; pass the needle
over the second spoke and pass
around in a reverse direction loosely;
this reason the edge should be first worked with buttonhole stitch. Figure
Point de Reprise.
This stitch is admirably suited for filling large leaves and portions of
stitch, as well as the rosette and spider wheel, look best on heavy material
and done with art cord.
EMBROIDERY STITCHES. 47
Rosette Stitch.
The above stitch is the most effective filling stitch we have, and suit-
able for all the purposes for which point de reprise is used. This stitch
also looks best done in art cord. Rosette stitch is made as follows:
Mark off the background to be filled into square spaces, a little less
than an inch apart, by carrying the silk from one outline of the design to
the opposite outline and crossing these threads, at equal distances, from
the opposite outlines. Fasten the lines to the foundation at the point of
intersection by couching down with a fine thread over both lines; this will
formed in throwing the thread over; this forms a buttonhole stitch over
the line, which must be drawn tight and close to the couching stitch that
fastens the lines, at their point of intersection, to the material. Pass the
needle under the next line and on to the third, where the same operation is
to be repeated. The rosette has now a buttonhole stitch worked over two
of the opposite intersecting lines; the two remaining lines must be treated
in the same manner. This finished, the rosette has been worked once
around; to complete the stitch it must be worked twice around, forming
two raised or buttonhole stitches on each of the intersecting lines. When
the stitch is finished, pass the needle through the stitch to the under side of
the material, and on to the next intersecting lines. Work all the lines that
cross each other in the same manner, and finish the design by outlining with
art cord or rope silk.
48 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
The foregoing pages on "Stitches" contain all that is necessary for the
most advanced worker. None of the embroidery stitches are difficult in
the execution, but all require extreme care and neatness in working, and a
they are too intricate in detail to suit the patience or lack of patience of
the modern worker.
In closing the subject of stitches we will make one more plea for the
outline stitch. From time immemorial the most artistic work has been
wrought by its use alone, and indeed all the wonderful and beautiful
Egyptian embroideries were outlined or etched. There is scarcely
a limit to the number of artistic effects that can be obtained by its use.
Then, too, its simplicity is so in its favor, and indeed forms one of its chief
APPLICATION OF STITCHES.
Filling stitches are used most appropriately on wash materials and for
filling conventionalized designs used on tabic cloths, doyleys, table runners,
50 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
tray and carving cloths, fancy towels, pillow shams, dresser scarfs, toilet
articles and for filling portions of designs in Roman embroidery. For these
purposes the filling stitches are usually made with either etching silk or
Real Scotch linen floss, No. 4, though forsome stitches, notably janina,
and for darning on fine sheer fabric, filo floss or Royal floss is preferable,
while for French knots, where used in prominent portion of design, rope
silk or rope linen can be appropriately used. Darning stitch can be used to
form a background to throw design into relief; for darning a dado or frieze
for curtain or portiere. Any conventional design wrought out with any suit-
able filling stitch, or with short and long, outline, or buttonhole short and
long stitches can be used in connection. A combination of filling stitches is
perfectly proper and very effective on the same piece of work. Thus in
couching, buttonhole, spot, eyelet, dot or seed stitches and hem stitches.
arbitrary but merely given as suggestive for pretty and artistic com-
binations.
FIG. 49.
center and outlined edges. This method of applying these filling stitches
will be found quite simple, and as they require but little time and material
will be found economical as well as effective.
52 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
LEAF BORDER SHOWING COMBINATION OF STITCHES.
The design shown here is a section of border of leaves for lunch cloth.
The edges of leaves are finished with buttonhole stitch over German cord,
which can be clearly seen. The surface of upper leaf is then filled with star
Stitch. The leaf at the right of corner leaf is filled with crowsfeet stitch, while
the leaf atleft of corner is filled with honey-comb stitch. This method of
can be repeated throughout the entire design of which our illustra-
filling
tion shows but a section, and other filling stitches not shown here can be
APPLICATION OF STITCHES. 53
used in connection, but the ones here shown are the simplest and most
popular of the filling stitches, and are used on all conventional designs
where solid work is not intended — indeed, they may be used on a design
having solid embroidery on some of its parts.
Figure 51 is especially suited for applique work. The leaf and vine is
The design here given is, of course, only a portion of complete vine,
but sufficient is shown to clearly explain mode of working. As to colors,
54 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
one must use a little judgment and taste in the selection. If the leaves are
of dark green velvet the silk used should be of a much lighter shade of the
same, while if the leaves and vine be cut from ecru or cream colored velvet
the couching and rope silk used may be in all the various tints of autumnal
foliage, yellow, brown, green, olives, terra cotta, and so on through the list.
effectively applied. In general, short and long stitch can be used where-
ever Kensington stitch would be appropriate, and also in many instances
where the latter stitch would be too heavy, notably, in portions of con-
rope silk should be used for this part of the work. The center of the flower
may be worked with pale green filo floss in satin stitch. To make up the
cushion, after the flower-shaped center has been finished: Cut a circle out
of cotton wool, using a breakfast plate as a guide to cut the circle by.
The wool circle should be at least two inches thick. Place this circle in
the center of a square of deep olive green surah silk, fold over the corners
of the silk to the center of the circle, and fasten in tiny plaits to the w^ool,
and close enough to the edge of the circle to form a generous pufTing
around it; the cushion is now ready for the flower-shaped cover which
must be fastened in the center of the circle and on the side where the silk
is folded over. Suspend the cushion to a chair by means of a pink satin
ribbon fastened on with invisible stitches, just under the edge of the cover.
The shapes for the center cover of these pretty head-rests for chairs
56 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
may be cut from a variety of designs — large single peonies, sunflowers and
single roses, slightly conventionalized -can all be made effective. In adapt-
ing a sunflower, the embroidery will look best done with some one of the
shades of yellow.
SHADING CONVENTIONAL DESIGNS.
In strictly conventional designs there is, properly speaking, no such
thing as shading — a combination of colors that are effectively contrasting
or harmonious is
APPLICATION OF STITCHES. 57
This design of fruit, with foliage, is suited for table linen, either scat-
tered over a large surface, as a table cloth, or used in corners of mats or
napkins. The outlines are all first treated in stem stitch with etching silk,
and the spaces afterwards filled in with the fancy stitches, as shown;,
in the same silk. These stitches have been previously described, so we
will confine our remarks to the colors to be used. On table linen ladies
incline to pure white or the lightest, daintiest tints of a color. We suggest
several combinations, any one of which would be beautiful and correct.
First combination, pure white for stems, leaves and outlines, and for
The foregoing illustrations and suggestions will give the reader a gen-
eral idea of the proper use and combination of embroidery stitches, and
will serve as a stimulus to the inventive worker, who will not be satisfied to
blindly follow our models, but will seek to mark out new lines of work for
herself.
DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE
AND PROFIT.
58
SHADING.
we are a little prolix on the subject. The woman who has an artist's eye
for color needs no instruction in shading; but, unfortunately, she is sadly
in the minority, and our efforts in this chapter must be devoted to her less
fortunate sisters.
Reduced to a system, shading is shorn of half its difficulties. In the
first place, there is a proper way to purchase embroidery threads, which,
when followed, gives satisfactory and certain results.
Embroidery threads are dyed in several different shades of each color,
and as each manufacturer has his own method of putting up and number-
ing his silks, it will be necessary for us to select one brand of silk and refer
to it exclusively throughout the different lessons given in these pages. For
convenience we will select the shade card* and numbers of Belding
Brothers & Co. There are other manufacturers of embroidery threads
whose outputs possess equal merit in regard to quality, fast dyes and
artistic shades, and in selecting one brand of silk from which to illustrate
the same manner as the silks, so that the rule for selecting and using one
will do for all.
*NoTE.— We have & Co., that upon receipt of lo cents they will mail
arranfjed with Messrs. Belding Bros.
to readers of "Dainty Work" a complete color ami oi embroidery silks, properly grouped and numbered.
Attached to same is an extended shading table indicating most appropriate colorings to select for specific
work. Mention "Dainty Work"' and address, (enclosing lo cents) Belding Bros. & Co., Silk Manufacturers,
Fifth Ave. and Quincy St., Chicago, 111.
5
6o DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
SELECTING SHADES.
To begin, we will explain a little about the colors and shades of silk to
be purchased for embroidery purposes from our shade card. Each color is
made in several different shades, but the number of shades any given color
is made in varies. For convenience in reference, we will give here a small
table of the colors, together with the number of shades in each color.
TABLE OF COLORS.*
The numbers of the colors are given inclusive, thus 1201 to 1204 means
that both numbers are to be included.
White, three shades, 1200 to 1202; Cardinal Red, ten shades, 1204 to
1213; Flame Red, seven shades, 1340 to 1346; Cherry Red, six shades, 1288
to 1293; Old Pink, five shades, 1220 to 1224; Rose Pink, five shades, 1335 to
1339; Bronze Green, six shades, 1214 to 1219; Olive Green, six shades, 1248
to 1253; Apple Green, four shades, 1240 to 1243; Grass Green, five shades,
I320to 1324; Sage Green, four shades, 1280 to 1283. Lily Green, five shades,
1375 to 1379; Silver Green, five shades, 1330 to 1334; Peacock Green, five
shades 1272 to 1276; Old Blue, five shades, 1225 to 1229; Gray Blue, five
shades, 1235 to 1239; Blue, nine shades, 131 1 to 1319; Baby Blue, six shades,
1354 to 1359; Peacock Blue, five shades, 1365 to 1369; Yellows, from pale
canary to deep orange, twelve shades, 1260 to 1271; Wood Brown, six
shades, 1294 to 1299; Red Brown, three shades, 1277 to 1279; Bronze Brown,
six shades, 1305 to 1310; Golden Brown, seven shades, 1347 to 1353; Old
Rose, five shades, 1335 to 1339; Dark Terra Cotta, five shades, 1230 to 1234;
Light Terra Cotta, six shades, 1254 to 1259; Silver Gray, four shades, 1244
to 1247; Lavender, four shades, 1284 to 1287; Heliotrope, five shades, 1300
to 1304; Fawn Brown, five shades, 1360 to 1364.
The above group of colors includes all the shades manufactured by any
silk house, and from them must be selected the colors needed for any given
piece of work. Thus, blue flowers must be selected from the different lines
blue; all red flowers from the lines of red; all pink flowers from the lines
of pink; and all purple flowers from the lines of purple.
From the list of colors given, it will be seen that there are different
varieties of the same color; thus, there are blues and blues, green «:«^ greens;
now, the different lines of the same color are rarely combined in the same
Note.— See foot note on preceding page.
SHADING. 6i
As we have before hinted, any rule for shading is half mastered when
the worker knows how to purchase or select materials. It may seem a
simple thing to go into a shop and select silks for a rose spray, a poppy, or
so simple a flower as a buttercup, but not one lady in twenty can accom-
plish the feat with any comfort to the clerk or satisfaction to herself.
In shading there are three points to be considered. First, the color of
In working red poppies the line of flame reds should be used. This
line has seven shades, and if the pattern shows several poppies the entire line
can be brought into requisition, but not necessarily all in one flower. The
lighter shades of the line will be used for the high lights and the outer edge
of petals, then two shades next deeper will be blended in to work the body of
flower, and for the markings at base of petals the deepest shade of the line
should be used. Some varieties of red poppies show purplish markings at
the base of petals, but these should not be attempted in embroidery. There
are limitations in art needlework, and this is one of them. What would
present a beautiful effect of light and shade done with either oil or water
colors, would be but a patchy affair if attempted with the needle and the
colors at our command in embroidery threads.
But to return to our purchasing. Having selected your first line of
colors, require the clerk to put away all the silks you have been selecting
from, and proceed to the next color; repeat this until you have completed
your purchases. This will save the clerk a great deal of time and trouble,
and spare yourself annoyance and uncertainty, and when you are through
with your shopping you can return home with the consciousness that you
have purchased just the right thing. This method of selecting embroidery
threads leaves nothing to accident or whim, and thus will be avoided inhar-
monious and ignorant shading.
SHADING. 63
face that is shaded from light to dark in the same color and with gradual
blending. We must, of course, consider the position of the flower or foli-
age; thus, in shading most flowers presenting a full front view — see figure 55
the rule is to begin at the tip of the
the lily greens will produce natural shading; for chrysanthemums, some
SHADING. 65
varieties of geraniums, fuschias and a few varieties of rose leaves the sage
greens should be used.
In shading autumn leaves and foliage — such as oak, maple, mountain
ash, Virginia creeper, begonia, sumac, etc., we have at our command all the
greens, browns, olives, bronzes, flame reds and orange yellows, and with
these can be wrought out a very dream of autumnal glory.
For shading grasses and ferns, apple and grass greens are usually
employed, and where the background will permit, a little bronze green and
olive brown may be added to represent ripened grass and ferns. For rose
foliage all or any of the greens may be used; and for any foliage mentioned
above, where the background will not permit the use of natural shading, the
olive and bronze greens may be substituted.
The stalks of plants are better represented with either wood or red
brown, though in case of young and tender stalks the lightest shade of
green used in the foliage may be employed.
Having discussed natural shading, which may also be called popular
shading as well, we come to art or conventional shading, which is quite
another thing. Here we may work a rose in blue, or any other color our
fancy may dictate, provided the design has been slightly conventionalized.
This style of shading is used in the societies of decorative art, and among
people whose taste has been cultivated in this direction. The amateur
embroideress will find it hard to reconcile her ideas of the eternal fitness of
things with a flower wrought out in colors never dreamed of by Nature, in
connection with that particular plant, at least. However, time and contact
with artistic work will modify this taste for flowers mi 7iaUiral, both as to
form and color, and gradually will she incline to subdued tints and shades
for her art needlework. There is a distinct tendency to so conventionalize
our old familiar friends of the flower garden that we find it hard to recog-
nize them in their new dress and colorings; but one must admit that a frieze
instead of selecting for a model a tulip of bright yellow, work out the
design in dull yellows, with a hint of brown in them — the golden brown of
our shade card used throughout the entire flower will give the desired
effect. If a red, red rose is desired, instead of using the bright and glaring
reds, go down to the bottom of the line of reds and select the three darkest
shades. The effect of this shading is rich in the extreme, and does not
offend the taste of those people who cannot become reconciled to a blue
rose.
harmony of colors, she should be able to obtain all the artistic results of
which the materials are capable. Without this eye for harmony she may
yet obtain beautiful and correct results, but in less variety, by simply fol-
Granted, but we must not have too much of it; like every other good
still
thing it has its drawbacks— fashion is fickle, dust clings lovingly to its lux-
urious folds and obstinately refuses to "move on," and last, but by no
means least, it is more expensive than its legitimate sister, flat or art em-
68 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
broidery, and will not wear so well — in short, will not be "a thing of beauty
and a joy forever."
Under the head of art embroidery will be considered Roman embroi-
dery, applique, outline, solid Kensington, and those embroideries wrought
out with combination of filling stitches applied to articles of use or ornament.
The groundwork of all embroidery has been thoroughly laid in
chapters V, VI and VII, which teach the method of making and applying the
stitches and the proper shading of designs. The province of this chapter
will be to make practical application of those lessons given in previous
chapters, and also to give more complete detail of subjects treated therein
whenever necessary.
Art embroidery is suitable for decorating all and every article that one
may wish to embellish with needlework; the same, however, cannot be said
of raised embroidery, whose field of usefulness is indeed limited; but more
of this in its proper order.
ROMAN EMBROIDERY.
Roman embroidery is used upon articles of ornament or use, either
alone or in combination with other styles of decorative needlework. As
we wish to refer to it in future pages, we will here describe the method of
working.
This form of embroidery is very ancient and never goes out of style;
when nicely done, a piece of Roman embroidery is worthy to be handed
down as an heirloom from one generation to another. It is most generally
applied to table linen, articles of bedroom linen, curtains and cushion
either silks, velvets or cloths, and is known to some people as cut work;
however, as Roman Embroidery is the name by which it is most popularly
known, we will refer to it by that name.
To illustrate our lesson on Roman embroidery we will make use of a
design suitable for tablespread border, the full working size being 28x29
inches. See figure 58, on next page.
After stamping the design on the material, according to instructions
previously given, begin the work by putting in the lines that connect the
different portions of design; they are called lace lines. For this part of the
ART OR FLAT EMBROIDERY. 69
work etching silk or wash twist should be used, unless linen threads are pre-
ferred, in which
case Scotch linen
floss. No. 8, will
be required. In
putting in the lace
lines, begin at one
edge and carry
the thread across
to the opposite
edge of design,
and then twist the thread back upon the line
just carried across; this will give firmness to
repeated. Figure 59 shows section of design with the lace lines in. Now,
around all the outlines of design, where
the lines begin and end, work a button-
hole stitch over German cord. No. 1.
to cut away the material back of the lines. This must be done with great
70 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
care, so as not to cut either the buttonhole edge or one of the connecting
lines.
This completes the Roman embroidery proper, but, in later days, some
embellishments have been added to the design. They consist of fancy fill-
ing stitches on certain parts of the material that is not cut away. Figure 60
shows a honey-comb stitch applied to a portion of the design, and the
spaces marked i and 2 on figure 58 can be similarly treated; also the scroll
portion of design, marked 3 on figure 60, can be filled with some other
stitch, thus giving variety to the design.
There is a style of Roman embroidery much used where the edges are
finished with a buttonhole short and long stitch worked on the material
without the strengthening aid of the German cord. For some purposes
this form of the work is very pretty, but it is not in the least durable and
should not be used on articles that are to receive much wear or that are to
be frequently laundered.
To summarize: In making Roman embroidery
First. Stamp design and put in the lace lines, being careful to twist
back on each thread carried across. This twisting is done by simply wind-
ing the needle around the lace lines until the opposite margin is reached-
Second. Work all outlines of design with buttonhole stitch over Ger-
man cord.
Third. Fill spaces of design with such filling stitches as are preferred.
Fourth. Cut away material back of the lace lines, cutting close to the
edge of the buttonhole stitch, taking care not to cut the buttonhole edge or
one of the lace lines. The above instructions contain all there is of mys-
tery in the modus operandi of working Roman embroidery.
The expense of making Roman embroidery is, comparatively speaking,
light. It can be done in white or colored threads, but in any case very
little material suffices to work out quite an elaborate design.
Many ladies combine floral em^Droidery with the Roman. Thus the
ends of towels, scarfs, center cloths, etc., will be finished with a Roman
embroidered border, and the surface of material above the border will be
embroidered solidly or with filling stitches, the combination of the two
styles of work being beautiful.
72 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
PRACTICAL EMBROIDERIES.
Embroideries done on wash fabrics with washable embroidery threads
will at once commend themselves to the wise and economical housekeeper,
and dining and bedroom linens offer a field for decorative effort in which
the home-loving woman never tires of working.
Table cloths, lunch sets, sideboard scarfs, doyleys, carving cloths, veg-
etable mats, tray cloths, pillow shams, scarfs, bedspreads, bureau and com-
mode scarfs, splashers, tidies, toilet sets for dressing table, all should be
made with a view to cleanliness, and this cannot be accomplished unless
the articles are made from and embroidered with materials that will bear
repeated laundering.
The articles mentioned above should all be decorated with art embroi-
dery, and whether the design selected be conventional or natural, any of
the stitches, except plush stitch, shown in Chapter V, can be employed in
working. The embroidery threads to be used are a matter of taste, to a
certain extent; for very fine linen or sheer fabrics, filo floss or Royal floss
will be found to give good results, while for buttonhole stitch, outline
stitch and some of the filling stitches, etching silk will be found better
adapted. In case one wishes to use Scotch linen embroidery threads instead
of silks, Scotch linen floss, No. 8 or No. 4, will be required. Gold thread is
and commode scarf, a stand cover made of good domestic linen, and em-
broidered with wash silk or linen threads in simple outline stitch, and all
immaculately clean, are certainly within the reach of the poor and busy;
and what an air of dainty home comfort they will lend to the poorest bed-
chamber. Who would stop to notice that the bedstead and bureau were of
commonest pine— in a word, that the room was poorly and plainly fur-
nished. All that would appeal to the senses would be the air of sweet
cleanliness, the dainty womanly touches that can make the poorest spot on
earth breathe of home, rest and comfort.
If a little womanly care will do so much for the sleeping apartment,
what may not be expected from an equal amount of care expended upon
the dining-room, ever the true keynote of the whole home life.
Quiet elegance can be imparted to the plainest appointed table by
clean and shining glass and china, which may be but common delf, and
proper, though cheap, table linen in cleanly order.
Every dining-room should possess a sufficient amount of table napery
to last from one wash day to the next, and an extra set for emergencies.
In the days of our great-grandmothers plain dinner napkins and damask
linen table cloths alone were understood when dining-room linen was men-
tioned. Now the number of pieces of linen are seemingly limited only by
the number of dishes on the table.
"best." After these, napkins, and of these there should be a plentiful sup-
ply. Having secured the necessary linen, one can let her fancy have free
range through the list of modern table linen, including lunch cloths, center
pieces and table runners, tray and carving cloths, vegetable mats, fruit and
finger bowl doyleys, mats for oil and vinegar cruets, mats for water service,
doyleys for fish, corn, baked potatoes and hot roils; butter and cheese-
74 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
plate mats; lunch sets, consisting of center piece, cup doyleys and plate
doyleys, with individual doyleys for the different dishes, such as sal-
ads, cold meats, etc. These lunch sets are generally used without a table
cloth, in which case the dining table should have a handsome polish.
For the benefit of such of our readers as are unfamiliar with the names
and uses of the different
pieces of table linen, we
will here append a small
descriptive list, which we
trust will be of practical
help.
Table Cloth.— A
cloth for covering the ta-
ble before the dishes are
placed for the meal.
Lunch Cloth.—A
cloth especially designed
for luncheons, either fam-
ily luncheons or those
given to a number of
friends. The lunch cloths
LUNCH CLOTH. FIG. 6l. are usually not as large as
the ordinary table cloth, and are decorated with needlework in the corners
or around the borders. Where an evening entertainment, such as a card
party, is given, refreshments are generally served on small tables, at which
not more than four people are seated; in such cases the lunch cloths are
smaller, being not over a yard square, and the needlework is so placed as
to appear upon the top
of the table. Our illustration shows section of a
lunch cloth made of plain satin damask and embroidered with conventional
design. The ribbon portion of the pattern is one and a half inches wide,
worked with simple darning stitch. See figure 6i. The edges of ribbon
are then outlined. The flowers are worked in solid Kensington stitch, in
ART OR FLAT EMBROIDERY. 75
pure white, with a tiny French knot of pale yellow in the center of each.
The ribbon is worked with pale lily green. Royal floss is used to work this
design, which is repeated on each of the four corners.
Napkin. — A square of linen cloth used at
table for wiping the mouth and fingers. The sizes
platters are used. The cloth should come out beyond the edge of the plat-
ter at least three or four inches. The edge can be hemstitched or fringed,
76 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
as described for tray cloth. The design may be floral or conventional. We
here show, in figure 64, a very pretty pattern for the end of a fish cloth. It
the shades here given. Simple outline stitch will be all that is necessary for
working the entire design.
Table Runner. — A long scarf of linen, satin damask, silk or
bolting silk, having ©nds or sides decorated with needlework. This runner
is to be placed down the exact center of the table, and should reach within
ten inches of either end. the width of the runner depends upon the width
of table, but from twenty to twenty-seven inches is the usual size. A table
runner is used for the same purpose as is a center cloth. The relishes,
flowers, fruit and such ornamental dishes as are to remain upon the table
throughout the meal are to be placed upon it.
doyleys have a design similar to but smaller than that used on the center
cloth. These lunch sets, as their name indicates, are used for formal
luncheons, and consist of as many cup and plate doyleys as there are per-
rs DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
sons to be served, a center cloth and mats or doyleys for salad dishes, etc.
The favorite fabric for making these sets is satin damask, and they may be em-
broidered with either silk or linen
threads. Figures 67 and 68 show
center piece and cup doyley of a
geranium lunch set. The plate
doyley is a circle having a row of
small geranium leaves arranged
around it in the form of a wreath.
The center piece of this partic-
ular set is but 18 inches across,
and the cup doyley but nine
inches. It will be seen from the
illustrations that the set is worked
with short and long stitches with
buttonhole edge, the veins being
worked with outline stitch. The
three lightest shades of lily green
FIG. 67.
will be required for this purpose;
use the lightest shade on outside edge of leaves, and blend into it
and inside this a row of short and long stitches will give a rich effect. The
ART OR FLAT EMBROIDERY. 79
cord over a puffing of deep golden yellow China silk. By this arrangement
the covering of the cozy can be unlaced and removed for cleaning when
soiled. The cozy should be made to fit the tea or coffee pot, and a good
way to get the dimensions is to measure the height and width of the tea or
coffee pot and allow an extra two inches each way. Then out of stiff paper
cut a piece the right size and round off the upper corners, making a half-
80 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
circle, or nearly so. Now cut an inner lining of sateen and an outer lining
ferred worked over the two pieces. Lace these embroidered pieces over
the foundation by means of eyelet holes worked into each scallop, through
which art cord is laced back and forth. We think that with the help
afforded by the illustration no difficulty will be
encountered in duplicating. The material
and colors are matters to be decided by per-
sonal preference.
Mat for Water Service.— A mat to
taken over German cord. The surface of the mat is then darned with Bar-
garren art thread through each mesh of the fabric. Any color that will
harmonize with the other decorations can be used. Figure 72 shows a mat
ART OR FLAT EMBROIDERY.
made after this idea. Other styles of decoration can be used, as it is a
perfect order, and those articles that are to be ornamented with needlework
should be more elaborately embroidered than those used commonly.
There are many little articles of bed-room furnishing that depend, for
their beauty, upon the good taste that presides over their ornamentation,
rather than upon expensive materials. Following, will be found an illus-
trated list of articles that can be made at home for sleeping rooms
that will suggest to the ingenious woman work for many an otherwise idle
hour.
purpose, and any one of these fabrics forms an excellent background for
embroidery done with either silk or linen threads. The size and shape of
bed spreads vary. Some made long enough
are to come up over the pil-
lows, in place of pillow shams; some are made just the size of the top of
the bed; others come from the bottom of the bed to the lower edge of the
pillows, and fall over the side board of the bedstead. The shams used
with this latter style of spread are made in one piece, and reach across the
top of bed, over the pillows. The full page illustration of draped beds shows
a sham of this kind. The decoration may be an all-over design, or a cor-
ART OR FLAT EMBROIDERY. 83
ner piece with a handsome center, or a border around the sides and across
the ends. •
the head of the bed, over the pillows. They can be made as ornamental as
desired, or as simple. The hems are generally finished with hemstitching,
and the center ornamented with design; sometimes a monogram or initial
is added.
Pillow Scarf .—A long scarf, preferably of fine linen or bolting silk,
though other materials can be used. This scarf should be from one and a half
to three yards long and 27 to 36 inches wide. The ends can be fringed out, or
hemmed and row of drawn work added above the hem. Above this
a
should be embroidered a design of flowers, done solidly in fine silk or linen
threads. The sides should also be
hemmed. Tie the scarf in the middle
with a large bow of ribbon and suspend
on a hook placed in the top of head
board; the ends of the scarf fall over
the pillows, making a very graceful bed
trimming.
Commode and Dresser
Scarfs. — A strip of linen or other
white wash fabric, just as wide as the top
of dresser or commode and long enough
to fall easily over the ends. The designs
and style of work may be done to suit the
worker's fancy. The ends may be
hemmed, fringed or trimmed with lace.
Figure 74 shows a white linen scarf hav- fig. 74.
ing the ends finished in Roman embroidery with white etching silk.
Toilet Sets —Usually consist of one mat for cushion to rest on, one
large and small cushion and a
pair of covered bottles. These
articles can be made as orna-
mental as one chooses. Figures
75, "jd and 'j'j show large cushion
and pair of bottles covered with
white bolting silk, worked in
Other models than those here shown can be used for toilet sets, and,
the coverings may be made of plain lawn, bolting silk, or even fine shirt linen
and decorated with embroidered designs done in outline or solid Kensing-
ton stitches. ____,,.„.__
same material
Oftentimes the .^^f"^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ ^"*^ designs are
and as the charge for even good sized cushions is very moderate it hardly
pays to bother with this part of the work. Where it is desired to make the
cushion at home a few hints may be helpful. First, bran makes the best
possible filling, and the cushion should be stuffed with it until no more
can be packed in. A blunt piece of iron or wood is a great help in pushing
the bran into the corners.
ART OR FLAT EMBROIDERY. 85
and buttonhole outline, that we feel the subject cannot be too fully dis-
cussed.
There are so many of our sisterhood who have neither time, eyesight
nor means to indulge in intricate and elaborate needlework, and who, not
having the least conception of the beauty and easy accomplishment of out-
line embroideries, settle the matter by ignoring the subject of decorative
needlework in toto, that we feel we shall have failed in accomplishing the
purpose of this book, as set forth in the introduction, did we not fully and
clearly set before the readers all the possibilities of the simpler forms of
decorative needlework.
PILLOW SHAMS.
As an illustration of what can be accomplished in this direction with
little time and money we will give an example of outline, and outline com-
bined with other stitches, applied to articles of household use.
A pair of pillow shams of bleached cotton factory are quite good
enough for everyday service, and will cost, ready stamped, with real Scotch
linen floss No. 8 for working in outline, 40 cents. If the design selected
be pretty and graceful and the work neatly done, the result will delight the
heart of the most fastidious house-
keeper. The model we have in mind
as we write consisted of a wide scroll
through the center of sham, on which
were the words, "Sweet Dreams."
Springing from top and bottom of
the scroll was a graceful arrange-
ment of eight full-blown poppies,
two buds, eight leaves, and stems.
Thus it will be seen the design was
quite elaborate. Figure 78 shows ^ fig. 78.
one poppy done in simple outline, and the whole design was so worked.
If more elaborate work be desired the design can be wrought out with
pointed buttonhole short and long stitch for the poppies, and simple
86 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
short and long stitch for the leaves, with outline stitch for the stems. The
additional cost would be about 25 cents. Figure 79 shows the pointed
short and long stitch, which made by taking five stitches as follows: one
is
short stitch, which for convenience we will call No. i; then a stitch a little
longer, which we will call No. 2, and
another stitch still longer, which will
be No. 3. Having worked these
three stitches in the order named,
side by side, and from left to right,
longest determines the depth to which the leaf or petal will be worked,
and the length of this stitch must be determined by the size of the design.
Figure 80, as we have said, shows a leaf of poppy worked with simple
short and long stitch, which has been fully described in the chapter on
stitches.
only and others with the simple short and long stitch, as shown in figure 80,
and of course work the stems in outline. One shade of silk or linen can be
used for all the work. The letters on the scroll, as well as the outlines of the
scroll itself, should be worked out with the outline stitch, or if a more elab-
orate effect is desired satin stitch may be substitutedo
ART OR FLAT EMBROIDERY. 8;
SPLASHERS.
The two designs shown in figure 8i are excellently adapted for splash-
ers, and for either of them the simple outline stitch alone will be quite
enough, for from the nature of the pattern the effect will be elaborate.
However, if time and inclination permit, a few fancy filling stitches can be
added to certain portions of the design on the right. For instance, the
crescents can be filled with plain darning stitch, the petals of the star-shaped
flower can be filled with honey-comb stitch and the triangle-shaped spaces
with crowsfeet, while the outlines of these and the balance of design can be
outlined. In case this plan of working is followed two shades can be effect-
ively employed, as white and yellow, green and white or blue and white, or
two shades of one color.
FIG. 8l.
For the design on the left —the flight of birds — outline stitch alone will
be far more effective and appropriate. The birds can be outlined with
three shades of fawn brown; that is, work one bird in one shade, the second
bird in another shade, and the third bird in still a deeper shade of the same
color. The water lines can be worked with an old blue, one shade; while
for the lilies use cream white, and for the lily pads and flag stalks use two
or three of the shades used in working the birds. Of course any other
scheme of coloring can be followed out. We merely offer the above as a
suggestion, for in fact the entire pattern could be correctly worked with
only one shade if it were so desired. The amount of material necessary for
these splashers will be two pieces of butcher's linen or brown crash, 27 x 36
inches. Hem the edge with hemstitching. For the design on the left will
be required, of Scotch floss No. 8, one skein of each of the colors men-
88 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
tioned in this connection. For the design on the right, three skeins of the
color used for the outline and one skein for the fancy stitches will be suffi-
cient.
rosette stitches and d'Alencon bars, worked with art cord and the outlines
finished with rope silk in outline stitch.
The method of working the three stitches mentioned will be found in
Chapter V.
SCARFS.
Figure 83 shows designs for three scarfs, suitable for either sideboard
or dressing case. Butcher's linen, huckabuck, domestic linen or satin dam-
ask can be used for the scarfs, though of course the last-named fabric is
the most expensive. Two yards of 4oinch butcher's or domestic linen will
make two scarfs, costing, according to the quality of linen, 80 cents or one
FIG. 83.
dollar for the pair. The sides should be finished with a narrow hem hem-
stitched down, and the ends with either a fringe formed by raveling out the
linen to the depth of nine inches, or with torchon lace sewed on, or with a
hemstitched hem, with a row or two of drawn work above. The designs on
all three of these scarfs are purely conventional. The one on the scarf at
the left is a very graceful scroll, which will look exceedingly well outlined,
and having the surface of design filled in with open basket stitch. Another
effective treatment would be to outline the stems, leaves and stamens, and
fill all the rest of design with short and long stitch. To work the design
in the manner indicated last will require six skeins Real Scotch linen floss,
or eighteen skeins Royal floss silk; while for the treatment first mentioned,
about half the amount named would suffice.
90 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
The center scarf is a beautiful design in Roman embroidery, and should
be worked according to instructions given for that style of work at the
beginning of this chapter. The design in question is very lacy and light,
owing to the great number of lace or connecting lines. The material for
working this scarf may be either silk or linen; if the former is used two
dozen skeins wash twist, six skeins of German cord, No. i, and one dozen
skeins etching silk will be required. Use the wash twist for the lace lines
and for buttonholing over the German cord around all the outlines, and use
the etching silk for filling in all the star-
shaped figures with fancy filling stitches — of
which there may be a variety, or only one
throughout entire design, as preferred. Hon-
ey-comb, brick, star, crowsfeet and darning
will all combine effectively. For the very
center of each star figure crochet over a
brass ring, large enough to cover the circle
and having the surface from end to end covered with a daisy pattern. This
scarf can be used as a cover for side board, runner for dinner table or as a
dressing case scarf; etching silk should be used for the stitches around the
edges and filo floss for the design over the surface; two shades of pink, blue
or brown will be effective.
ART OR FLAT EMBROIDERY. 91
DOYLEYS.
There are many different methods of decorating doyleys, chief among
which are the all-over and the Dresden designs. The former style is well
represented by the two illustrations shown in figures 85 and 86. The two
designs are given full working size and can be transferred to the material
according to the directions given in The edges of doyleys
Chapter IV.
are usually finished with a very narrow hemstitched hem. To work figure
85 will require four skeins of filo ftoss, as follows: Shades Nos. 1202, 1240,
1242 and 1260; as will be seen from the table of shading, these colors
9^ DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
are pure white, pale green, dark green and pale yellow. Use the
white for the clover heads, the pale yellow for outlining the circles, the
dark green for the clover leaves and the pale green for working the dotted
vines that connect the circles; or, a very good effect can be produced by
using both shades of green in this portion of the design, outlining the vines
with the deeper shade and working the dots with the lighter shade of green.
The stitches necessary will be outline for vines, circles, clover heads and
ART OR FLAT EMBROIDERY. 93
leaves, and spot stitch for working the dots at the end of the vines. The
four skeins of silk necessary to be purchased in order to secure the shades
mentioned will not be used in working this design once, in fact but a few
threads from each skein will be needed; same colors can be
but the
employed for working figure 86, using the white for the snowdrop and
flower, the pale yellow for the center of flower, also to outline circle; use
the two shades of green for working the foliage of snowdrop and the
maiden hair ferns that connect the circles. As will be seen from the
example given above a variety of designs can be wrought out with the same
colors, and it is well, in selecting patterns, to bear this in mind, as it saves
purchasing so many more skeins of silk or linen than are actually needed
for the work in hand.
There are many new and beautiful designs for small fruit and finger
bowl doyleys that are designed to be worked in solid Kensington stitch.
As doyleys for the purposes named above are rarely over four to five inches
square it follows that the designs for them must be of a light and dainty
character, and where it is wished to use large sized flowers for this purpose,
they must of necessity be drawn in miniature.
Figure 87 shows a set of six doyleys ornamented with flowers in minia-
ture, designed for solid Kensington stitch. The designs for this set were
drawn expressly for this book and are among the most artistic floral
arrangements we have ever seen.
The materials for these doyleys may be bolting silk, linen lawn, or fine
shirt linen. The edges may be hemstitched or fringed, but the former
mode of finishing is the one most commonly employed.
No. 2. Morning Glories. For this design will be required of filo floss
green, Nos. 1240, 1241, 1242; pink, Nos. 1288, 1289, 1290; by comparing
these numbers with those indicated for the narcissus doyley, it will be seen
94 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
that but one additional shade of green is required, namely 1242. Use the
last named shade for the veins, stems and shaded portion of leaves; for the
tendrils and calyx use'the lightest shade. The throat of the morning glory,
inside and outside, should be worked with the palest shade of pink and be
lightly streaked with the shade next deeper. The edge of the petal should
be worked with the two deepest shades; for the buds use No. 1290.
No. 3. Peach Blossoms. For this design pale pink, white, pale yellow
and a shade of brown filo floss will be required. Work the blossoms over in
FIG. 87.
solid Kensington stitch with the white filo floss, then with the pale pink,
No. 1288, work over this lightly in the same stitch; fill the center with a
French knot of pale yellow. No. 1260. For the leaves and the young stems
use the pale green, No. 1240, and for the branch use the brown. No. 1296.
For this design only one additional color will be needed, namely. No. 1296,
All the others having been used in doyleys No. i and 2.
design of poppies, wrought out with elaborate detail, we should prefer the
line of silver green for the foliage; but in this design there is so small a
surface of green that those shades used for the narcissus and morning
glories will answer very well. In working the foliage use the lightest shade
of green for the turned leaf, and the darkest shade, or No. 1242, for the
under side of the same leaf; for the stem and bottom portions of seed pod
use the brown, shade No. 1296; for the top of seed pod use the lightest
universally held dear, either for the sake of its almost intelligent beauty or
for the sake of old memories and associations. At all events it is certainly
the flower of the rich and poor alike. In shading pansies it is more satis-
factory to select a cluster and shade them as near like the original as the
silk thread will permit. To give a rule for shading pansies would be like
giving a cut and dried receipt for making human faces and we fancy the
result would be almost the same in either case, an absolute failure; how-
ever, as there are some ladies who insist on having a receipt or rule for
everything they do, we will try to give a simple shading that can be easily
followed. But, ah! if the reader loves the pansy, how tame and spiritless
will seem the result. When embroidering this flower we always feel as
though it has a sentient existence, and we are therefore in honor bound to
do it justice; to give expression to its inmost thought and feeling — for who
can look at the lovely and expressive face of a pansy and doubt for a
moment that it docs think and feel.
For a deep purple pansy, four shades of purple filo floss, Nos. 1300,
1301, 1302 and 1304 will be required; for the eye or spot in the center, a
pale yellow may be used. No. 1260 will answer, and for the stem and calyx
Nos. 1241 and 1242. Begin at the outer edge of the top petal and with the
lightest shade of purple work to the center, blending in gradually the
deeper sliades. For the lower or under petals, the rule may be reversed,
beginning at the edge with the deepest shade and blending in to the center
shirt linen, worked with white embroidery cotton, linen floss or silk floss.
Figure 88 shows a small square fruit doyley, with a leaf design suitable
ART OR FLAT EMBROIDERY. 97
for this kind of work. The stems are worked with heavy outline stitch,
the lower half of each leaf is worked in satin stitch taken at an angle,
of about 45 degrees as shown in figure 17, on page 32. The surface of
that part of the leaf is first raised, by taking running stitches length-
wise with two or three threads of linen floss threaded in a large-eyed
needle; after this filling is in, work the satin stitch smoothly and firmly over
it. The upper half of the leaf may be made very effective by working the
edge to the depth of one half-inch with satin stitch, following the outline
of the leaf, and filling in the balance of the surface with either French
knots, spot or seed stitches; or, the upper portion of some of the leaves in
the design may have spot stitch, some seed stitch, while others may be
filled with French knots. Indeed, this combination is very effective where
there are several leaves in the design. Figure 89 shows a style of decora-
tion that is equally effective worked out with solid Kensington stitch or
satin stitch, in pale lily green Royal floss; or, pure whitemay be used with
equally artistic results. The two figures here presented may well form
part of a set of six or twelve doyleys, each one of which may have a differ-
ent pattern. If the designs shown in figures 88 and 89 are used they should
be enlarged four times.
row of stitches another row of plain short and long stitch, and into thi€
again another row, using a deeper shade of the brown. No. 1348. Work
the leaves and petals with this blended short and long stitch into at least
two-thirds their depth. For the leaves use a deep golden brown, shade
No. 135 1, and work the stems in solid Kensington stitch with shade No.
1353. Fill the center of the flower with French knots, worked close
98 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
together, with No. 1351. After the embroidery has been finished cut away
outlines of the pattern. Be
allthe material from the edges, following the
careful not to cut the buttonhole edge.
To blend one row of short and
stitches in the first row, not
long stitches into another, work between the
in lightly, allowing
crowding or working solidly as for Kensington, but fill
rather between them.
the background to show through the stitches, or
Treatment No. Outline all the edges of design with German cord,
2.
FIG. 90.
Fill the leaves with honey-comb stitch, worked with the cream white
etching silk and vein in outline stitch with the gold cord.
There are other combinations of stitches and colors that can be used
with equally good effect and which will suggest themselves to the
worker.
FLORAL CENTER CLOTH.
The center cloth shown in figure 91 is designed for Kensington effects,
and will look best wrought out on satin damask or bolting silk, with file or
FIG. 91.
Royal floss. The colors may be nearly or quite true to naturk or they may
be slightly conventionalized. Pale gold for the crescent, thr<?e shades olive
green and three shades pale pink for the floral design around the crescent,
and a combination of blue and gold, pink and brown and green and orange
harmoniously blended, for the butterflies, will produce an artistic effect.
The orange should be used very sparingly, and may be omitted altogether
ROUND CUSHIONS.
Cushions are or should be suggestive of restful comfort, and to that
end should be stuffed loosely yet with sufHcient filling to be soft, and the
outer covering should be of a material meant for usage rather than orna-
ment. Cretonne, gobelin cloth, figured silk, art linen and tapestry linen are
all suitable fabrics as they can be laundered without injury; the decoration
should be flat and done with thread that will stand both wear and cleansing.
ART OR FLAT EMBROIDERY. lOI
The shapes in which cushions have been, are, and ever will be made
are many and varied. Some are large and some are small, while they may
be round, square, oblong, high or flat as fancy suggests. In the different
pages of this book will be found further suggestions and illustrations of
this subject, but in this place we wish to show a model suited for art
embroidery which in its turn, will suggest other suitable forms of ornamen-
tation.
Our model, figure 94, shows a round cushion having a puff of wood
brown India silk around its edges. This puff is applied to the cushion
FIG. 94.
proper and is not connected with the cover, which consists of two circular
pieces of cream white gobelin cloth, about 18 inches in diameter. Only
one of these circular pieces is to be ornamented, on it draw three small
disks, using the top of a large-sized goblet for a pattern; then, with a
pencil, draw in the connecting scrolls. Or the pattern here given can be
enlarged by means of a pantagraph.
To work: Outline the disks with old blue couching silk No. 1227;
couch this down with a single thread of etching silk two or three shades
lighter, shade No. 1225 will answer very well. Over the surface of the
disks lay rope silk, shade No. 1226, solidly from one outline to the outline
opposite, and couch down with gold thread as shown in figure 25 on page
102 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
35. Work the scrolls with rope silk in heavy outline stitch with shade
No. 1228. Finish the edges of both circular pieces with a strong button-
hole edge and either work eyelet holes at regular distances apart on the
edges of both of these pieces, so that they will be exactly in line with each
other when the two covers are placed one over the other, or crochet small
brass rings over with golden brown etching silk and sew them to the edges
in place of the eyelet holes. Place the plain circle on the bottom of
cushion and the embroidered one on the top and lace them together
through the eyelet holes or rings over the puffings of silk on the side, by
means of a heavy silk cord of a color several shades lighter than that used
in the puffing. When the cushion cover is soiled it may be unlaced,
removed and laundered.
Any other scheme of harmonizing colors may be used in place of the
one suggested. In fact, the models given in a work of this kind should
serve as a stimulant to the inventive genius of the worker rather than to be
slavishly followed.
TABLE COVERS.
Covers for dining tables, where the dining-room is used for a sitting-
room as well, is a question which may prove of interest. Covers for this
purpose should always be
in keeping with the other
appointments of the room.
If the furniture is hand-
some polished oak then
some color that contrasts
or harmonizes with that
wood should be chosen.
The same is true of other
woods, as cherry, walnut
or mahogany. If the wood-
work and furniture be pol-
ished oak, then old blue^
FIG. 95, DETAIL OF FIG. 96. olivc green, amber, dark
terra cotta, Nile green, sage or lilly greens, tan and wood browns or old
rose shades will be effective and artistic. If the furniture and woodwork
ART OR FLAT EMBROIDERY. 103
of the room be black walnut then deep crimson, light old gold, rose color,
light terra cotta or pale blue will be appropriate. The quality of the ma-
terial will depend, as we said before, upon the purse of the owner or the
FIG. 96.
furnishings of the room. Felt, satteen, Morris cloth, basket silk, mail cloth
and Devonshire art cloth are all elegant and expensive, while artistic and
beautiful effects may be obtained by using hollywood drapery, Bargarren
art cloth, or tapestry linen, at half the price of the former fabrics. The
104 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
designs for decorating these spreads may be conventional or floral, but in
either case the shading should be slightly conventionalized. Broad leaves,
flowers and scrolls look best worked out with the coarse embroidery
threads, while the filling stitches, such as double basket, close basket, rosette,
point de reprise and D'Alencon bars, are all appropriate for filling portions
of the design, which may have all its outlines finished in outline stitch with
rope silk. Figure 96 shows a corner of
table spread made of Devonshire art
Bargarren art cloth is an artistic and inexpensive fabric for table cov-
ers. Our model, figure 97, shows a cream white Bargarren art cloth cover,
ART OR FLAT EMBROIDERY. 105
The border was firststamped with star shaped flowers, in groups, at regular
distances apart. See figure 97. These were outlined with Bargarren art
thread, in cream white, after
when the work is finished, If one has a smooth material that will not ad-
room windows the same materials may be employed, but the ornamentation
should be of a different character. For use in parlor and library the mate-
rialemployed should be richer than that used for other portions of the
house, and the ornamentation more elaborate. In fact a sliding scale of
elegance may be adopted, with excellent results, beginning with the sim-
plest for the sleeping and living rooms, and progressing gradually until the
hangings for doors or windows more expensive than the other furnishings.
SCREENS.
Screens, large and small, are most convenient possessions for any
housekeeper. They may be ornamental, for bedroom, parlor, library or
dining room; or they may be designed
strictly for utility — strength, rather than
beauty, being the desideratum. These
screens are desirable for verandah ser-
vice, to protect one from draughts, the
too ardent rays of the sun, or the too
curious gaze of the passer-by.
A prettily decorated screen is par-
ment and there should be some reason for its presence; so, in disposing a
cream white; sage green, three shades. After the design has been stamped
upon the satin panels they should be lined with crinoline. Both sides of
this screen can be made equally ornamental by working two pieces of satin
for each panel instead of one, not necessarily with the same design, how-
ever.
APPLIQUE EMBROIDERIES.
This style of decorative needlework is of ancient origin, being first
employed for church work. There are several styles of applique, but the one
most commonly employed is where the design is applied to the foundation,
having the edges finished with buttonhole stitch, or a cord couched down
along the outlines. Another method also much used is to stamp the
design on the foundation, which has previously been lined with some con-
trasting color. In this case the edges of the design are worked with but-
tonhole stitch or with the couched cord, after which the material is cut
away from the edges of the design. The appearance is that of inlaid work.
One of the most popular appliques is that of fine lawn or muslin upon
net. A pair of pillow shams and a spread to match, of net, decorated with
a conventional floral design, can be made up at a merely nominal expense.
Stamp the design upon the muslin, after which tack the muslin over the
io8 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
net; run with fine stitches all the outlines of the design, thus fastening them
to the net, then with fine embroidery cotton work all the outlines with fine,
light, buttonhole stitch. In the centers of flowers wheels may be worked,
while leaves may be filled with tiny seed stitches and stems worked over
with outline stitch. After this has been done, all the muslin should be cut
away from the net except the part comprising the design. After the mus-
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lin has been cut away, sprays and scrolls may be darned directly into the
net with the cotton. These sprays should always start from some portion
of the muslin design and appear to be a part of it. Figure loi will illus-
trate our meaning, and also give a good idea of the effect of net-applique
when finished. The edges of spread and shams should be finished with
buttonholed scallops.
ART OR FLAT EMBROIDERY. 109
square and a strip of the same material three inches wide and 24 inches
long can be produced a handkerchief that could not be purchased for $3.50.
With fine embroidery cotton work a tiny scallop in
buttonhole stitch along one edge of the three-inch
strip, then over the surface of the strip work seed
stitch will prove acceptable, while for something" extra nice," no decoration
can surpass a handsome monogram worked in satin stitch.
Embroidered Dresses.
Given ten yards of fine cashmere (either colored or black) and a bunch
of Royal or filo floss, the artistic embroideress will turn out a Parisian
robe "that will turn all womankind green with envy and admiration." We
remember, not long ago, the high-priced emporiums were importing Pari-
sian embroidered robes for the modest price of S50, ^75 and Sioo each.
An ingenious friend of the writer soon came out with an exact dupli-
cate of one of the costly affairs, and as her income was known to be more
than slender, it was a matter of wonder until she explained that the dress
cost her ^10, and proudly added, "I did it myself."
Many of the Roman embroidery designs can be adapted for dress
trimmings, notably those having the bot-
^^i:x::^^>^^*\Xj^j^^^ t*^"^ edge vandyked. The embroidery
EDGE FOR COLLAR AND CUFFS. should be donc with a silk thread, either
sure to place the stitches close and even. Do not take the stitch beyond the
edge of the cord on either side. This method will slightly raise the prom-
inent portions of the design. The lace or connecting lines should be
worked in outline stitch on the material, from one outline to the opposite out-
'ART OR FLAT EMBROIDERY. Ill
line of the design, and with the same silk. If the design is one showing many
plain spaces the effect can be enhanced by filling them with Janina, rosette,
point de reprise or honey-comb stitch. The effect of this method of treat-
ing designs is extremely rich, and
requires no more than mechanical
skill, as the work is not shaded but
EDGE FOR DRESSING done with one color throughout. Of
JACKET. Fig 105.
course the beauty of the work will
depend upon the exactness with which the stitches are
CORNER
,,
'^ '^
FOR
taken and the general smoothness of the work. In using dressing jacket
floral designs for street dresses it is not good taste to do the ^^^' '
for the entire design. The stitch used for this style of pattern may well bs
the solid Kensington. For neglige jackets, to be
worn during the morning hours over a dark skirt,
will give an appearance of quiet elegance that could not be obtained from
other trimming at five times the cost. Fans, parasols, bonnet crowns, all
C(»RNER FOR CREPE LISSE RUFFLES. neck and sleeve trimmings, having the
FIG. 108. edge worked in scalloped buttonhole
stitch and scattered seed or spot stitches above
the scallops, sell in the large stores for $2.50
to $3.50 per yard. These frills can be made at
home for one-quarter of the store price. Fig- SCALLOP FOR CREPE LISSE
ures 108 and 109 show a suitable scallop for this
RUFFLES. FIG. IO9.
purpose. Filo floss, a shade lighter than the crepe, is generally used.
for spot stitch will be found convenient pick-up work. The embroidery
may be done with white, blue or pink embroidery silk. These strips may
be used to finish the necks, sleeves, front edges of jackets, dresses, skirts
and dressing gowns for the little ones we love so well to deck with our
best. Many a mother's work basket is never without a little roll of flannel
strips, either embroidered or in
placed, and this exactness can be attained only by diligent practice. There
is room for ornamental needlework in the houses of worship of all Chris-
tian denominations. Aside from altar frontals and altar curtains there are
smaller articles that can be made by ladies, either privately or in the sew-
ing societies usually connected with church work. Among the latter may
be mentioned book marks, sermon cases, burses, alms bag, mats for collec-
tion plates and flower stands, and banners for the Sunday-school, especially
We will
give here a list of the materials used in ecclesiastical embroi-
deries,premising that each article must be the best to be obtained: Gold
thread, passing (this is a thread of gold and silk, mixed), filo floss, purse
silk, knitting silk, sewing silk, silver thread, colored art cords, spangles and
bullion. Of these materials floss is the most used, as it can be split and
CHURCH AND BULLION EMBROIDERIES. 117
subdivided to the smallest strand, and is used for working over the main
part of design in long stitch. Purse silk is used for the parts requiring
strength, and frequently for couchings; knitting silk, gold and silver thread
and passing for ornamental sprays; spangles and bullion for ornamenting
the raised parts of the design; gold and silver cord for finishing design.
The foundation for these embroideries should be the best velvet, plush, rep
silk or broadcloth.
For doing the embroidery there will be required frames of several sizes,
square frames are best for church embroideries; strong, unbleached linen,
that has been boiled to take out the stiffness, upon which the design is
worked, after which it is cut out and applied to the foundation; piercer,
an instrument invaluable in placing the floss and gold threads in posi-
The hands of the embroideress must be kept smooth, and for this pur-
pose a piece of pumice stone should be kept in the work basket. Ladies
whose hands are continually moist should not attempt church embroideries,
as the moisture ruins the gold and silver threads.
stitch, French knots, bullion knot, spot stitch, chain and outline stitches.
Satin stitch, spot stitch, chain stitch, outline stitch, French knots and flat
couching stitch have been described in detail in Chapter V; but in this con-
greater detail, as they form the distinctive features of all church needlework.
Couching" stitches are divided into two classes, namely, raised
couching and flat couching; in each class there are several varieties. Flat
couchings are formed of threads laid smoothly upon a foundation, and
caught to it with small stitches, brought up from the back of the work and
then returned to the back again. Raised couchings are formed by laying
the same kind upon the foundation, but over whipcord that has
of threads
been previously arranged upon it in a set design. The raised lines are
secured in the same manner as employed in flat couching. The names given
to the different varieties of couchings are taken from the direction of the
ii8 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
securing stitches, and are Basket, Battlemented, Brick, Broad, Diagonal,
Diamond, Diaper, Plain, Shell, Spider, Vandyke, Wheel, Wavy. The man-
ner of working them differs only in the patterns formed by the securing
stitches and in the direction of the whipcord in the raised designs.
The manner of working flat couching has been described, in Chapter V,
therefore we will consider raised couching more particularly in this connec-
tion. To work raised couchings, sew to the linen foundation a number of
strands of whipcord, in straight or waved lines, or they may be formed into
a set pattern; over these lines of whipcord lay gold thread or several
CHURCH AND BULLION EMBROIDERIES. 119
until the work is finished. Outline the couched design with a cord or cords
of silk or gold. x
The raised couchings are more frequently used for backgrounds, while
the flat variety is better adapted for the centers of the various devises used
as powderings or scattered all-over designs over a large surface on the
centers of altar frontals and on embroidered vestments.
Basket Raised Couching". — Figure 114 shows raised basket
couching. To work: Lay upon the foundation perpendicular lines of whip-
cord and sew them firmly into position. Take
four threads of purse silk, or four strands of
filo floss, or the same number of gold threads,
and stitch them down with purse silk of the
foundation fasten down short pieces of whipcord, cut of equal length and
arranged like the spokes of a wheel or the chief threads of a spider s web.
Fill in the whole of the foundation to be treated in this manner with the
whipcord so arranged, placing the wheels they form as near together as
possible. Place lines of filo floss over the whipcord, beginning at the cen-
120 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
ter of the wheel, and couch it down. When the floss has been couched
once around, repeat row after row until the outer ends of the whipcord
spokes have been reached. Place the couching stitches in lines on each
side of the lines of cord, so that the shape of each wheel or web may be
clearly defined.
Vandyked Couching". —A raisea couching formed with lines of
whipcord laid on the linen foundation in the shape of Vandykes. Over the
lines of whipcord lay filo floss, secured with couching stitches taken in
distances.
ceding it, to the end of the pattern. Work the next line of securing stitches
over two laid lines of the floss, but be careful not to have the securing
stitches fall directly under those in the preceding row, but place them so
that they will come in the spaces between. These securing stitches are not
taken over the entire laid surface, but are arranged to form Vandykes. Fig-
same stitch differently worked,
ure 119 shows the
as follows:Lay down two threads of purse silk,
catch them down with a stitch from the back,
also of pi^rse silk, and placed at regular dis-
tances apart along the line; work the second fig. 119.
line like the first, but place the securing stitches in it so that they will fall
are arranged in half curves, and bear some resemblance to the shape of a
scallop shell.
The preceding comprise all the important varieties of couching, though
the possibilities of new patterns and combinations are almost numberless,
and the earnest worker will not be satisfied with being a mere copyist, but
will never willingly stop short of the creative point. The illustrations
KiLr. 124. thumb and wind with the right hand. Still holding the
needle down, pull it through the material; pull up the thread to where
CHURCH AND BULLION EMBROIDERIES. 123
die needle was inserted, and allow the knot to lie evenly along the sur-
face; put the thread through to the back at this place, and repeat for a
second bullion knot. In the illustration two bullion knots are arranged
as an oval, but they can be laid down upon the material as single knots, or
in any other device.
Chain Stitch. —This stitch was an important factor in ecclesiastical
embroidery of the fourteenth century, and is again coming into use for this
class of work. To make: Bring the needle from back of the material up
in the line to be embroidered; put the needle down close to the place at
which it came out, but on the right side; repeat; hold the thread down with
the left thumb, and bring the needle out upon the line but one-eighth of an
inch below where it was inserted, and ^z/^r the thread held down; repeat
until the pattern is finished.
one or two cords couched around the outlines. We here show working
details of a design intended for ecclesiastical purposes. See figure 125.
"In church designs commence the work with raised couchings or
all
with the laying down of gold threads. These lines of gold thread are
usually worked so as to follow the wave of the part they are ornamenting.
Thus, the flower shown in figure 125 would be entirely wrought with Ijnps
of gold or silver threads, placed as the shading of the pattern indicates.
Figure 125 is much reduced from the natural size; an ornament so small as
9.
124 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
it is represented rarely has threads laid down. Wavy lines of gold are
more used than straight ones, and these are shown in the working detail in
is laid in flat lines across the surface of the foundation and caught down
with lines of purse twist of a contrasting color to the floss and laid in a con-
trary direction. These are fastened above the floss silk by catching stitches
of silk brought from the back of the work and returned there. The lines of
purse silk are laid over the floss silk at nearly equal distances from each
other, and are intended to imitate the veinings of a leaf, the threads that
catch them down being of a silk matching them in color or of a contrast-
ing shade. The space marked b shows the mode of working the floss silk
when it is passed through the foundation and not laid upon the surface. It
is a long stitch, but worked so that each stitch is placed in a slanting direc-
tion, and does not follow the preceding one with the regularity of a straight
line. The long stitch is more fully illustrated
in figure 127, where it is shown considerably
enlarged. The small space is filled with
black silk lines, which are secured by three
lines, two of gold thread and one of silk.
gle cord that surrounds the piece of work between e and b \s d. silk cord
around which a fine gold thread has been twisted, and which is couched
down with a silk thread. This working detail will be an extremely useful
piece for a beginner to try her hand upon, as it combines several of the
stitches that are used in ecclesiastical embroidery."
Another design that is also simple is shown in figure 130 on page 128.
This design ismuch reduced from the working size and is suitable for the
ends of scarf for flower stand. The main portions of the pattern are laid
in with floss couched in various patterns, as brick, flat, diamond and basket.
The stems are laid in with gold thread couched down with red purse silk;
all the design except the five branches at the top, are first worked upon a
linen foundation, which is then cut out and applied to the article to be
decorated. The outer edge of the pattern is then finished with two cords
a gold cord and a cord of black silk couched close to it. The five branch-
ing fibers are worked with gold thread and spangles upon the material
To secure this design enlarge with a pantagraph four or five times accord-
126 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
ing to the position it is to occupy, or it can be used in connection with
some other design, as powderings over a surface, in which case it may bg
worked on a smaller scale than where it is used alone as a set design.
Figure 128 shows a reduced design
for border and powderings, suitable fof
silk.
floss,
Fill
Worjc
wit);^
and
the
band in the center of the fieur-de-lis
with crimson floss laid in perpendicular
lines secured with gold thread; edge
with black knitting silk. The various
tendrils or sprays springing from tj>e
Their colorings are alternately crimson and green; the crimson shading to
pink, the green from dark to light. Surround them with black knitting silk,
and with branching fibers of gold thread and floss. The small circles are
formed of spanigles, four to each circle, caught down with green or red purse
yilk. Work the border upon a band of rep silk of a darker color than is
used for the body of the curtain or frontal. The wheels or stars on the bor-
der should be worked with gold thread or yellow purse silk, caught down
with black silk. The leaves are worked with shades of blue in long stitch,
and the stems and tendrils are formed of gold cord. Add small spangle^
where shown in the design.
The three shades of blue, green and rose color used should be perfectly
distinct from each other, and not selected as in ordinary embroidery, so
'
that one shade blends imperceptibly into the other; for although harmon-
izing, each shade must be distinct from the one above and below it.
thread. The two succeeding oval cords laid upon the goM cord are of yel-
low silk, one thick, l, and one small, m, but both cords have a silver twist
around them. The outside cord, g, is also yellow, but thicker thah either
of the others. It is caught down with black.
The center cross for altar frontal shown in figure 112, on page 116, is
more elaborate than any design we have given, and requires excellent
workmanship. This design differs from those shown in figures 125, 128 and.
129 in that some of the parts forming it are worked directly on to the silk
foundation, while other parts are appliqued on to velvet of a different color
than either the foundation or the colors used in other parts of the design.
The stitches on the cross should be worked upon white silk, the circle upon
which the cross rests should be of deep crimson silk, upon which the flori-
ated ornaments are to be appliqued. Work the boss forming the center o
the cross, and containing the center jewel, on to a linen forndation and
applique it on to deep blue velvet, which in turn must be plac^'^ d" the
these ornaments are embroidered in long stitch with three shades of green
floss. Fill in the lower part of the space they enclose with crimson silk
gold-colored purse silk. Above this lay lines of gold thread, and catch
CHURCH AND BULLION EMBROIDERIES. 140
them down with crimson silk. The points which finish the ornament should
be finished with pale blue silk in long stitch. Carry pale blue cords around
the edges of the ornament to cover the stitches connecting them to the silk
foundation. The scrolls that fill in the rounds form of lines of gold thread
caught down with blue silk, and terminate with spangles.
The designs so far given illustrate the various ways of using filo floss
in flat church embroidery. Thus, it is either laid down in even lines of one
shade of color, and kept in position with gold or silk cord placed in devices
over it, or it is worked in long stitch with three shades of color. These
shades are distinct from each other, and are worked with the lightest shade
uppermost; they never blend together, but they match in tint. If contrasts
are used, such as pink and blue upon the same leaf, they are divided either
by a line of black knitting silk or gold thread. In ecclesiastical embroi-
dery no regard is paid to copying any design in its natural colors; the de-
be seen that green and gold are more used about the powderings and bor-
derings than brighter hues, which are found in all their glory in the picture
centers. The faces of figures are worked in satin stitch with one or two
shades of flesh colors. The shade and contour of the features are managed
by the direction given to the stitches, which follow the lines that would
indicate them in an engraving. Chain stitch will undoubtedly soon be
employed again for working faces in the modern as it was in the ancient
work.
One of the richest and most popular stitches for couching background
is the spider wheel, described in "Stitches for Ecclesiastical Embroideries."
The wheels are usually made about an inch in size, and when the whipcord
which forms the raised spokes of the wheel is covered with fine gold thread,
couched down on each side of each line of cord, in such a manner as to
outline each spoke of the wheel, the effect is indeed rich and beautiful.
Upon rich fabrics open couchings are frequently laid for borders. These
are made of diagonal lines of gold caught down with crosses of colored
silk, and the center of the diamond spaces are filled in with spangles, beads
or French knots.
t.^0 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
CHURCH WORK ON CARDBOARD FOUNDATION.
Cardboard foundations forming this variety of work are used for sacred
monograms and emblems, and are invaluable when clear, distinct and raised
work is desired. This work is employed in church furnishings only for
such minor details as the emblems on stoles, bur-
133, 134, in their plain cardboard foundations. Figure 131, the triangle,
is an emblem of of the Trinity, as is also figure 132, the circle. Figure 133,
the Latin cross combined with anchor and circle, is an emblem of atone-
ment and patience, and figure 134, the Greek cross surrounded by triangle
and trefoil combined, is a symbol of the
Godhead. The manner of working is as
follows:
Select the design and trace it upon
thin Bristol board. Color the design yel-
low and cut it out carefully, leaving little
given would be required only to keep the extremities of the Greek cross,
figure 134, in position. A piece of gray hoUand, sold expressly for this
purpose, is then tightly framed, and the material to be embroidered secured
to it. If velvet or a large piece of plush, paste it down, if silk sew on with
CHURCH AND BULLION EMBROIDERIES. 131
great care, and sew round the center when the emblem is arranged. Put
the design cut from the cardboard into position and carefully tack it to
the foundation, and as soon as every part is secured cut away any stays that
have been left. The embroidery is now commenced, and is done either
with yellow purse silk or with gold twist of short
lengths. The manner of working is shown in figure
blue or red cord or gold thread, as shown in figure 135. This couched line
will take away any unevenness of outline that may have been made in the
working. The material is then cut away from the frame and the hoUand
from round the edge of the embroidery at the back. Figure 136 is an illus-
tration of a single letter worked in this manner. The exact shape and size
gold thread, and couched round with a line of black silk. The letters
"I, H. C." are worked in crimson silk and couched round with pale blue
silk. The entire design should be placed upon a background of green or
blue velvet. The "I. H. S." of figure 139 is
arranged for a banner. The I should be in
gold silk, the S in blue and the H in red. All
the letters should be outlined with a couch-
ing of black silk. The letters are to be
placed upon a white silk banner. The wreath
should be worked in satin stitch, flat, without
under padding.
These small pieces of church embroi-
be embroidered should be tacked to the framed hoUand, and the design put
on at its lowest part six inches from the end, so as to allow five inches or
more for turning up at the back to hide the lining. Both ends should be
embroidered, one design on the right and one on the wrong side of the rib-
bon, otherwise the work will not fall right when the marker is folded for
use. The marker should be finished with heavy gold fringe.
Alms bags are made in two shapes, one, a regular bag, hung
upon a ring or hoop of brass, and made of a straight piece of
velvet eleven inches wide and nine deep, joined, gathered and
sewn into a circular velvet bottom, stiffened with cardboard;
the other, the ordinary hand bag, nine inches in length, six in
width, with a front lap six inches long, upon which the motto
or emblem is embroidered. The bag is lined with white silk,
covered with colored velvet sur- ^ig, 136.
but any part that shows is
rounded with an ornamental cord of gold and silk. The upper part of the
alms bag is either curved or pointed. Alms mats are made to fit the plate,
and the monogram ornamenting them worked so as to be contained in a
square. The ornament upon a stole consists of Greek crosses worked with
CHURCH AND BULLION EMBROIDERIES. 133
gold silk. Sermon cases are made of velvet and lined with silk, and should
be covered over a cardboard foundation. The burse is used to keep the
corporal and smaller eucharistic linen in, and is a pocket made of silk over
Figure 138 shows a very pretty border, snitable for flower stand cover.
It can be easily worked in gold thread. For the scroll line lay down a
gold thread and secure it at intervals of one-sixteenth of an inch with red
purse silk. Cut the floral portion of design out of cardboard and paste
upon the foundation and work over with gold thread, as previously de-
scribed.
The lines enclosing the scroll device may be worked with three shades
of green and three shades of red
purse silk. Couch down the straight
lines and work the small pattern
between with outline and spot
stitches.
look particularly well wrought out on either blue, green or crimson velvet.
The leaves may be treated with diamond couching in gold thread; the
flowers may be worked with the same material over a cardboard foundation.
134 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
BULLION EMBROIDERY.
Bullion work is sometimes used for church embroideries in place
of the purse silk and gold thread over cardboard, and the treatment is the
same, as concerns the designs and the laying of the threads, except that the
bullion is not used in the needle, but is cut in lengths the exact size of the
width of design to be covered. Thread the needle with a yellow silk,
waxed; bring it up from the back of the material, close to the cardboard
foundation; thread one of the cut lengths of bullion on the point of the
needle and put the needle down on the oppo'
site side and pull through to the back. This
operation brings the bullion into position, and
if the length has been correctly measured the
bullion will lie smooth and even across the
cardboard; but if it has been cut too long or
too short, the work must be done over again,
as a single poor stitch will ruin the entire work.
After the cardboard has been covered, the
design should be outlined with bullion of a
different variety, or with other colored cords.
Bullion embroidery is also used to ornament
the regalias and banners of different societies,
and for heraldic devices. The designs for
After all the leaves are worked, the stems and tendrils of the vine are to be
worked directly on the velvet, without any cardboard foundation. When
outline stitch is desired for this purpose the bullion should be cut just the
length of a stitch, and each time an outline stitch is taken with the threaded
needle a piece of bullion should be threaded on the needle.
In making shields, eagles and other large devices, the foundation is
cut out of cardboard, and some portion of the design will have four or five
thicknesses of cardboard, one over the other, and each succeeding piece a
size smaller than the
first. This gives a
more raised and
rounded effect to the
work.
In making ban-
ners, a piece of stout
hoUand should be
tacked in a frame, and
the entire design
should be stamped
upon it and worked.
The same design
should also be
stamped upon the
silk composing the
^^^- ^^o-
banner, and this
should be stretched in another frame. As fast as one part of the orna-
mentation is finished it maybe cut out of the holland and tacked into posi
tion upon the banner and finished with a couched silk or gold cord.
The mottoes upon banners look best made of bullion over a cardboard
foundation. Though amateurs sometimes embroider them with gold thread
upon the silk, the effect is not nearly as rich and heavy. There are several
kinds and sizes of bullion, and introducing a variety into the same piece of
work relieves the monotony of a design worked in one color.
The trade terms for the different patterns of bullion are, checked,
smooth, and spiral, and they come in bright gold and burnished gold. The
136 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
same is true of silver bullion, which is made in the same patterns as the
gold. Where the cardboard foundation is pasted directly on to the silk or
velvet foundation, Chase's liquid glue is used for the purpose.
In finishing banners, an interlining of crinoline should be put in; the
sides should be finished with a flat band of gold lace and the ends with
heavy bullion fringe. When hung on a pole, the top should be finished
with gold cord and heavy bullion tassels. Figure 140 shows an Easter ban-
ner. It consists of three banners suspended from a standard. The founda-
tion of the three banners is white corded silk. The cross on the center
banner is made of blue silk filled in
with basket couching of gold bullion.
The lily decorating the cross is made
of silver bullion worked over card-
board.
The cross and circle on the
small banner to the left is made of
Figure 142 shows emblem suited for small banners. Work the passion
flowers in three shades of purple purse silk. Couch around the edges a
cord ui black Icnittir.g silk. For the Icives use three shades of green. For
the letters use purple, crimson and green silk. The letters should be made
CHURCH AND BULLION EMBROIDERIES. 137
terns shown.
There is no royal
road to this skill. Noth-
ing short of faithful
FIG. 142.
practice, and patience
unlimited will carry the worker to the goal of success. Next in importance
is the long stitch. This should also be practiced until the threads can be
at once placed at the exact angle desired, and in even, regular lines.
138 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
PLATE DOYLEY,
DRAPE. DRAPE.
CHAPTER X.
BERLIN EMBROIDERY.
for overhangings for mantels, borders for table covers and cur-
tains, and for furniture coverings. But the modern use of Berlin
work has necessitated some modifications in the method of work-
ing. Several of the stitcH'^s formerly used exclusively in the
manufacture of Berlin work are admirably adapted for use on plain
and checked fabrics, namely cross stitch, tent stitch and a combination
of the two, also satin and long cross. Perhaps the most popular form of
this work is that wrought out with simple cross stitch on checked or square-
meshed fabrics, such as Bargarren art cloth, huck-a-buck, Devonshire art
cloth, checked lawns, scrim and gingham. On these fabrics beautiful geo-
metric, floral or mythological designs can be worked with linen or silk
threads, and most beautiful results obtained for a trifling outlay of time
and money.
The work maybe done with one color, or with a series of shades of any
given color, as three or four shades of yellow, from light to dark.
Bedroom and dining-room curtains made of scrim, and having a border
of cross stitch done with filo floss or linen floss, can be easily accomplishedr
as the coarser qualities of scrim are quite equal to the regular Berlin canvas
for the purpose. Beside curtains, toilet sets, tidies and towel ends may bs
worked to match.
Figure 143 shows a border of dragons that is suitable for use on cur-
tains, bedspreads, shams, stand and dresser covers, all embroidered to
140 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
ft
BERLIN EMBROIDERY.. 141
When Berlin work is used to decorate coverings for furniture, the pat-
tern should be formed of rope silk or filo floss, and the grounding stitches
done with Berlin wool. Patterns for this purpose should be conventional,
and the colors used dull, dead shades for the design and black or brown
FIG. 144.
wool for tlic grounding. Figures 144 and 145 show a chair upholstered .vith
this work, and the detail of pattern with the proper colorings. As will be
seen, very little grounding will be necessary. The design is worked in cross
stitch, and the grounding is done with Irish stitch. If it is desired to work
142 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
the design upon a fabric instead of canvas, Devonshire art cloth will be at
once suitable and artistic. After the work of embroidery is finished, it will
sure to justify the extra expense. For recovering odd pieces of dilapidated
furniture no work is at once so durable and inexpensive, providing the em-
broidery is done at home.
The genuine Berlin embroi-
dery is always worked on can-
vas, of which there are three
styles used, namely, Berlin
canvas, Penelope canvas and
Java canvas. The latter is a
grounds, the silks, smaller size linen threads and working cottons are used
to work the designs. Linen and cotton threads are only suitable for work-
ing patterns on meshed fabrics.
BERLIN EMBROIDERY. 143
The stitches used formerly for Berlin work were cross, cushion, satin,
tapestry and tent, but these have been added to in late years, and now
include German, Irish, plush, leviathan — single, double and treble — and
fancy stitches combined from the above.
Back Stitch.— This stitch is made like the ordinary back stitch
is used not only for working with wool on canvas, but for embroidering with
any material that will thread, upon cloth, silk, satin and velvet. It was
much used in the Egyptian embroideries. This stitch can be worked in a
end lines of damask stitch are taken over the two fig. 148.
lower threads of the upper line, and two new threads, instead of all the
threads being new.
German StitcFl. — This is a stitch formed from a tapestry and tent
stitch, being worked alternately in a diagonal line across the canvas. The
tapestry passes over four threads, the tent over two — see figure 149. In the
^MlHUtrniyH^^fe succeeding line the tent is placed under the tapestry and
JQE the tapestry under the tent, but so that the canvas shows.
This stitch is suitable for
borders where the founda-
tion can be left exposed,
but is rarely used for
figure 150, the stitch is raised from the canvas by means of a padding of
braid. This padding is a great improvement to this stitch, as otherwise it
lies quite flat, not being crossed. It is worked over two horizontal threads
and into every space left by the upright ones.
I rish Stitch is used for grounding or for patterns formed with shades
of color in Vandyke crossing. Irish stitch is a long stitch taken over five
or more threads of canvas in an upright direction, and should be worked on
fine canvas. Its only peculiarity consists in being alternately started from
BERLIN EMBROIDERY. M5
the last row of canvas and from the third. This allows the stitch to end in
one line where the center of the next line comes, and gives a pleasing
variety to ordinary groundings.
line of stitches does not come under the center of the first line. Com-
146 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
mence with a half stitch at each alternate row. This stitch should be
worked upon leviathan canvas, and it is not suitable for groundings, and
should only be used for geometrical designs.
Treble Leviathan Stitch. —^^To work this stitch a square of eight
threads of four stitches is required. The work starts from the center and
is taken to one of the corners, passing over four upright threads and four
horizontal ones in a slanting direction. The next two stitches are placed
one on each side of the first, crossing over four horizontal and two upright
threads, and vice versa, all finishing in center hole. The four corners are
thus worked, and the stitch is completed by taking a cross stitch over the
center hole and one in the center of each side of the square. When repeat-
ing this stitch the outside crosses are worked only in every alternate
square of eight, as there is not room to make one at every stitch. The
crosses should be worked with a contrasting shade.
Long" Stitch. — See satin stitch.
Tent Stitch. — To work this stitch requires finer canvas than that
used for cross stitch, the silk or wool being laid on the canvas once instead
of twice. Tent stitch is shown in fig-
a diagonal direction.
lowest row until the row above it is completed; this prevents any dragging
of the wool. Cut and comb out all the loops when the work is completed.
Berlin emSroiidery.
Satin Stitch in squares. — The squares are made over six threads
in length and breadth and filled by unequal length satin stitch. The
direction of the stitches are altered in
each alternate square.
As will be seen, satin stitch is sus-
This design is well adapted for filling satin"stitch'in squares, fig. 153.
backgrounds; for working, see detail of long cross. After the long cross
stitches have been made with the
Berlin wool or crewels — using
for the purpose two contrasting
shades of a dark color — work over
them in sections, forming squares,
cross stitches of bright colored
filo floss, three strands.
In the preceding pages of
this chapter we have tried to give
RAISED EMBROIDERY.
work.
Raised embroidery was not designed for its utility, evi-
worked on the material without any effort at raising it; a narrow ribbon
threaded in a long-eyed needle being used for this purpose. From this to
.single and double roses was but a step, after which followed raised cat-tails,
golden rod, coxcomb, sumac, snowball, fruits and varieties of the lily fam-
ily. We will discuss first the various forms of
RIBBON WORK.
The earlier ribbon designs were worked out with a narrow China ribbon
about one-half inch in width. This ribbon was dyed with beautiful shades
in art tones, as old blue, dead rose, sage green, etc. Some of the ribbons
were shaded from light on one edge to dark on the other, and thus formed
effective shadings.
The designs for working the ribbon were of the smaller flowers or of
the larger ones drawn in miniature and arranged as Kensington designs are
now made. Also Louis XVI designs — arrangement of flowers in various
devices — were designed on satin bed coverings and door hangings in de-
on the darker edge, which was sewed on the design, beginning in the center
and sewing around toward the outer edge, until the design was filled in.
For very small single flowers the ribbon was threaded in the needle, as for
the leaves, and a single stitch taken from top to bottom of petal. The cen-
ters of flowers were put in with filo floss in French knot. Page 150 shows
a design for this style of embroidery full working size. It is suitable for
toilet cushion covers, or it may be repeated for borders, or clusters may be
detached and used as powderings.
This form of ribbon work is indulged in by the wealthy only, as the
ribbon is a foreign manufacture, and not imported into this country, except
152 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
by the decorative art societies, which make a specialty of keeping ribbons
and designs for this work. A cushion with Louis XVI design worked in
the manner here described is in the possession of the Chicago Society of
Decorative Art and valued at $50. On the other hand, if one has friends
in Paris, the ribbon can be there purchased for a few cents per yard, and
good designs can be traced from prints of decorations of the Louis XVI
period. The ribbon work above described is the highest form of raised
work indulged in even at the present day. As the designs for it are of a
light and graceful character and the tints of the ribbon exceedingly deli-
cate, it follows that the background on which it is to be applied should also
be of a light or medium tone of color, and satin or silk offers by far the
best surface.
SINGLE RIBBON ROSES.
Branching sprays of large single roses and buds are suitable for ribbon
work, and may be applied to screens or mantel hangings with good effect.
The amount of material necessary for working out a design will, of course,
depend upon the number of roses, buds and leaves in the arrangement.
For the purposes of this lesson we will suppose a branch of roses consisting
of three full-blown and three half-blown roses, four buds and thirty-three
leaves. This design will require three and one-half yards No. 16 satin ribbon,
divided as follows: One yard deep rose pink; one-half yard rose pink one
shade lighter than that first selected; and one-half yard two shades lighter
still. One yard deep rose red ribbon; one-half yard a shade lighter; and one-
half yard two shades lighter than the shade first selected. The shades of
color must be in exact lines of gradation, from light to dark. This com-
bination of blush rosesand deep red roses on a dark blue velvet background
is exceedingly pleasing. Beside the ribbon and the material for the back-
ground there will be required a long-eyed and a common needle; three
skeins olive green filo floss; three dozen skeins No, 2 imported chenille,
and a square frame.
As regards materials for ribbon roses, opinion differs, some teachers
preferring satin in the piece, while others use nothing but the satin ribbon.
We have always employed the latter for three very important reasons:
First, closer shading can be obtained; second, the ribbon has more body
and can be manipulated with greater ease; and, lastly, there are no raw
RAISED EMBROIDERY. 153
edges to be cared for. No two persons ever secure the same results with
the same materials, no matter how closely a rule may be followed; more
or less of a worker's individuality is certain to creep into the work, and rib-
bon seems to offer the best medium for the expression of this individuality.
Stamp the design upon the material, and after the paint has thoroughly
dried, stretch it firmly in the frame. Do not pin the fabric to the frame
but sew it with strong thread.
In all raised work the leaves or foliage should be worked first, and the
flowers added last, otherwise the raised portion would be in the way and
would become crushed and soiled. At least twelve shades of chenille will
be required for effective shading, as follows: Five shades of olive green,
from light to dark; five shades of wood brown, shading from ecru to a deep,
rich brown, and two shades of red brown.
On ribbon work the foliage should be striking and effective, rich and
varied. One can hardly go astray on shading rose leaves vividly, as nature
has set us an example of the utmost latitude. Each leaf should contain at
least three different shades. These need not necessarily be three shades
of one color in direct line of ascent or descent, as, for instance the first,
second and third shades of the olive greens or the wood browns; in fact, this
form of shading would give unbroken and monotonous effects if carried out
through all the design — a result to be avoided, although an occasional leaf
worked after this rule helps to lend variety to the whole. All that is arbi-
trary in this form of shading is that the outside of each leaf shall be worked
with the lightest shade used, or if shaded from the tip down, the base must
be darkest, the tip lightest; or, again, if opposite sides of a leaf are to be
differently shaded, the side which the light strikes first must be worked
with the lightest shades, while the under side should be dark.
In using chenille, follow the outline of the leaf closely, and do not
make the stitch of regular lengths; preserve such a slant as will not crowd
the stitches, and do not leave too many open spaces to be filled in with the
succeeding shades. •
After the foliage has been worked, protect it from the dust by sewing
over it fine tissue paper, leaving exposed only that portion of material
where the roses and buds are to be placed.
154 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
To make the roses: Cut two pieces of the lightest shade of rose pink
ribbon two inches in length; two pieces of the shade next deeper, and one
piece of the deepest shade, all two inches long. These are to form the five
petals of the rose. Thread a common sewing needle with strong thread,
and sew one end of each piece of ribbon in three small plaits and fasten
firmly. With the same kind of thread gather the other end of the pieces of
ribbon, draw together tightly and fasten.
Begin with the lightest petals first. Fasten the gathered end of a petal
to the outer edge of the highest petal of a rose in the design. Sew it firmly
to the material on the wrong side of the ribbon, then turn the petal over
(like the flounce of a dress when sewed on the wrong side and allowed to
fall over, showing no fastening stitches), and bring the plaited end to the
center of rose and fasten on the right side. The mechanical part of the
petal is now finished, and it rests with the worker how much individuality
is put into the flower when completed. Lay one or two tiny plaits on each
side of the outer edge of petal and fasten; this will give a rounded fullness
to the ribbon, which fullness can be crushed into close resemblance to a
crumpled rose leaf by a few judicious and gentle touches; allow the ribbon
to dispose itself gracefully, and catch it here and there with a stitch to hold
in place; turn the edges under slightly, and carry the thread on wrong side
to the center of rose, where a few little gathered stitches on each side of
the petal, close to center, will be an improvement. For the second petal
proceed as for the first, catching the two petals together at the top with a
blind stitch, being careful to avoid a strained or forced appearance. The
two upper petals should be of the lightest shades, the three under petals of
the two deepest shades. When the petals are finished fill in the center with
French knots, using three strands of green filo floss. Thread the sewing needle
with a single strand of pale yellow filo floss; begin at center of petal and
carry three long light stitches upon it, the longest stitch in the center and
a shorter one on each side. Repeat these stitches upon each petal. This
completes the rose.
The buds are formed in the same manner as the rose petals. For very
large buds, a piece of ribbon one and a half or two inches long will be re-
Plait one end and gather the other, as described for the rose petals. Fasten
11
156 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
the gathered end to the top of bud, fold over and fasten the plaited end to>
the center of the bud. This method leaves a graceful fullness, which can be;
manipulated easily by picking and punching into position with the needle,,
and caught here and there with an invisible stitch to hold in place. Carry
the needle to the right of bud at the base, and take three small running
stitches in the edge of the ribbon, always with the needle point towards the
top of the bud. After the running stitches are in, draw the needle back to
base of bud and fasten. Repeat the same operations on the left side; this
will bring the ribbon into minute folds. With the lightest shade of olive
green chenille work the calyx of bud, carrying a few long stitches well
upon the bud do not pull them, but allow each stitch to lie lightly in
itself;
place. Follow the markings of pattern on each side and at the top of bud
with single stitches of chenille.
The half-blown roses are manipulated in the same manner, except that
three pieces of the deepest shades of ribbon, two inches long, will be re-
quired. Place these in position so as to cover the design. Little pulling
or pricking into position with the needle will be necessary, and where the
rose joins the stem it should be heavily worked with the second shade of
olive green chenille. Follow markings of pattern, and do not be afraid to
carry a few graceful, light stitches well upon the rose itself, starting from
the base.
lows: Five pieces, two and one-half inches long, of the deepest shade used;
five pieces of ribbon of the same shade as first given, three inches long; five
pieces of the next lightest shade, four inches long, and five pieces, the same
length, of the lightest shade.
Gather one end of each piece of ribbon and plait the other end, as de-
scribed for single roses. Begin at the outer edge of the stamped rose and
sew down on each stamped petal a ribbon petal, using for this purpose the
five four-inch pieces of the lightest shade of ribbon. Do not fold the ends
of the ribbon petals together to fasten, but sew down the plaited end first,:
—
as described for single roses, then turn the petal over and fasten down the
gathered end, a hair's breadth beyond where the first end was sewed down.
After the five outer petals have been fastened into position, take a few run-
ning stitches on each side of each petal, at the base, and draw down toward
the bottom of the petal and toward the center and fasten. Put in the next
row of petals in the same manner, sewing down the plaited end so as to
cover the gathered end of the preceding petal; use for this row the four-
inch pieces that have been cut from the next deeper shade of ribbon. In-
side this row fasten down, in the same manner, a row of petals of the deep-
est shade. Use the three-inch pieces for this row. Inside this, again, put
in the petals that were cut two and one-half inches long, and which were
also cut from the deepest shade of ribbon. This completes the rose to the
center. Fill the center as follows: Cut a square piece of the ribbon, fold it
diagonally across the center, making a half square; gather the two sides of
the square into a point and fasten, giving the ribbon a little roll inward
as the fastening is completed. Place this exactly in the center of the rose,
and secure it firmly.
The different petals can be pinched into shape and fastened here and
there with invisible stitches. The beauty of this work depends entirely
upon the manipulation of the petals after they have been fastened into posi-
tion. The more crumpled they are the better will be the effect.
CALLA LILY.
For banners or easel pieces there is no flower more effective than the
calla lily, and better than almost any other flower does it lend itself to
raised effects. The background should be of plush or velvet, and the color
should be rich and warm. A deep blue, crimson or green will throw the
raised callas into relief.
In putting the design upon the stamp on only the leaves and
material,
stems; do not stamp the floivers. The material required for making one calla
will be as follows: One square foot of screen wire — the finest mesh made
this can be procured at any hardware store; four dozen skeins cream white
arrasene; one calla center, one skein light olive green chenille, one arrasene
needle, one piece wash blond. The wire will be sufficient for two callas
and one bud, but less cannot be purchased.
AND PROFIT,
,58 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE
PAGE 15T
PANSY AND TIGER MLY-SEE
WORKING PATTERN FOR CALLA,
RAISED EMBROIDERY. 159
Cut a piece of the wire into shape by the calla pattern on page 158, cut
with a pair of sharp shears, so as to get a good, clear edge. Cover this wire
calla on both sides with the wash blond and secure with a few stitches.
to top of flower again and work down the opposite side, taking the stitch
in to a depth of at least one or two inches. This
operation will give a smooth, even edge to the
flower, alike on both sides, and is worked as
In working, twist the arrasene in the needle. When the wire has been
smoothly and solidly covered with the arrasene stitches on both sides, take
the calla between the thumb and finger of one hand, near the top of the
flower, and with the other fold it into shape, after the fashion of twisting a
cornucopia; the wire is stiff and will retain the shape without trouble. Place
the calla in position on the background and secure with a single stitch at the
top and one at the base of the flower. This will be sufficient to hold it in
place. Slip the calla center into position and catch with a stitch. With the
green chenille, work the calyx of calla, carrying the stitches well up on
the outside of the flower, working quite heavy at the base. This throws
t6o DAINTY WORK fO% PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
the flower into relief and gives it a rich effect. The stems of the calla
should be worked with solid Kensington stitch.
When the callas are soiled they can be removed and cleaned by shak-
ing in a pan of flour that has been previously well dried.
TIGER AND JAPAN LILIES.
The above varieties of lilies lend themselves to raised effects adn)ir-
ably, and are easily made. First, stamp the design on the material to be
embroidered — that is the leaves and foliage —be careful, however, not to
stamp the flower itself, as its position will be
sufificiently indicated by the stems, and if the
flower were stamped it would be difificult to
cover the marks.
Figure 156 shows a correct shape by whish
to cut the wire petals for a tiger lily. It should
be drawn from the figure and cut out of stiff card-
board so as to secure a pattern by which to cut
the wire. For a Japan lily this pattern should be
cut three times as large.
Materials required for a single Japan or tiger
lily are as follows: Screen wire, finest mesh, blond
net, arrasene and chenille. Both varieties of
FIG. 156. lilies are worked in the same manner, so that the
instructions for one will answer for the other.
Three shades of orange yellow arrasene will be required for working
the petals of the tiger lily, and one shade of pinkish white arrasene for the
petals of the Japan lily. The brown spots marking the petals of both
varieties should be imitated with reddish brown chenille, No. i the finest —
made — with seed stitch.
The centers of the flowers can be purchased at any art store, though
they may be very successfully made at home by grouping together pieces
of fine hair wire for the stamens. Cut the wires about three inches long
RAISED EMBROiCERY. i6t
and bind therii firmly together at the bottom; spread the wires apart at the
top and fasten on the point of each a tiny bit of cotton wool; dip the whole
in melted rosin, and then, while still wet, dip the very points covered with
the wool in dry mustard, or sprinkle with gold powder.
For a tiger lily cut six petals out of the wire, by the pattern previously
prepared, and cover them with the blond net. Work as follows: Begin at
the tip of a wire petal with the lightest shade of the orange yellow, and
work if downward in Kensington stitch to the base, using the three shades
of orange yellow — the darkest at the base of petal. Work both sides of
the wire petals alike. When finished, group them around the prepared
center and secure with a few invisible stitches. After the stems and foliage
have been worked with arrasene or chenille, punch a small hole at the
point where the flower is to be placed and insert the stem of the lily, fasten-
ing it on the back of the material, and also catch a stitch or two lightly
through the petals that Vte next the material; curl the points of the petals
outward, and work a few stitches on the lower part of flower with olive
green chenille, to form the calyx. The Japan lily is made and placed in
will give the necessary amount of material for that pattern. The back-
ground should be satin or velvet, either cream, blue or deep moss green.
WATER LILY.
Cut the shape of lily petal in fine screen wire, using the pattern of
water lily on page 158 to get the shape of petal from. Cover the wire petal
with white blond or rice net, smoothly, and beginning at the top of petal
work downward in Kensington stitch with white arrasene; when one side
of petal is worked, turn and work the reverse side in the same manner.
For large lilies twenty-four petals will be necessary, using twelve for
extreme outside row and eight for inside row, and the remaining four to
i62 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
surround the center, which can be purchased at any art store. The outside
petals should have a few stitches of green arrasene near the base of
each. The last or inner row of four petals should be much smaller than
the outside row. In stamping the design do not stamp the lilies on the
goods — just the leaves and stems — as in arranging the petals you would not
be able to cover the marks made by stamping. Raised water lilies look
best mounted either on white velvet or dark green satin. The leaves and
stems should be worked with lily green arrasene or chenille. This flower,
thus treated, is suitable for placques, banners, or for corners of plush-
good soil and in barren and waste places. It is loved by the rich and poor
alike, and is a golden glory always.
For purposes of embroidery, where bright rich color is desired, there is no
other flower that can quite fill its place. It allows of graceful arrangements
of form, and is susceptible of the most subtle gradations of light and shade.
It is especially beautiful when combined with other autumn flowers — as
sumac, thistles or asters — the rich purples and bright gold forming a piece
of gorgeous coloring that will most effectually brighten up any dull corner*!
must be used. First fill the surface of the pattern with large French knots
of olive green rope silk; then, between each knot sew down thick strands
of the silk, cut in lengths and crossed like the letter X; catch in the center
of the X with a fastening stitch, pulling it down firmly, this will cause the
ends of the strands of silk to spring up and cover the fastening stitches.
Cover the surface of design thickly with the crossed strands of silk, which
will be supported by the underfilling of French knots, which will also
medium-sized branch of golden rod about four shades of filo floss will be
required, viz: Nos. 1261, 1262, 1263 and 1264. When it is wished to work this
flower on wash fabrics the work should be done with two or three shades
of yellow etching silk in French knots; make the knots smooth and even,
winding the thread around th£ needle twice only; place the knots close
together, but do not crowd them. Made as above described, the knots will
not be much raised from the surface, and work thus treated will laundry
perfectly. The foliage and stems of the golden rod should be worked with
silver or lily green silk in Kensington stitch.
CATTAIL.
This rather stiff and stately inhabitant of river courses and marshes is
with brown rope or etching silk in heavy French knots. When desired for
banner or similar purpose, the cattail should be worked in plush stitch
done with filo floss over a ground of French knots, made of brown zephyr.
In fact, whenever plush stitch is used, the design should first be covered
with French knots in order to give body and firmness when the work is fin-
ished, and as this stitch depends for its beauty upon the firmness and com-
pactness with which it is worked, this grounding is essential. The work,
when the stitch is completed, must be evenly and carefully shaved and
combed out.
12
1 64 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
The foliage and spike or cattail may also be effectively worked with
No. 2 chenille in browns for the cattail, and olive green, three shades, for
foliage. Cover the design with French knots or with solid Kensington
stitch.
COXCOIVIB.
This gorgeously-colored flower is peculiarly adapted for raised effects,
shade of red filo floss. This will simulate the markings of red in the natural
flower. Above this base begin the flower by covering the design with
heavy French knots done with red zephyr. Between the knots sew down
heavy strands of filo floss X; cut each
or rope silk, crossed like the letter
strand about one and one-quarter inches long. For one section of the X
use the deepest shade of silk; for the other section the shade next lighter,
and for the dark line shown in figure 157 use the scarlet silk, as before
RAISED EMBROIDERY. 165
SUMAC.
The foliage and bobs of the sumac are beautiful worked in autumn
shades. The leaves and foliage should of course be worked with filo floss
or Royal floss in solid Kensington stitches, using for the purpose dead
yellows, deep crimsons, golden browns, orange, wood browns, and the
bronze greens and browns; no two leaves need be shaded alike, and the
effect of the entire'foliage when worked should be a mass of royal coloring.
The bobs are usually worked with raised effect in No. 2 chenille, using for
the purpose the three deepest shades of yellow reds. To work the bobs:
Begin at the top of the bob with the lightest shade, bring the needle to the
surface of the material at the top and put it back to the wrong side again,
close to where it came up, and pull it through until all the chenille has been
drawn down, except a loop about one-half of an inch high; continue the
operation to the base, working in the deeper shades, until the darkest has
been used. Place the loops close together over the surface of the design,
so that the bob presents a mass of color from light to dark. No shaving
or clipping will here be necessary. Another method of working this
flower is to cover its surface with French knots of chenille, or rope silk,
though the loops are by far the most effective. A beautiful combination
would be a spray of goldenrod and sumac bobs, with foliage. This com-
bination would make a beautiful banner or easel piece — or coxcomb, sumac,
golden rod and thistles gracefully arranged and worked with raised effect,
THISTLES.
Thistles are easily adapted for raised effects, and in combination with
golden rod, or even used alone, they are always pleasing to the eye. The
materials for making raised thistles are: one skein green zephyr, two skeins
deep olive green etching silk, one skein silver green etching silk and three
skeins of heliotrope filo floss. Do not make the mistake of using lavender
shades — the proper shade being a reddish purple, which is admirably
DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
imitated in that line of silks known as heliotrope. To work: Begin with
the base of the thistle, cut the skein of green zephyr, and wint^ four or five
strands over the thumb and first finger. Place the tip of the thumb on the
bottom part of the base of thistle and the
forefinger on the top of base, and slip the
small diamond-shaped
spaces, with the skein
of silver green silk.
the top of base with French knots, made out of green zephyr; fill in be-
tween these with heliotrope silks in plush stitch, in the same manner as
described for coxcomb, using the very lightest shade at the top of flower.
RAISED EMBROIDERY. 167
Carry out from the edge of the plush stitches a few simple straight stitches
with one strand of silk. Shear off the uneven ends of silk and whip or
comb out the flowers. This method gives the most natural effect of any
employed, for making raised thistles.
RAISED SNOWBALLS.
Snowballs for ornamenting banners, corners of mirror frames, etc., are
very effective and simple of construction. The background should be
either plush or velvet of a rich dark color — as blue, red or green. For
working the foliage five
a circle, using the top of a small-sized tumbler or water glass for a pattern;
stretch the cloth firmly in a pair of small embroidery hoops and with the
green zephyr work across the circle until the surface has been completely
covered; over this prepared surface the white arrasene is to be put, and the
method of doing this part of the work is identical with that described for
making sumac, viz.: Commence at one side of circle; bring the needle,
threaded with white arrasene, from the back of work to the surface and put
down close to where it came up and pull through to the back, leaving a
loop from one-half to three-quarters of an inch high on the right side;
i68 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
repeat this until the surface is thickly and solidly covered with these white
loops; be careful not to arrange the loops so that they shall appear set in
any particular direction, but so that they shall present a light, feathery sur-
face. After this part of the work has been done, take the cloth from the
frame and cut out the worked circle, leaving a margin of about one-six-
teenth of an inch; turn this margin under and run in a gathering thread.
Do not pull the gathering thread tight, but just enough to curl the edges
inward; place the circle over the spot where the snowball is desired, and
blind stitch it down, leaving a space of three inches at the point where it
joins the stems. Into this space stuff the cotton wool, with the blunt end
of the stilletto, until the snowball looks sufficiently raised, then sew down
the space left and over it work in loops of the green arrasene. This will
RAISED PANSIES.
For small banners, ornamental covers for toilet cushions and for the cor-
ornaments. The leaves and stems should first be worked on the foundation
with the finest chenille. No. i, in olive green, using Kensington stitch.
To work the pansy, select a perforated pansy pattern, and stamp a
flower on stiff paper. From this cut out each petal separately and dupli-
cate each one from fine screen wire by the pattern thus obtained. Work
them v/ith four or five shades of lavender chenille No. i, in Kensington
stitch, putting in a few stitches of yellow chenille at the base of each petal.
After all the petals are worked, arrange them on the foundation with invis-
ible stitches, and curl the petals gracefully with the fingers; in the very
center put in a French knot of the lightest shade of lavender. A cluster of
A toilet set of white satin, the mats of which are embroidered with
pansies in filo floss, with Kensington stitch, and the cushion and bottles
having a cluster of raised pansies, the whole finished with fine white lace,
would make a wedding present that would delight the heart of any bride.
RAISED FRUIT.
Raised fruit maybe used for panels for dining room or for over-mantel
hangings, though, as a rule, it is not as effective as flowers.
Cherries.
A branch of cherries raised on a black velvet ground will make a very
pretty placque ornament. To work: Stamp the design upon the velvet,
cherries as well as foliage. Work the latter with silk, in Kensington stitch.
Over each stamped cherry fasten a tiny ball of cotton wool rolled into the
shape of a cherry, but a little smaller than the fruit should be when finished.
Over this cotton work from the stem to the end of cherry with a strand of
fine red chenille. Work these stitches until the cotton is completely cov-
ered, being careful to preserve the outlines perfectly. Some of the cherries-
may be made of a deeper red than others, thus giving a pleasing variety to
the coloring.
Raised Oranges.
A panel of raised oranges, worked on a deep green velvet panel, will
make a very beautiful over-mantel hanging for dining room. To work the
oranges, two or three shades of golden yellow chenille No. 2, shades corre-
sponding with 1263, 1264 and 1265 of the Belding silks will be correct for
this work.
Stamp the entire design upon the material, and work the stems anc
foliage with olive green arrasene, using about three shades of arrasene for
this part of the work. Over the stamped oranges place a ball of cotton
wool and fasten with securing stitches. The ball of cotton is made by roll
ing tl;e cotton in the hand until it assumes the desired shape. Over this
cotton ball work the yellow chenille, from the point where it joins the stem
170 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
downward, until it reaches the blossom end. Work a little knot of bronze
^reen in the blossom end with filo floss. The stitch should be taken in a
straight line, and the threads should lie evenly and not crowd each other.
When it is desired to work oranges on table linen or other articles that
must be laundered: (i) commence in the center and work around and out-
ward in chain stitch, with yellow green etching silk; (2) work over the
surface in three shades of filo floss, with Kensington stitch; (3) work over
the surface with French knots, done with etching silk. For this style of
work the foliage should be treated with outline or short and long stitch,
Strawberries.
Work the blossoms with cream white filo floss, in Kensington stitch;
fill the center with a yellow French knot. The leaves and stems may be
worked with filo floss, in Kensington stitch, using olive green, three shades.
For the half-ripe berries use silk of a brighter shade of red than that used
in the ripe fruit. Cover the stamped strawberry with a piece of cotton
pressed into the shape of the berry, and secure with stitches. Cover this
with filo floss of a true strawberry red, working over it, from stem to end,
until the cotton is covered, after which put in seed stitches over the berry
in irregular order, with yellow-green filo floss. Be careful not to raise the
berry unnaturally, but follow the outlines of the stamped design. This
fruit may also be worked with fine chenille, or it may be worked in solid
Kensington, flat upon the surface of material, using either Royal floss or
filo floss for the purpose.
Grapes.
Bunches of grapes, with foliage, make a beautiful design for panel.
Stamp the entire design upon the fabric to be embroidered. Work the
leaves and stems with bronze green and bronze brown arrasene. For the
grapes, roll little balls of cotton, and catch down on each grape shown in
the bunch, after which work over the cotton with chenille No. i. in the
RAISED EMBROIDERY. 171
shade nearest like the variety of grape being copied. Deep purple grapes
are the favorite for raised effects. Great care should be exercised to keep
the form and outline of each grape perfect.
COTTON PLANT.
A cotton plant, with the ripe cotton bursting from the pod, is par-
ticularly beautiful, arranged as a panel, or as an ornament for a wall pocket,
shade — work solidly, putting in plenty of stitches, and do not take them of
too great length; carry one shade into another. When this has been done,
remove the hoops and cut around the pattern, leaving a quarter-inch mar-
gin to turn down and hem with a running stitch, drawing the edges in
slightly in the operation, so as to form a sort of bowl-shape receptacle for
the cotton; now select a good sized piece of cotton wool that is free from
dust or other specks, pull it apart until every fiber stands out distinct and
172 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
light as a feather, place it in the pod or bowl just made, and catch it to
the pointmarked o, in figure 162, with an invisible stitch. Half close the
bowlshaped pod over the wool, pulling a portion of the wool beyond
the points of the pod, and spreading it out as seen in
/f/l^jK
fio-ure 162. /ill KllllnlvK The entire effect de-
plush or velvet, and framed with glass over it, makes a most effective and
taking piece of needlework, for fairs and bazaars.
fact, anv flower whose petals have simple oiitlines and unbroken .surfaceSi
RAISED EMBROIDERY. 173
As before stated this form of work must be sparingly indulged in, and
the proper place for its display should be well considered.
All raised embroidery should be worked in a square frame, both hands
should be used — one under and one over the frame. When the work is com-
pleted it should receive a coat of thick mucilage on the back; this should
be applied before removing from the frame and while the work is tightly
stretched. This will secure ends of silk, etc., and give a smooth appear-
ance to the article when finished. A most important point, and one that
should never be forgotten, is to embroider all foliage and stems before the
raised portion of design is commenced.
174 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
CARAFFE MAT.
CHAPTER XII.
DAINTY TRIFLES.
Having laid the foundation for a broad and systematic knowledge of deco-
rative needlework in the precedjng pages, we cannot do better service than
to devote the present chapter to describing and illustrating a number oi
possible for fingers to accomplish, and the best material of its kind should
be employed. Thus, if the material be linen or lawn, a good quality should
be purchased for the work; better far to make a smaller article, simpler in
every way, than to cheapen the material. These gifts generally depend for
their value upon the esteem in which the donor is held, therefore the
best possible work should be done. Again, appropriateness to the occa-
sion, to the age, condition and occupation of the recipient, should be
considered.
We have not confined the articles illustrated in this chapter to those
requiring embroidery for their decoration, but have included those that are
to be painted as well, also some that require no decoration whatever, the
aim being to give a number of inexpensive articles that can be made up
with little expense; and also to utilize the contents of the scrap basket
as far as possible. Very few novelties, so called, have been included
176 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
in the list; rather descriptions of articles that are always "in style," because
always useful. The day has long gone by when a room was filled with a
lot of useless, meaningless, dust-catching articles, called "fancy work."
made from two palm leaf fans as follows: Cover one side of each fan with
plain gray crash and gild the reverse side with liquid gold. On the gray
crash any pretty design may be embroidered. Join the two fans together
at the handle by means of a ribbon bow, and add a few stitches on the side.
a light, plain board, 23 J^ x 151/^ inches, covered with dark blue cloth — either
denim or felt will answer. In the center is the blotting pad, held down at
178 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
each corner with triangular pieces of leather or cloth. The various pockets,
intended to hold paper, envelopes, stamps, cards, etc., are fastened with
FIG. 165.
FOOT STOOL.
These little foot stools can be
purchased in the rough for 50 cents
PAPER STAND.
This convenient paper stand is made of three bamboo rods, three box
lids — either cheese or sugar-box covers are preferred — seven yards of two-
inch ribbon and one bolt of very narrow ribbon. The bamboo rods are
furnishings of the room. If bamboo rods are not obtainable, the handles
of worn-out brooms will do nicely, sawed off to the desired length; they
should be either ebonized or gilded. If the stand is to serve as a paper
would be linen crash, embroidered with linen floss. The design should
be tiny flowers, scattered rather than arranged in any set design.
DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
SHOE BOX.
We here give a design for a shoe box, which is ornamental as well as
useful. An ordinary soap box will do for the foundation. It must have a
cover fitted to it. Line the box inside with pale pink sateen, such as is
and the broken lines are made of the same material. A cording outlines
FIG. 169.
the box and conceals the sewing. Any other combination of colors or
ornamental design may be substituted, keeping in mind always that the
article is to be inexpensive.
SUNFLOWER CUSHION.
This little cushion for the dresser is very simple and can be easily
made. The material is India silk, fine lace, silk bolting, one skein filo
iloss and one skein gold thread, and a small, round, soft cushion, not over
DAINTV TRIFLES, tSi
^our inches in diameter. First, stamp on the bolting the sunflower design,
which, by the way, is not a sunflower at all, but is a conventional form, hav-
ing pointed leaves like that flower. Around the edge of this design sew
on the lace; this will give a
cover, lace edge included, and tacking lightly to the outside cover; pink
the edge of silk all around. The cover, lining and all, is now fastened to
the top of the cushion by tacking each point of leaf to the cushion proper;
this gives the fluffy, full appearance of the flounced edge. Usually a dresser
scarf is made to match these little cushions. Our design shows both scarf
and cushion, the same design being used for both. The model was embroi-
dered with gold filo floss, on white silk bolting, and lined with gold India silk.
WORK BASKET.
Figure 171 illustrates a collapsible work basket. This little basket,
fitted with every convenience, will be especially appreciated by a lady who
is visiting or traveling much. Four pieces, 9x9 inches at the top and 55^x
These pieces should be cut from pliable cardboard, not too stiff, and
covered on the outside with gray crash or linen, or pongee silk in natural
I82 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
shade; these pieces can be embellished with a graceful design, worked out
with Real Scotch linen flourishing thread No. 8, in pink or red, with wood
browns; the inside should
be lined with pink silk,
one over the other. This forms a neat, flat package that can be packed
anywhere without injury. There should be two long, rather deep, pockets
on opposite sides of the basket, on the inside, for spools, buttons, etc.; also
on one end a neat needlebook, on the other a tiny square cushion, all of
pink silk, and fastened securely. An acceptable gift for any occasion.
basket, as shown in cut, and form a pretty finish; the top opening is then
DAINTY TRIFLES. 183
filled in with pink zephyr in tuft stitch; this is to receive the hair pins. The
cost should not exceed fifteen cents.
should be of %vash material. The model was a cushion three inches square,
covered with pale blue China silk; the center piece was a square of fine
linen lawn, embroidered with fancy filling
stitches. As will be seen, the silk is cut
covered top and bottom with a plain white linen cover, embroidered with
wreath of wood violets in natural shades. The covers are placed in posi-
1 84 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
tion and laced together with a white silk cord over a puffing of lavender
silk. The materials required for these dainty trifles are mere scraps from
one's piece bag, and they will make most acceptable gifts for any occasion,
at little expense.
CHAIR BACK AND SEAT.
Figures 175 and 176 show design for back and seat of chair. The
material is a deep silver green Russian tapestry, and the design a spray of
poppies. Treatment:
Work the stems with No.
1334, the leaves with Nos.
1330, 1331 and 1332 silver
LAMP SHADE.
The lamp shade shown in figure 177 is made of tissue paper in three
shades of old rose. The paper is first creased by folding back and forth in
small plaits and then drawing several times
through the hands, or it can be purchased
ready for use, but is more expensive that way.
Place the three shades of paper, one over the
other, the lightest shade first, the medium
shade next, and for the outside the darkest
shade. Gather the paper at the top to fit the
neck of a wire foundation, which in turn is
can be purchased for twenty cents, and any color paper to suit furnishings
WALL POCKET.
A convenient wall pocket for newspapers is shown in figure 178. Heavy
pasteboard i s used for the
foundation; the dimensions of
the piece are 15 by 25 inches.
The pasteboard should be cov-
ered on both sides with gray
canvas or ecru linen; on that
portion of the material that
forms the pocket stamp a frieze
o
FiG. 178.
is made more complete
^ by
^ sew-
ing on the edges a row of Tyrol cord. The lower part is then turned
1 86 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
over and sewed on the back as here indicated. Brass rings are sewed
on the corners to hang it up by. Bows of ribbon, the darkest shade of red
HANDKERCHIEF HOLDER.
Figures 181 and 182 show this little case in process of construction
and completed, so that by studying them carefully the holder can very
easily be duplicated.
Before commencing operations on the material to be used, it will be
well to take a piece of white or light paper, twelve inches square, and pen-
cil line it like figure 181. First, fold the sides marked i, straightening out
DAINTY TRIFLES. 187
each before folding the next. Then turn the paper over and fold across
cornerwise, like lines marked 2. Now turn the paper back again, first side
needed.
One-third of a yard of
satin, twenty-four inches
wide, and a like amount for
per yard, will bring the cost to about ninety cents for the two.
13
DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
PHOTOGRAPH OR CALENDAR CASE.
These cases are convenient for holding photographs and calendars, and
are, beside, an ornament for mantel, table or bracket that will be appreci-
ated by ladies who are interested in home decoration; also, they are
always rapid sellers at fairs and bazaars, and make acceptable wedding,
birthday or Christmas gifts. The two-panel de-
sign shown in figure 183 is made of egg-shell
board or linen canvas for the outside, and stiff
Out of the egg-shell board or linen canvas cut two panels, each having an
opening for the photograph, and out of the cardboard cut two pieces the
same size, for a back to the panel. If linen canvas instead of egg-shell
board is used for the front panel, then it must be first pasted smoothly over
cardboard. Cover the two pieces that are to serve as backs for the panels
with gray linen, on the outside turning the edges in on the inside of panel
and gluing them down. When the front and back pieces are ready, place
them one over the other and oversew the edges together with art cord.
Join the two panels by oversewing down the back with art cord.
If the panels are covered with the linen canvas,
they may first be beautifully decorated with needle-
work. The design should be worked before the cov-
ering is put on. Floral designs are best suited for this
purpose, and may be worked solid or in outline, with
silk or linen floss, in na'tural colors or in conventional
shading. Brown silk floss on cream white duck is
used, it may be decorated with a design painted in oil or water colors, for
which directions may be found in the chapter on "Brush and Palette."
Figure 184 shows a calendar case, made in same manner as described
above, only in this case but one panel is used and it is covered with cellu-
DAINTY TRIFLES. i8q
loid, instead of the opening being cut entirely away it is rolled up.
This material may also be decorated with either oil or water colors. A
printed calendar should fill the opening, being pasted in the opening on the
back panel.
NIGHT DRESS SACHET.
This pretty sachet is made of white silk bolting lined with pale pink
satin. The lining is quilted and cov-
ered on the reverse side with blue satin.
The sachet is edged with a double frill
ed instead of embroidered.
PANSY SACHET.
This pansy sachet is a charming little
filo floss, in short and long buttonhole stitch, around the edges, and cut the
material close to buttonhole edge. This piece, can be easily removed for
cleaning, and the entire arrangement is light and dainty.
PANSY SACHET.
A pretty trifle for toilet table is a pansy sachet, made as follows: Take
a piece of cotton batting and roll it into a ball about the size of an egg, and
sprinkle with sachet powder; cut from pale yellow tissue paper a square
large enough to cover the
ball and leave enough at top
to form pansy petals Ij4 in-
and round the edges; cut one more petal from an extra piece of paper and
mucilage it under and between two of the petals left on the bag. This
forms a perfect pansy top to the ball, and the illusion is completed by paint-
ing each petal slightly with oil colors in pansy shades. This inexpensive
trifle can be easily duplicated from the illustration.
MENDING BAG.
This simple and inexpensive mending bag
would be a gift that would delight the heart of
the busy housewife at any time. To make: Cut
three pieces of cardboard, as follows: Two
pieces for front and back, each iixg inches at
the top and narrowed to '/}4 inches at the bot-
tom; one piece 3^4x75^ for the bottom. Line
FIG. 190. these three pieces on both sides with plain
sateen, pink, blue or brown, and join them together by overhand seams on
192 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
the inside of bag. To make the accordion plaited ends, hem across the top
a piece of cretonne 13x21 inches, and gather it at the bottom to fit the
narrow end of the bottom piece of bag, to which it must be fastened. Sew
the sides of the cretonne, which have been reduced to eleven inches by the
hem across the top and the gathering at the bottom, to the sides of the
front and back. This finishes one end of bag; the other must be treated in
A narrow stitched band of the plain sateen is run through the rings,
and the ends are neatly joined. This forms the means of suspension, and
also allows the bag to be opened easily and widely when in use. The lettering
is worked with silk or floss in colors to match the figures in the side pieces.
HOLDERS.
These little articles do not find their field
had been discarded. The edges are bound with a narrow red silk ribbon
and ornamented with satin stitch in red etching silk. The letters forming
the words are made in outline stitch with the etching silk. A loop of rib-
materials. Those used about the table should be made of two pieces of
white canvas or linen, lined with sheet wadding on each side. Work one
simple design in the corner; buttonhole the edge with linen floss. The
merest scraps serve to make them.
Where it is necessary to make a large number of Christmas remem-
brances these inexpensive articles will serve for many of them. Of course,
one would naturally make up ornamental holders for this purpose, rather
than those for kitchen use, though even these would prove acceptable to
many a busy housewife. A good material is colored Hollywood drapery
or the cream white if preferred.
PAPER HOLDER.
A piece of pasteboard, about 18x22 inches, is used for the back found-
ation. This is covered with
garnet satin and deco-
rated with brocaded rib-
ites; work with filo floss, Nos. 1262, 1263 and 1264, using brown for the cen-
ters. For the leaves use the olive green.
These holders are useful as well as ornamental, and may be made of a
variety of materials. If satin and silk are too expensive, celluloid or egg-
shell board may be used, in which case the design must be painted.
m Dainty work for pleasure and profit.
HANDKERCHIEF SACHET.
The illustration shows a handkerchief sachet made of cream white
plush lined with quilted blush rose satin. The edges are bound with silver
FANCY TABLE.
This dainty little table is at once useful and inexpensive, and best of
all, easily made at home. The material need be nothing better than com-
mon pine, two pieces for top and shelf, 24x24
inches, one inch thick, and four pieces two-inch
stuff for legs. The top, shelf and legs can be
covered with art linen in yellow brown, old blue
or shrimp pink, or the whole can be treated to a
coat of English enamel, any color desired. The
enamel is 40 cents a jar, and one jar will do con-
siderable decorating. If the linen is used as a
cover, a pretty decoration would be an all-over
Roman embroidery design stamped on the cover
and worked out with white linen floss. Instead fig. 194-
of cutting away the ground from back of the lace lines it would be better
for this purpose to outline them directly on the material.
DAINTY TRIFLES. ^95
SUNFLOWER PENWIPE.
Stamp on chamois skin any one of the many pretty sunflower patterns
that can be had for five cents,
center from cardboard; cover it with the velvet, cut the petals out of the
felt and fasten on to the back edge of center. This is a little more work
than the first mentioned method.
SOFA CUSHION.
In figures 196, 197 and 198 we show three very comfortable as well as
pretty sofa cushions. These particular cush-
ions are not designed to repose in state, at a
most uncomfortable angle on the best sofa
in the best room. They are for everyday
use; and, as comfort has been considered, the
cushion proper has been made nearly square
and lightly filled with feathers or hair. It is
with old blue filo floss in satin stitch with a center of yellow French knots.
i
DAINTY TRIFLES. 197
thoroughly in cold water and roll up in the form of an egg; leave an opening
to the side from end to end; secure in position with a string. Let it become
quite dry, when it will retain its shape without trouble; prepare a lining of
silk for the inside, which should be wadded lightly and quilted, fasten this
numbers 1248, 1249, 1251. Stretch this cover over the shape, being careful
not to leave any wrinkles; finish the opening with a frill of soft lace and
ornament each end with bows of ribbon in two shades of numbers 1300 and
1301. The effect of this little trifle depends upon the neatness with which
it is made. It should look light and dainty and not in the least useful, and,
of course, is better adapted for fairs and bazaars, where it will be certain to
attract purchasers, than for sober everyday use. Made of more durable
materials they are useful catchalls for the dressing table.
FOOT CUSHION.
Small cushions are much used in place of foot stools. The model
shown in figure 200 is made of chamois
skin. The cushion should be first
cumference of one of the circles, the other circle should be sewed to the
other edge of the strip, leaving an opening for stuffing. When the cushion
is designed for a foot-rest, excelsior will be found a good stuffing; if for a
seat to an ottoman, then feath-
ers or hair will be more com-
fortable. After the cushion is
Roman embroidery design and work it with brown or white linen floss.
Do not cut the material away from the background unless it is intended to
line the cover with silk, but outline the lace stitches instead of carrying across
DAINTY TRIFLES. 199
from one outline to another. On the under cover work a row of buttonhole
stitches, and at equal distances apart sew to the edges of both covers brass
rings which have been crocheted over with the linen floss. Place the cush-
ion in the center of the bottom cover, and over it put the top cover; lace
them together over the cushion with heavy silk cord.
The cover for figure 202 is made of deep blue mail cloth on which is
arranged a design of poppies, cut out of white ooze leather. Select any
design having full blown poppies in one or two positions; stamp them on
the leather, cut out with a pair of sharp scissors and glue to the foundation.
When the design is in position, outline all the edges of the poppies with
gold cord or bullion. Fill the center with French knots made of gold
thread, and for the scrolls couch down white couching silk with geld thread.
The puffs should be white India silk and the covers should be laced
together with gold cord.
These two cushions are very desirable for churchOf course
fairs, etc.
the cushion may be made of other materials and combination of colors, and
decorated to suit individual taste.
small bows.
This makes a dainty gift for a gentleman
friend at little expense.
Celluloid or leatherette may be used in place
of the eggshell board; or, a cover can be made ^^g. 203.
cashmere and other woolen material will work up with good effect. Put a
chain stitch with etching silk over all the seams; face the hem with a piece
of bright colored silk. A number of laundry bags of different sizes will
alwa3-s find sah; at fairs and bazaars; beside they make a most acccp able
Christmas gift to any woman. The expense of getting them up is but
trifling, provided one e.xerciscs common sense in selecting ihe r.MtcriuU.
DAINTY TRIFLES. 201
PUMPKIN CUSHION.
Figure 205 shows a design for a pumpkin cushion. It is intended for
use on the dressing table and is made as follows: Make a round cushion
the desired size and stuff
with cotton or hair; cut
two semi-circles of yellow
satin or surah silk and
cover the cushion. Divide
into sections as shown in
ting the needle up through the cushion to top again; this forms one
section. Repeat this, carrying the thread down the sides of the cushion at
equal distances apart, until you have marked off as many sections as are
desired. Fasten the thread at the top of cushion where the handle is to be
placed. Two curved pieces of cardboard should be covered with green silk
and glued into position for a handle. The embroidery must be done before
the cover is put on the cushion. The model shows a vine of morning glor-
ies worked with one strand of filo floss in short and long stitch; blue — palest
shade — for the flowers, and two shades lily green for the stems and leaves.
Provided one can paint and would prefer that style of decoration, the
cushion may be made of cream white satin, which should receive a ground-
ing of deep yellow over which the design should be laid in.
A cushion made after this model would be sure to prove a great attrac-
tion at any sale, or would be a very pretty gift for any occasion. They
need not be so elaborately decorated unless desired.
—
arrangement of roses or
pansies without foliage
see illustration — and
painted with the gold
paint. The piece of leath-
erette decorated as direct-
ed should be backed by a
piece of stiff cardboard a
size smaller, and the edges
IniMMT"' J "- <—M^ of the leatherette should
I III
I saga— ' '• i ll t
squarely around the opening in the frame and tie a bow at the upper cor-
ner — complete by fastening a wire standard in the back to support the
frame.
Any other material may be used for the frame, as eggshell board,
celluloid, ivorine, plain cardboard covered with satin decorated with flat
PHOTOGRAPH ENVELOPE.
An accumulation of photographs beyond the capacity of the family
album is an embarrassment of riches to many people. A convenient
receptacle for these "left-overs" will be found illustrated in figure 207. To
make: Cut out of parchment paper a
sheet 7x13 inches; fold the two side
flaps together down the center and cut
into shape at the bottom edges; turn
the bottom of the parchment up to
one-half its depth and cut into shape
see illustration, figure 207, The flaps are
Cupids done in water colors; the lettering is done with gold paint, all of
which can be easily accomplished by the merest novice with brush and pencil.
PIN TRAYS.
Small trays for holding pins and loose toilet articles are convenient for
the dressing table. It is not
always desirable to stick pins,
big and little, into a handsome
cushion, and these little trays
make a most convenient recep-
tacle. The model, figure 208,
shows two shapes, one inside
the other, for making. The
larger tra}^ is made of a piece
of ivorine six and one-half by
FIG. 208. nine inches. Slash the corners
of the ivorine in to a depth of one and one-quarter inches, beginning one
inch from the points; this will give a slant to the sides and ends when
204 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
turned up; the edges should be turned up to one and one-quarter inches,
forming a shallow pan. Use the polished surface of the ivorine for the
outside of tray; on the inside edges paint a row of wild roses, without
foliage, in oil colors— see figure 208. Cut the outer edges of the rose petals
out to form an ornamental finish and fasten the corners together
with tiny bows of ribbon. The tray in the center of illustration is cut in
triangular shape, of the same material, and painted on the edges with a row
of daisies. These trays can also be made of heavy linen twill; hem the
edges and turn up to a depth of one and one-half inches; fasten the corners
with a securing stitch and ornament the bottom with a Dresden design done
with silk or linen floss. The twill should be heavily starched before turn-
ing the edges up; this keeps it in shape.
ishes the basket. The long lines of the sides are artistically broken by loop-
ings of this cord, across from where the silk fullness begins. Other colors
may be used, but all must harmonize or the basket will not be "a thing of
beauty."
The most convenient way to paint the panels will be to first cover them
entirely and evenly with the gray background; gray is simply red, blue and
yellow combined, and is bluish, purplish or greenish, according to the pre-
dominating colors in the mixture. In mixing put your red and blue
together with a very little ivory black and a good deal of white, and then
tone with the yellow. When this background is dry, paint the flowers upon
it. For the colors needed and the method of putting them on see chapter
on "Brush and Palette."
Should embroidery be preferred, instead of painting, it must be done
before the covering is fastened to the pasteboard. Any of the conventional
forms preferred may be used. If yellow is the color chosen, Nos. 8i, lO,
19, 82, 6, if red is the color, then 87, 58, 70 Real Scotch linen threads will be
required. The work should be done in solid Kensington stitch. The
leaves should be done in browns or olives. Of course, in case embroidery
STAR QUILT.
The subject of quilts is a most social topic of conversation. How many
a romance has been stitched into patchwork squares will never be known,
and the woman who has never solved the mystery of the "Irish chain," "fox
and geese" and the "Greek cross" has missed half the sweetness of life.
The old styles of patchwork quilts are still made, and probably always
will be, but in these days of elegant fabrics and perfect embroidery mate-
rials at such fabulously low prices women have been tempted to stray
beyond the limits of calico quilts, and indulge in something a little more
ambitious. The popular quilt is nov/ the star quilt, and for a raffle piece, for
fairs or church festival, there could be no more attractive article. As the
stars are worked separately and joined afterward, a number of people couH
DAINTY TRIFLES. 207
work on the quilt at once, and then, too, there is such a variety of work
necessary that even grandma's eyesight would enable her to add her mite.
The method of working is as follows: The materials used are first, four
yards good quality domestic linen, quite heavy, with a nice smooth surface,
ferred; each star however, should contain but one kind of filling stitch;
but each star in the quilt may be of a different pattern, that is, use fish net
in one star cross stitch in another, and so on. For the center part of star,
crochet a sufficient number of the brass rings with the etching silk, and
208 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
sew them in a circle to the linen. This makes a very effective linish.
After the embroidery is done, cut out all the linen from the points of the
star with a pair of sharp scissors; this will leave a six-pointed star only,
To bottonhole the edges of star will require about one skein etching
silk, while the filling stitches in the points of star will require three to
four skeins, and for the tassels, one skein etching silk will make three.
The illustration on page 208 shows two of the spaces formed in setting
star together filled with cobweb stitch — this method is not arbitrary, as the
quilts are quite as frequently finished without as with, but of course this
method adds much to the beauty of the quilt when finished. As will be
seen, threads are carried from different portions of the star points, across
the open space, these are worked over with cobweb stitch, which is simply
running a silk thread alternately over and under the crossing lines, loop
over in each instance with buttonhole stitch — this will hold the silk in
HANDY BAG.
Fancy bags are very convenient receptacles for the odds and ends that
accumulate, and which one occasionally has use for; suspended on the wall,
in a corner or on a table in the sitting room they are useful and ornamen-
tal. These bags should be decorated with needlework and made of suita-
ble material, art linen, silk, tapestry linen or cloth being best adapted for
the purpose The model, on page 207, shows a bag having the bottom gath-
ered in a point and finished with a tassel. The material is moss-green
210 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
satin, for the outside; the lining is of pink sateen, faced on the top to a
depth of three inches with pale pink China silk. A shirring is formed at
the bottom edge of the facing, into which an elastic rubber band is run.
This draws the top of bag together. The handles are formed of No. 12
pale pink satin ribbon, fastened to the bag as shown in the illustration.
The design ornamenting the front is a branch of pink daisies. The flower
is worked out with foiir shades of pale pink filo floss, shading from the
palest shade made down through four shades, in Kensington stitch. The
center of flower is filled with French knots. The leaves and stems are done
with the same stitch, in three shades of silver green. The buds are worked
with the deepest shade of the green and tipped at the very point with a
few stitches of the deepest shade of pink. The tassel at the end may be
made of rope silk or crewels, as preferred.
Cheaper bags can be made by using art linen for the foundation and
embroidering the design with linen threads.
TOILET CUSHION.
The cushion shown in the model, figure 212, is made a little longer
than wide, and is stuffed so that it is higher in the back and slopes at a
gentle angle to the front. This effect is secured by sewing side pieces tc
the top and bottom of cushion cover, having the back side pieces highe:
than the front. Cover
the cushion with pale
yellow surah silk, and
make for the top a
removable cover of
white silk bolting, bor-
EMORY CUSHION.
A little novelty easily made is shown in figure 213. It is an emory
cushion, made in the form of a leaf. Make a cushion the same shape as
ing attraction for fairs and bazaars. Flannel could be used in place of the
quite in order to fasten a bug of some kind-— not the real thing, of course,
but just as good an imitation as nimble fingers can fashion. We show here,
which can be attached to a lamp shade, or any of
in figure 214, a butterfly
the places mentioned, with good effect. Trace the shape of the wings by
means of impression paper, but twice the given size. This can be accurately
accomplished by means of a pantagraph. Cut the wings out of black vel-
vet paper, or if preferred, black crepe paper; paint with liquid gold the
markings shown in illustration, and fasten a fine hair wire around the wings
212 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
on the wrong side. To make the body, roll a piece of cotton lengthwise
until it is about twice the size of a lead pencil in thickness, v/rap it around
with the black paper and tie a piece of wire around the neck and at inter-
vals down the length of the body; fasten in pieces of wire for feet, and two
FIG. 214.
wires in the head, as shown; these must be gilded. Fasten the wings to
the body by means of mucilage. Several of these butterflies made up of
different colored paper would be very useful for filling up bare-looking
spaces.
MUSIC STAND.
To make the simple arrangement shown in figure 215 will require the
service of one's husband, father or brother, as the frame work will be beyond
the skill of most women, — note that we do not say all women. The four
upright pieces that form the sides of the stand should be 3 feet long ^
and the side braces 2 5^ feet long. In the center of the side pieces bore
two holes so that they come directly opposite each other; six inches from
the bottom ends bore holes large enough to receive the ends of the side
braces. Cross the two side pieces, like the letter X and fasten with a
double-headed screw or with a riveted nail, and put the side pieces in.
The material for the frame may be common pine or it may be old broom
handles; in any event, when the frame is fastened together give it a coat
linen, of a shade bordering on golden brown, four feet long by two feet
wide. Line it with dark brown canton flannel, of a good quality, and finish
the edges all around with a heavy
silk cord. Fasten the four cor-
ners of the tapestry linen to the
four side pieces of frame by
means of ecru-colored ribbon
bows. The sides of the pocket
should have an elaborate design
worked out with four shades of
golden brown Royal floss, dashed
with gold thread. This stand
will be found very convenient,
and inexpensive as well.
as the foundation. Mail cloth, velvet, silk and ooze leather are all desirable
fabrics for the pocket of stand, but of course more expensive than the linen.
In case ooze leather is employed, two skins will be required. The dec-
oration could be a conventional design stamped on the ooze leather ana
then gone over with gold paint. As this paint comes ready for use, a
person need not be an artist to apply it. This leather can be had in ecru,
white and bronze brown. The ecru treated as described would be effective.
The inside of pocket could be lined with some pretty, bright color,
either green, rose or blue china silk, and the edges finished with a
heavy cord.
Artistic pockets for rack can be also made of Scotch homespun, which
is a pure linen fabric, very heavy, but without any twill. The decoration
could be a Dresden design of buttercups worked with yellow browns in
silk or linen threads, or a design of music notes and violin could be worked
on one side.
^14 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
SCISSORS CASE.
A scissors case made as follows will be found a splendid article for
fair--, Christmas or birthday gifts. The case, of course, must be cut to
fit the scissors it is designed to hold, but the shape
can easily be copied from figure 216. Cut two pieces
of cardboard, line them on the inside with a piece
of chamois skin or velvet, cover the outside with
any scrap of silk or cloth that may be at hand. Join
the two pieces together with a buttonhole stitch,
done with rope silk or Royal floss. On the outside
cover work a design in solid Kensington stitch with
filo floss. The model shows lilies of the valley on
moss green velvet. The lining is of pink satin, and
the buttonhole stitching pale pink silk, though any
colors one happens to have will do equally well. To
embroider the design here shown will require one-
CRAWLING RUGS.
These rugs are the delight of every baby fortunate enough to possess
one. The foundation may be made of an old dress skirt, a piece of felt or
For fairs or bazaars they are a decided success. Where it is not desired
to make up more than one rug for a bazaar a nice profit can be made by
cutting sets of figures, ready for appliquing, out of bright felt or flannel.
They could be sold very cheap, as the scraps and work would of course be
aonated.
2l6 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
FOR THE DINING ROOM.
Nowadays there are so many pretty novelties used on the dining tables
and sideboards that one need never be at a loss what to make for Christ-
mas, wedding or birthday gifts, for one's married, or about-to-be-married
lady friends. In the chapter on "Flat or Art embroidery" will be found a
list of the various linen articles that are commonly used in the dining room.
In this chapter there are several ideas in the same direction that will be
found simple and inexpensive in the working out.
Doyleys, mats of var-
.M30s^
ious sizes, lunch sets, tray
and bread cloths, etc.,
white, while others prefer delicate shades of a color; but we would not
advise going beyond this- decided colors are not usually satisfactory used
on table linen.
Doyleys are always in order; they may be of different sizes and used
for a variety of purposes. It is a good idea to have several sets of different
sizes on hand, but decorated with colors that will harmonize — so that in
case it is necessary to use them all at one time, the colors will not swear at
each other. If you are obliged to make a wedding gift, be sure that the
bride will be delighted with any gift in this line. A set of six odd mats, a
DAINTY TRIFLES. 217
complete lunch set or a water server mat, will always find eager purchasers
at fairs; and for one's self no more satisfactory fancy work can be done
than making up "Dainty Trifles" for the dining room.
Figure 218, on the foregoing page, shows a design suitable for center
piece for luncheon. The working size is seventeen inches across, while
plate or cup doyleys from four to six inches across may be embroidered to
match. The material best adapted for this work is satin damask or Roman
twill. To make a center piece and six plate doyleys will require two-sixths
of a yard of the damask eighteen inches wide, three dozen skeins of etching
silk, or one and one-
half dozen skeins
Scotch linen floss, six
line stitch for the straight lines, daisy stitches for the figure in the center,
and French knots for the small circles in the center. The colors are of
course a matter of taste, but pure white Royal floss for filling in the basket
stitch, the same color etching silk for buttonholing the edges, and palest of
green for filling in the center, would give a pleasing effect, or the pale yel-
lows, pinks or blues would be effective.
Figure 219 is a very beautiful design which will require careful treat-
ment to bring out its beauty. It is not desirable to use this design reduced
in size for small doyleys. It is better to make the center pieces as shown
2l8 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
and then have the cup doyleys in the shape of the leaf without the flower
resting- on it; silk bolting is a beautiful material for the foundation of this
design. Treatment: First darn, in Queen Anne stitch, the entire surface
of leaf with pale silver green filo floss, shading to nearly white; work the
edge with a light buttonhole stitch taken on the edge of material — not over
a cord — with the same silk; with a shade of silk a trifle deeper work in a
few short and long stitches at regular distances around the edge of leaf,
outline the petals of flowers with white Royal floss, working some of the
petals with short and long stitch. For the shadows put in a few threads of
silver green filo floss; cut
the edges out very care-
fully and line the center
piece with pale pink silk
or with a rich gold or a
light green. The darning
stitches should not be
taken very close together,
but about as indicated in
the illustration. The silk
as a mat for bread plate, salad dish or fruit basket. The material for the
foundation may be fine huck-a-buck linen, satin damask, or satin sheeting.
To work the design as shown in the illustration will require, for a mat
seventeen inches across, two skeins smallest size German cord, one dozen
skeins etching silk or Royal floss. Work the edges of the center circle and
the four loops with plain buttonhole stitch over a German cord, fill in the
spaces in the loops and the circle with diamond couching, explained in the
chapter on "Ecclesiastical Embroidery." Work the outside edges of the
DAINTY TRIFLES. 219
center pieces with pointed short and long buttonhole stitch, previously
described, using for this part of the work Royal floss. The rays spreading
out from the circle between the loops will be effective in gold thread.
This design is exquisitely beautiful worked with pure white for everything
except the diamond couching and the rays, which should be of fine gold
thread, although any other combination of colors may be used to suit
individual fancy; as deep moss green and white for the couchings and rays,
or, old blue and silver threads; pale rose and gold, or, yellow in two
shades, one light and another shade at least two tones deeper. If linen
stitch and fill with plain diamond couching, done in gold thread; also work
the veining lines that spring from the center down each petal in the gold
thread. [ In using gold thread for table napcry, or indeed wherever it will
require washing, purchase the best, that which comes on spools giving bet-
ter satisfaction than that put up in skeins.] White silk and silver thread
the best adapted for working this design as indicated, and it will require a
oration desired, and yet be a little change from the dead white so long
used. If however the set is to be used over a white cloth, instead of on a
polished table, a little color will lend a pleasing variety to the table, all the
other appointments being in harmony; for this purpose pale dead rose, old
blue, or certain shades of yellow are effective.
The set could appropriately be made of silk bolting, in which case the
embroidery should be done with white silk and the doyleys and center
pieces lined with delicate colored surah or China silk.
DAINTY TRIFLES. 221
A SHOE BOX.
articles have been in use from time immemorial, but the one shown in figure
223 is both -convenient and ornamental. A soap box 14x18 inches will
answer for the box, the inside of which should be lined with white oil cloth,
tacked in neatly. Around the inside of the box, when lined, arrange a
strip of the oil-cloth, as wide as a shoe is long, and tack it into position
so as to form compartments or pockets, dividing each compartment by
means of a strip of brass braid, such as is used to finish the edge of floor
oil mats. A narrow strip
hem, and over the surface scatter dogwood blossoms and embroider them
with white Bargarren art thread for the petals, and a shade of yellow for
the center; arrange the strip around in box plaits, tacking on the top edge
of box with brass headed tacks. The cover for the top should be cut
three inches larger than the top of box, so as to allow it to fall over, scallop
the edges and work with buttonhole stitch and embroider dogwood blos-
Wkoms over the surface, fasten the cover to box by means of small hinges
and fasten a stout braid from the middle of cover to
fthe side ofof box,cloth,shown
r strips oil
figure
as in 223.
222 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
BURNT MATCH HOLDER.
Nothing presents a more untidy appearance than burnt matches scat'
tered over dresser or commode. A pretty little affair to hold them is shown
in figure 224. It will be an acceptable
gift to almost any lady, especially if she
be of the busy practical sort who never
"finds time to do fancy work."
The holder proper must be purchased and
may be any pretty shaped glass, either white
provide several of these small square covers for each cushion, each one
worked differently, and as wash material will be used in their manufacture,
the cushion can be kept ever fresh and clean with little trouble.
FOOTSTOOL.
These little footrests are made in divers shapes, and decorated accord-
ing to individual fancy. The model has a frame painted with white
English enamel, a piece of canvas, tacked on to the frame, forms the bed
for the cushion, which is made of ticking filled with sea moss, and covered
with pale yellow silk, on one corner of which is embroidered a graceful
arrangement of daisies, worked out v/ith dull yellow filo floss, shading to a
yellow brown. The cushion is
The material for cushion cover will be a piece of silk twelve by twenty-four
inches, and the silk or ribbon to fasten cover on should be four inches wide
and one and one-half yards long.
CHILD'S CHAIK.
At the season when the little remembered the
folks are especially to be
little chair here shown will serve as an idea which can be enlarged upon to
suit the fancy. The chair shown is one of the ordinary wooden affairs sold
in stores for twenty cents. Taken home and treated to a coat of ecru-colored
English enamel, and decorated as shown, it could not be purchased for
$5.00, and would make a gift that would delight the heart of the most exacting
infant.The cushion for the seat is cut to fit, and filled with wool or feathers.
The small cushion for the back should also be filled with the same mate-
224 Dainty work for pleasure and profit.
ials. The outside covers may be made of any material preferred; by far
of art cord, sewed on with invisible stitches. Curve the side pieces out-
DAINTY TRIFLES. 22^
ward slightly and the work is done. If celluloid or eggshell board is used
the decoration must be painting, with oil or water color.
HEAD REST.
Head rests ftr backs of chairs are always in order, and those made
long and somewhat narrow are preferable to the fancy shapes, especially
when designed to be used on a sitting-room or library chair. The fancifully-
shaped trifles are better suited
for parlor, reception and draw-
ing room chairs.
The rests are made from
silk, satin, linen, — white or
clored — velvet, chamois skin,
pointed at each end. Cover each piece on both sides with soft silk, join
226 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
the pieces as shown in figure 230, after which finish all the joinings with a
cord terminating at the ends with loops and tassels. Suspend by means of a
cord fastened at the ends. The model is covered with pale heliotrope
satin on which is
embroidered on
the front edge pale
wood violets. The
pieces of card-
board should be
exactly of a size,
it is better to cut
^^^- ^30-
one piece the re-
quired size and shape, and then cut the other pieces, using this as a pattern.
The entire effect of such articles as here shown depend upon the neat-
ness of the work for their beauty almost entirely.
silk and a bit of cotton. To make: roll a piece of cotton in the hand
until it resembles the desired shape, then cover smoothly with soft china
silk in the proper shape for the article represented, or in white silk tinted
with diamond dyes to the required shade. Apply the dyes with a brush
after the cushion is made.
DAINTY TRIFLES. 227
Other vegetables and fruits can be imitated in the same manner with
equal success, for instance, toma-
toes of the small, round varieties;
strawberries, of exaggerated size;
pears and peaches, can all be re-
much reduced size, covered with yellow velvet and filled with emery.
or lighter fabrics, as silk and merino, but in such cases they must be
lightly wadded and
lined. There are vari-
this purpose.
TABLE COVER.
So much depends upon the size of the table, the place it is to occupy,
r^s^^r-^t^" ci''
d...
FIG. 234.
Standards, are usually covered with a square of. plush or silk, or other fabric,
covered with embroidery, and edged with lace or fringe. Tables for dining
and sitting rooms are more generally covered with a large cloth, reaching
nearly to the floor, and made of either Bargarren art cloth, hollywood
drapery, Devonshire art cloth, mail cloth or tapestry linen, and decorated
with cross stitch borders, fringes and conventional designs. Figure 234
DAINTY TRIFLES. 229
shows a table cover made of No. 6. Bargarren art cloth, having a border
worked out in cross stitch with three shades of brown Bargarren linen
thread. Figure 235 shows detail of pattern, which can be easily copied.
The design is carried across the top and worked in quarter sections. Any-
other colored thread could be used. The edge is finished with scallops,
buttonhole stitched with the same thread as used for the cross stitch. This
design is and can be duplicated by a person having no previous knowl-
easy,
edge of Embroidery, simply by following design and making a cross stitch
in each mesh of the,
fabric.
Kensington embroi-
dery is most effectively
employed on table
covers made of fabrics
having a silken surface,
as mail cloth, Russian i
of good, strong brown wire for each leg. Wind with brown silk thread, and
at the bottom spread apart to form claws; the upper end of the wires must
be fastened to the ball of wool. When the chicken is finished stand it in
the center of the prepared leaves, and lo! you have the cutest possible
penwipe.
BRANCH OF FRUIT.
There are many pretty little novelties that can be made from tissue
paper — not the old-fashioned plain tissue, but the velvet and crepe papers,
which are so beautiful and not at all expensive —that we think Dainty
Trifles would not be complete without a few illustrations oi what can be done
with this material. Figure 237 shows a branch of fruit which is effective,
branch by winding the wire with the brown papel*, twisting it around
smoothly and evenly. Cut the leaves from the
velvet paper; they should be about three inches
long. Cut the green paper into strips about
four inches long by two inches wide, fold dowii
the center and taper the end to an oval point
with the scissors, and the base of the leaf
should also be sloped off. With a No. i brush
vein the leaves with liquid gold paint, as indi-
cated by markings in the illustration. For the
oranges roll a piece of cotton wool into a ball
and cover with the orange-colored paper; fas-
ten one orange to the end of the branch by in-
serting the wire directly in the center of the
fruit; for the two remaining oranges insert a
wires with brown paper. Gum the leaves into position, and the branch is
finished.
DUST CAP.
The little dust cap illustrated in figure 238 is not so very ornamental,
but its usefulness entitles it to a place
guest room. To make the larger of the two shown, cut two squares of tissue
2^2 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
paper the same size; use a deep old-rose shade for the outer square and 3
Figure No. 241 is more simple. The pouch is made of chamois skin,
The outlines should be worked with buttonhole short and long stitch. The
petals should also be marked into diamond-shaped spaces by means of
the bottom of the water receptacle can be made to fill the spider web
portion of the mat, the effect will be even prettier.
NEEDLE CASES.
Figures 246 to 248 show two pretty needle cases. They are designed
FIG. 246.
for utility, but may also be as ornamental as one chooses. Figures 246 and
247 show a needle case open and closed. To make, cut a strip of velvet,
236 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
celluloid or chamois skin eight inches long by three inches wide, lined with
a strip of red satin. In one end fasten a tiny silken
bag for thimble, etc.; in the center fasten a spool of
any article in this chapter may be varied to suit the convenience of the worker.
KENSINGTON COVER FOR CUSHION.
Figure 249 illustrates a beautiful design for sofa cushion cover, to be
worked out in Kensington stitch with filo floss on mail cloth. The colors
white brown to a pinkish brown; four shades were used in each rose; the
forget-me-nots were done in old blue, with a tiny French knot in pale
yellow; the star-shaped flowers were shaded with pale pink, and the ribbon
and foliage were treated with lily green in four shades. Anything more
beautiful and artistic could hardly be devised, the effect of the semi-con-
ventional shading being extremely rich. The edge was finished with a row
of gold lace.
Furniture covers m.ade of unbleached linen, of heavy quality, and with
a decided twill. These covers are designed to protect handsomely uphol-
stered furniture from the ravages of dust, light and moths, but they are
sometimes also used to hide the ravages of time and hard usage. In either
case they should be made to fit exactly, and the work should be done
neatly and thoroughly. There is no excuse for furniture swathed in an
untidy mass of loose cloth. The covers may or may not be ornamented,
according to the washes of the owner, but where the covers are designed to
be used throughout the greater part of the year, it will be more pleasing to
the eye if there is a trifle of well-wrought needlework on each cover.
There are two methods of embroidering furniture covers, either of
which will be recognized as artistic. The first is to decorate each piece with
cross-stitch, done with linen floss in monotone. Pages 140 and 141 show
238 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
appropriate designs, and in the chapter on "Berlin Embroidery" will be
found instructions for working. The second method is solid Kensington
stitch, with wash fllo floss silk. For this purpose natural forms of flowers
may be selected, but the shading should be done in dull conventional
shades, as described in the chapter on " Shading," as a constant sight of
covers embroidered in glaring reds, yellows, pinks or blues will soon be-
come an almost unbearable eyesore.
NASTURTIUM CUSHION.
The cushion shown in figure 250 is simple and elegant. The founda-
dation is a square cushion.rather flat, covered on both sides with dark blue
plush or velvet. The back
cover is cut large enough
to lap over on the front
side, joining a facing or
hem about four inches
deep. The front of the
scattered nasturtiums,
which have been just
stamped on a piece of
around the edges, with a shade of silk deeper than the satin flowers. The
cushion is finished with a bow of ribbon, two shades, nasturtium yellow and
pale blue.
In using the fish-net covering, any scheme of color may be carried out,
and the effect of the net over satin is particularly pleasing. A beautiful
cushion could be made in this manner by covering cream satin with cream
white net, and appliqueing pansies in different shades of pansy purples,
shading into pale heliotrope, with a dash of yellow; or, over the net, a
—
powdered design of blush roses, worked in solid Kensington with rose pink
filo floss. There is hardly a limit to the diversity of ornamenting cushions,
but as has been frequently observed in these pages, the use to which each
cushion is to be put must be carefully considered. Such a cushion as
described above would be suitable only in a reception or drawing room or
guest chamber.
INFANTS' TOILET CASE.
This dainty little affair will at once commend itself to those mothers
of little ones who visit or travel occasionally. Many small articles are
needed for baby's
comfort, and it is so
necessary to have
them all together.
A piece of pale
green moire silk, 27
inches square, lined
with a stiffening
crinoline will do
and over this anoth-
er lining of pale pink
China silk, fitted on
to the edges of the
outside green silk, so
that the pink lining
will lay in little puffs fig. 251.
comb, sponge, powder and puff, would make a gift for an infant's trousseau
given as a foundation on which to work out her own taste. There are many
novelties which the scope of this work will not permit us to enlarge upon,
but we must be permitted one more word before we pass on to the next
subject, viz., ''Keep a Scrap Bag!' The numbers of pretty little trifles that
can be made from the accumulation of ribbon, velvet, silk, flannel, and the
usual odds and ends that will accumulate, is indeed surprising. To women
of limited means it is most discouraging to be compelled to purchase each
item for making the smallest trifle of fancy work, and many homes go un-
adorned because of the neglect to care for the little scraps that an ingenious
mind and nimble fingers could fashion into articles of use and beauty.
Again, despise not the simple and inexpensive means of decorating a
mantel, shelf, table or dressing case. Tissue paper, scrim, muslin, crochet
linen, etc., may all be used effectively, and it is not at all necessary to wait
until you are able to buy silk, plush, velvet, etc., for the work before at-
DRAWN WORK.
FIG. 252.
nearly all grades of linen may be used, provided the threads are even and the
surface smooth. The quality of linen known to the trade as "round thread
linen," is best adapted, as the threads are easily drawn, and the remaining
threads are firm and smooth. Scrim, surah silk, lawn, mull — all may be
decorated with drawn work. The work should be done in either a square
242 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
frame, having the work stretched in it according to directions given in the
chapter on "Implements," or in a pair of hoops, as shown in figure 252. To
work with, linen crochet thread. No. 80, is most desirable to use, though the
beautifully colored wash silks are frequently employed on white goods and
always on silk and colored fabrics.
First cut out a space the desired size for the first square, next leave an
equal space of plain linen, repeat until the requi-
site number of squares is obtained, pull out the
threads from each side; the pattern is then ready
for working.
Where a border only is desired, the
threads are drawn from edge to edge, see _Mi%2£
figure 256.
p^g 254
The threads drawn, we are now ready to proceed to the work of making
the patterns and this brings us to the question of stitches.
DRAWN WORK. 243
Foundation Stitches.
The stitches used in complicated patterns of drawn work, are those
given in the chapter on lace making. The number used in any given
pattern is limited and when the work done by use of the threads of the ma-
is
terial, is confined to varieties of knot stitch and weaving stitch. For instance:
the corner shown in No. 258 is made entirely from these two stitches —the
varieties of these two stitches include hem stitching, ladder stitch, her-
ringbone, duck's tail, spider web, raised wheel, flat wheel and woven wheels.
Hem Stitching.
The most useful of all drawn work stitches is the simple hemstitch
shown in letter c, in figure 256. This stitch enters into almost every pat-
FIG. 255.
tern for drawn work; for instance, when the threads are drawn for a design
the first operation should be to hemstitch the edges or the material where
the threads were drawn, to prevent the further loosening of threads, see
letter c, figure 256.
The method making hemstitching is simple; commence at the left
of
and work to the right is a rule to be remembered. Where hemstitching is
to be applied as a finish to a hem of any article, a few threads only are
drawn, the number in any case depending on the fine or coarse quality of the
material. If very fine, more threads must be drawn, three to five, will in
244 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFlt.
most cases be sufficient. The depth of the hem must be first determined,
and the threads drawn twice the distance of the width of the hem from the
edge. The hem should then be turned and basted into position close to
FIG. 256.
the first drawn thread, commence at the left and put the needle point at the
back of the drawn threads, taking up three to four threads; be sure that the
thread in the needle is to the right and tmder the needle, forming a half-
loop. Pull the needle through towards you; repeat to the end. This
Drawn work. 245
^
^4^ DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
arrangement it has the appearance of knotted chain. Figure 257 shows the
knot stitch so applied, as well as the method of placing thread to make.
To make the knot stitch: carry the thread upward and to the left, forming
a loop; insert the needle under the drawn threads to be tied and draw
upward through the loop. The needle when inserted under the threads
should point to the right and the thread should be drawn through care-
fully and firmly. Knot stitch will require some practice in order to make
it exact and smooth
each time, as its
knotting threads;
letters d d, same fig-
in figure 256. In this pattern the thread is carried from one group to the
next, forming a strand through the center. The next step in forming this
DRAWN WORK. 247
pattern is to commence at the first strand of the first knotted group and
make a knot stitch about one-eighth of an inch from the upper edge, carry
the thread across to the next strand and knot again; continue this knotting
until the four strands have been knotted, when the thread must be carried
down to the lower half {vi^yiX. the center knot) of the second group of fours,
this thread is then knotted across each of the four strands, when it is
carried upward to the upper half of the third group of fours. This opera-
tion must be continued until all of the groups have been knotted; commence
again at the first
nttltii
first cut out — see figure 254. The cut
edge is next buttonhole stitched to
prevent raveling. The threads are then
drawn from each way, as shown in figure
253. The border is first worked with
knot stitch, as previously described,
and the working thread, as each row of
knotting is finished, is carried across
the cut out corner and invisibly fastened
into the edge of the material. To work
FIG. 261. the corner shown, commence in the
center with the working thread and weave over and under all threads a
few times; this will form a flat wheel. Then pick up seven threads and
weave back 3iXi<\ forth over and under them, until about one-third the distance
from the center to the corner of design has been so treated. Now continue
the weaving, but drop one thread at each side and weave over five instead
needle through the woven spike to the center and cut off at the back of the
work. Leave one thread and take up the next seven and work as before,
and so on until the four corners of the square are filled with woven spikes.
FIG. 262.
When the work is completed there will be left on each side one unworked
thread — all similar ornaments are made in exactly the same way, being
FIG. 263.
varied only by the number of threads woven, and the different number of
the rows of weaving. To weave, here means to put the point of needle
under one thread, over the next, under the third, over the fourth, and so
on, repeating back and forth.
250 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
Figure 259 illustrates a corner and border different from any
yet shown. In the construction are used four stitches, knot stitch,
''-----'----"'^--^'"^^^^^^^^^^
%nr.>uuiniiittjiin:uif
drawn from each way. In the model the insertion is one and one-quarter
inches deep. Both edges of the insertion are hemstitched and a row of
knot stitch is worked top and bottom about one-eighth of an inch from the
edge of the material, across the entire insertion. The border is made by
DRAWN WORK. 251
wa^^//;«/H/iirtmi'r/miimaiHiii«it'i"'iin«"niuiMHiiiKi'M'M«ii«««^«iiinniirini«iuiiiuiiiiw^^
*
Ia
Strand and weave back and forth over the four strands until the center is
j
reached, when the sixth strand and the eleventh strand must be woven in
with two rows of weaving; drop the sixth and the eleventh strands and
I
I
proceed as before.
17
252 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
To work the corners some extra threads must be put in; the corner
requires 26 threads to form the pattern. Commence in the center and tie
all the threads together with a knot stitch; then weave over eight threads
as follows: starting from the center, weave over three threads for a distance,
pick up the fourth and proceed as before; next take five threads and con-
tinue until the ten threads have been woven over. Go back to the center
and begin the second spoke of the wheel, and so on until all the threads
have been woven close to the edge of the material. A close following of
the design will render this part of the work extremely simple.
eighths of an inch each way. In knotting the drawn threads the working
thread is carried straight across the cut-out square, and forms the founda-
tion for the spikes and wheels, which are fitted in. The spikes are woven
as described for the corner for figure 258; three threads being woven over
for each corner. To weave the spikes and wheels commence in the center
and weave outward. An unwoven thread is left on each of the four sides
of the square.
To make Raised Wheels.
The woven raised wheel shown in the center of design 260, is made by
working over the threads carried across in knotting the drawn thread
spaces. All the threads are tied together in the center with a knot stitch;
the raised wheel is made by putting the needle under two of the threads,
back again, under the last of the two threads, and one new one, and repeat-
ing, going around the center until the wheel is large enough. Figure 261
shows raised wheel in detail.
DRAWN WORK. 253
Flat Wheel.
A flat wheel is made in the same manner as the raised wheel except
that the needle is put under and over every spoke of the wheel until the
desired size is attained,
Spider-Web Wheel.
A spider-web wheel is made by knotting the working thread around
each spoke of the wheel, at equal distances from each other. Use the
regular knot stitch for this purpose. Figure 262 shows a wheel as part of
an insertion pattern; it is also very suitable for corners. Figure 263 shows
the spike stitch with flat wheel center, and the spider-web stitch with raised
wheel center, and knotted stitch for the outer spokes; these will suggest
variations for the spike and spider-web wheel, which will give pleasing
variety to a pattern.
One-half inch above this is an insertion one and one-quarter inches deep.
The pattern for the insertion and corners is shown in figure 259, and is
worked after directions given for that figure. A space of the material one-
half inch wide is left above the insertion, and a border two and three-
eighths inches deep is worked according to directions for figure 259,
another space of material is left, and the center —a space one and three-
quarter inches square is filled with spikes and raised wheels.
Doyley Designs.
The doyleys shown on pages 254, 255, 256 are all made of fine linen,
and worked with weaving and knot stitches, hemstitching, spike stitch,
spider-web wheel, raised wheel and flat wheel, all of which have been
described.
254 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
Decorative Art.
Designs fumislied by the Chicago Society of
CHAPTER XIV.
do the painting for the trade. One lady in New York has, in the past few
years, purchased a home and supported an aged mother and two younger
sisters painting calendars, letter holders, telegram covers, etc., for a large
wholesale firm in that city. There may not be much of what professional
artists call " art," in this style of decoration, but it produces wonderfully
pretty effects, at little cost, and so places the beautiful within the reach of
the many, instead of confining it among the few wealthy fortunates.
Note.—The illustrations given in Brush and Palette are described in detail in Chapter XVIII.
258 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
The following instructions will be found practical, reliable and easily
comprehended.
Designs for Painting.
Many ladies imagine they cannot paint because they cannot draw.
None of the paintings on fabrics displayed in the stores are drawn. The
design is first stamped upon the fabrics by means of perforated stamping
patterns, according to directions given in the chapter on "Designing."
after which they are painted according to the instructions given in this
chapter.
We will discuss first.
course some fabrics are better for this kind of decoration than others; but
silk, satin, muslin, linen, silk bolting, wool and silk canvas, give the best
results, while fairly good success may be obtained on plush (short nap) and
felt. To paint upon plush, felt, silk or satin no preparation of the material
is needed. Stamp the design lightly with a powder, dust it off lightly, and
tack the fabric on a board, or stretch it in a pair of embroidery frames.
When painting on silk or satin, to prevent the oil from the paints spread-
ing beyond the design, put the paints first on blotting paper, which will
absorb the superfluous oil. The materials necessary for painting on fabrics
are few and simple, as follows:
of turpentine.
Colors. — A limited list of colors for decorative painting will be needed,
as follows: zinc white, light red, vermilion, madder lake, cadmium, burnt
.
sienna, terra verte, zinnober green, Vandyke brown, rose madder, Antwerp
blue, raw umber, ivory black and mauve. Others may be added if desired.
part.
Yellow Lake. — Umber and white, equal parts; add Naples yellow and
scarlet lake; glaze with yellow lake.
Jonquil Yellow. — Mix flake white and Chinese yellow, and add vermilion
to carmine.
18
26o DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
Clay Drab. — Raw sienna, raw umber and white lead, equal parts, and
then tint with chrome green.
Ordinary Drab. —White, 9 parts; umber, part. 1 ,
Orange. — Made with gamboge and burnt sienna. Useful for the autumnal
tints, and to mix with the other greens, in order to vary their tone and
depth, but not to be used in very warm sky tints.
To Produce Grays.
Indigo, lampblack, and madder lake.
Indigo and Indian red.
Indigo and light red.
Indigo, lake and gamboge.
Indigo, lake and Roman ocher.
Indigo and Venetian red.
Indigo, raw sienna and lake.
Indigo, sepia and lake.
Indigo and purple madder.
Indigo, light red and lampblack.
Indigo, burntumber and lake.
Indigo, madder purple and burnt umber.
Lampblack and madder lake.
Lampblack and burnt madder.
Lampblack and light red.
Lampblack and lake.
Cobalt green, cyanine blue, carmine madder, for silvery grays, through
lilacs to purple.
The colors given in the first list answer for all kinds of painting
for decorative purposes, no matter by what name it may be called, except
for tapestry and china painting, a list or colors for which we give later.
The designs that best lend themselves to decorative painting are all field
Begin by putting in the general tone of the blossom with zinc white,
rose madder and a trifle black. For the calyx use terra vert and cadmium,
and in the center of flower burnt sienna and cadmium, with a touch of zin-
nober green. This for the yellow stamens. The high lights are painted
A good sky effect can be produced by going over the surface with
cobalt and zinc white, with a little castle earth at the bottom. Over the
blue scatter gray and white clouds; for gray see table for mixing colors.
Mix the colors carefully, and do not work the strokes of the brush together
very much, as the broken effect is much more desirable. This part of the
work should be done with a large bristle brush, and must be allowed to dry
perfectly before putting in the design, which may be stamped on through
a perforated pattern with white powder. We will suppose a design of
daisies to be painted on the background just described, the colors needed
will be zinc white, pale cadmium, pink madder — the tiniest bit possible.
Make a green for the leaves and stems by mixing on your palette a little
Antwerp blue, cadmium, and ivory black, or terra verte and zinnober green
may be used, modified with zinc white.
First, take out a small quantity of white on the palette, and we will say
here, in taking paint from the tubes, always squeeze the paint from the
bottom of the tubes; add to the white paint two or three drops of the
poppy oil as a dryer. Mix thoroughly with the palette knife, and apply
with a No. 2 brush. Begin at the top of the petals, laying on the color with
smooth, even strokes, being careful not to go over the outlines. Take up
BRUSH AND PALETTE. 263
the paint on the point of the brush, which should be held almost perpen-
dicularly. This method lays the color on heavily. When the petals are
perfectly dry, retouch them with white, to which a very little pink madder
has been added. The cadmium is for the center of the daisies. The leaves
and stems are to be painted with the green mentioned.
Some artists use a great quantity of paint on textile fabrics, while
others use very little. It is a question to be decided by individual prefer-
ence. For white velvet the colors should be mixed with turpentine, and
carefully painted over a coating of gum arabic, which has been previously
applied to the velvet.
Special Palettes.
We have prepared instructions for painting a number of different
flowers and foliage, which can be ap-
plied to any purpose preferred, and the
designs can be had in perforated pat-
terns, very gracefully arranged. These
instructions will frequently call for
other colors than those mentioned in
the list of colors. They can be added
to the list if desired, or a substitute
can frequently be made by using the
Strawberry Spray.
A pretty design for this spray, 17x14, can be obtained in perforated
stamping patterns. Bronze satin or plush would be a suitable background.
The paints needed will be scarlet lake, emerald and chrome green, Chinese
Vermillion, lemon-yellow and white. If you wish to paint on satin, use soft
brushes and drying oil; if on velvet or plush, use "clipped" brushes, and
turpentine for mixing the paints.
Paint the leaves with emerald and chrome green, mixed, giving a
lighter shade on one side by adding a very little lemon-yellow. The veins
in the leaves must be made with the finest brush, using brown madder.
When this is very dry, retouch them with pure chrome green. Use equal
parts of Chinese vermilion and scarlet lake for the berries, lightening with
a little white, where a tint is required. Where the lines cross, a fine point
264 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
of yellow must be made, after the body of the berry is dry. This is put
on with the finest brush, a very little paint being taken up directly on the
point, and the brush held .almost perpendicularly in the hand. The calyx of
the berry is made in two shades of green, lightening with a little yellow, to
suit the fabric used.
Geranium Spray.
Geraniums are exquisite painted on black, brown or white satin. In
stamping patterns, there are small, medium and large sprays, so that one
can adapt them to a variety of uses. We will suppose the pattern to be
nicely stamped on the goods, and the goods neatly, firmly fastened to your
painting board. As before stated, soft brushes are best suited to this class
of work, and Nos. 2, 4 and 6 are good sizes.
There are a great variety of geraniums, but we will select one of the
zonal species for this lesson. Its blossoms are pink and its leaves have
zones of reddish-brown, separated from the edge by a very narrow border
of green. The paints needed are zinc white, pink madder, lemon yellow,
chrome green and brown madder.
Begin by laying out on your palette about a thimbleful of zinc white.
Add to this five or six drops of the poppy drying oil. Now paint the en-
tire design white, this being, of course, a mere body color. On satin of any
shade, except white, it is best to give the design the body color. When
the white is dry the natural shades are then laid on. For the leaves mix
equal parts of chrome and emerald green, adding just a touch of lemon
yellow. Paint the entire leaf with this color. When dry add the "zone" of
pure brown madder. Do the veining with your finest brush, after all the
rest is entirely dry.
A natural zonal geranium leaf aids one in attaining the best coloring.
For the blossoms use pink madder, lightened with white, laying on the
color in smooth, even strokes, and being careful not to go beyond the out-
lines. The stamen in the center of each geranium may be represented by
a small dot of yellow, made with the finest brush.
If you wish to paint scarlet geranium blossoms, use scarlet-lake, to
which a small touch of carmine has been added.
An excellent siccative, made of equal parts of balsam of fur and tur-
pentine, is used for varnishing work done on satin. It must only be applied
BRUSH AND PALETTE. 26s
when the paint is dry, and then very lightly. Work treated in this way is
very durable.
Butterflies.
For velvet painting the fine bristle brushes are used with good effect,
but red sable brushes " clipped " are superior. To clip them, take a pair of
small, sharp scissors, cut them off on each side and a little at the point.
They must be rounded and firm to the touch, and at the same time have a
good point. Three sizes of these brushes are necessary to do a variety of
work on velvet. Cutting them lessens the size; therefore it is advisable to
begin with medium sizes.
The colors for a design of grapes will be cobalt blue, mauve lake,
chrome green, terra vert, brown madder and silver white. Turpentine may
be used for thinning the paints. Paint the stems and veins of the
leaves with pure brown madder, then paint the grapes. To mauve lake add
only a touch of white and two or three drops of turpentine.
Lay on the colors smoothly, and do not go beyond the outlines; shade
a little (using another brush) with pure cobalt blue. For another shade
mix equal parts of mauve lake and cobalt blue. Paint the leaves with
chrome green, to which a little yellow has been added, and when this is dry
retouch them with terra vert, to which a chrome green has been
little
added. Do not work your color in on the veining if you can help it. When
the body of the leaves is dry go over the veins again with brown madder,
to which a little yellow has been added. / On velvet the grapes look well
266 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
done in silver bronzing and the leaves in gold. Gold and silver paint may
be purchased of all dealers in artists' supplies. A mixing liquid and direc-
tions for using accompanies it. Gold and silver bronzing are effective for
painting borders to portieres, table scarfs, and piano covers.
Pansies.
ft
Pansies are exquisitely dainty and lovely on bolting cloth, with satin
under the bolting. They are also stylish painted in oil on the crown of an
evening bonnet, with the ends of the strings painted to match.
The colors needed for this lesson in pansies are brown madder, pink
madder, silver white, lemon yellow, mauve lake, blacklead, chrome green,
and terra vert, the latter being a very dark shade of green. Some natural
pansies or a good pansy study will be of great assistance in painting, as
these blossoms admit of more variety of shades than any other flower.
To lemon yellow add a very little white and three drops of drying oil;
with this shade paint one or two of the pansies, varying the color a little
around the edges with brown madder; or only the lower half of the petals
on each pansy may be painted with the light yellow. For some of the
others mix mauve lake and pink madder, using one-third madder to two-
thirds of mauve lake. This makes a handsome purple; to brighten theshade
add a little white, and to darken it add brown madder. The fine lines and
markings are made with a very fine brush, using black lead. Put this on
after the first color applied to the petals has dried. If there are any buds,
paint them to correspond with the blossoms. Paint the leaves in two
shades of green, making them a little lighter on one side. To vein them,
add a little yellow to the chrome green; do your veining with your finest
brush. If any sprigs of ferny appearances are visible, paint with light
green. Paint the little oval in the center of each pansy with lemon yellow,
to which just a touch of brown madder has been added. When this is dry
draw a fine line of pink madder around it. The same rule would apply it
Purple Thistles.
To paint the purple thistle in oil colors use permanent blue, madder
lake, white, raw umber, and a little ivory black for the purple blossoms.
In the shadows add to these colors burnt sienna, and use less white. Put
BRUSH AND PALETTE. 267
in the high lights last, using permanent blue, madder lake, white, and a
very little ivory black. Do not blend these lights, but paint them while the
surrounding tone is fresh. The leaves, stems and calyx, which are rather a
light, silvery gray green, are painted with permanent blue, white, cadmium,
maddar lake, and ivory black. In the shadows add burnt sienna and raw
umber; use less cadmium and white.
Pond Lilies.
To paint pond lilies in oil colors, first paint in the white blossoms in
one general tone of light, warm gray. Afterwards put in the deep accent
of shadow, and add the high lights with crisp touches; do not blend. Paint
the general tone with white, yellow ochre, a little ivory black, cobalt and
light red. In the shadows substitute burnt sienna for light red, and use
less white and yellow ochre. The high lights are painted with white, a
little yellow ochre and a little ivory black. The green leaves, which are
gray and rather dark in quality, are painted with permanent blue, with a
little cadmium, madder lake and ivory black. Use the same colors in the
shadows, adding a little raw umber and burnt sienna. Paint under side of
leaves with yellow ochre, white, cobalt, a little ivory black, and light red.
Purple Clematis.
Colors: Permanent madder lake, and ivory black for the
blue, white,
and ivory black. Shadows of leaves, substitute burnt sienna for the ver-
milion, add raw umber, and use less less cadmium and white.
Oxhart Cherries.
To Paint White Oxhart Cherries: Lay in a general tone. Mass the
lights and shades very simply. Put in the high lights with crisp touches,
and add the deeper accents of dark in the shadows. For the local tone use
white, yellow ochre, a little vermilion, and a very small amount of ivory
black. For shadows use white, raw umber, yellow ochre, a little ivory
268 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
black, and madder lake. Paint the high lights with white, yellow ochre,
a very little madder lake, and the smallest possible quantity of ivory black.
There will probably be soft gray half parts. Use for these white, yellow
ochre, ivory black, cobalt and light red. In the deeper accents of the dark
use burnt sienna with the other colors. If there is a faint tinge of red on
one side of the cherry, add some madder lake to the other colors. To
paint the black Oxhart cherries, use for the local tone madder lake, ivory
black, a little cobalt, burnt sienna, and a very little white. The high light
is made in white, yellow ochre, a little madder lake, and a very little ivory
black. There is a gray surface light, which must be carefully observed, add
more white and cobalt to the other colors in painting this.
and yellow in autumn, use for the local green parts Antwerp blue, white,
cadmium, vermilion, and ivory black. The shadows are painted with the
same colors, but burnt sienna is substituted for vermilion, and raw umber is
added. Less white and cadmium is needed. The red tones are painted
with vermilion, madder lake, light red, white, a little ivory black, and raw
umber. In the deeper tones add burnt sienna, and in the cool gray
half tints use white, ivory black, a little cobalt, light red, and yellow ochre.
The yellow tones are painted with light cadmium, yellow ochre, white, and
a little ivory black for the lightest tints. In the deeper yellows add a little
madder lake or light red, and substitute a darker cadmium for the light
shade. In the shadows add raw umber and burnt sienna to the same colors,
omitting yellow ochre. To paint the dark purple berries use madder lake,
permanent blue, ivory black, white, and yellow ochre for the local tone.
In the shadows use the same color, but add burnt sienna and raw umber.
The reddish-brown stems are painted with burnt sienna, permanent blue,
Peacocks.
The oil colors used in painting a peacock are as follows: The deep,
rich, irridescent blue tones in the center of the eye are painted with Antwerp
blue, a little madder lake, and ivory black. The bronze tones are painted
with raw umber, yellow ochre, burnt sienna, a little ivory black, and as
M
BRUSH AND PALETTE. 269
much white as may be needed. For the brilliant emerald greens use
Antwerp blue, white, light cadmium, a little vermilion, and a little black.
The delicate purple tints are painted with permanent blue, white, madder
lake, a little yellow ochre, and a very little ivory black. In the shadows
add raw umber and burnt sienna. The beautiful irridescent color on the
breast, which is partly blue and green, is painted with Antwerp blue, white,
a little light cadmium, a little madder lake, ivory black, and burnt sienna.
For the beady, black eye use ivory black
Golden Rod and Asters.
Set the palette with white, chrome or king's yellow, cadmium, cobalt,
Prussian blue, Indian red, burnt sienna, mauve, castle earth, and black.
Use a background, 15x24 — larger or smaller, only keeping that propor-
tion. If you do not draw, stamp the design with powder. There are many
pretty perforated patterns to be had for 15 to 25 cents. With a large
bristle brush paint the background, using cobalt and white for a bit of sky
effect near the top of the right side of the canvas, and surround it with
white and light g»'ay clouds, making some darker towards the left upper
corner. For gray use white, black, a little cobalt, Indian red, and yellow
ochre.
Mix the colors carefully, and do not work the strokes of the brush
together very much, as the broken effect is much more desirable. Paint
the background entirely first, using castle earth toward the lower edge of
the canvas to darken it; also, draw in some grasses before it is dry, in pale^
yellowish green or gray, using brighter green for the nearer bits of grass or
leaves.
Paint stems of light green, shaded with castle earth and burnt sienna.
Use chrome yellow and black for most of the leaves, using white or a little
cobalt where they are lighter. Use a small, flat bristle, No. 3, for painting
leaves, drawing the stroke out from the stem.
Paint in the golden rod flower with an undertone of cadmium, using
a small bristle brush, well loaded with the color, or else use a comer of the
flat brush, and touch the color, not put it on with a stroke. Finish with
chrome yellow for highlights, and where the flowers are full bloom, add a
few touches of burnt sienna for shadows, taking care to mix the colors as
little as possible.
270 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
For asters, use mauve and white, putting each petal on with one stroke
of the brush. A red sable, about No. 2, is most convenient for this part of
the work. The center of the flower has the lower part, or shadows, in burnt
sienna, and chrome yellow above. Leave the background to dry before
attempting the flowers, if you feel that you can succeed better by doing so.
prefer it, using permanent blue, white, and a little black; cloud of blue,
Venetian red, yellow ochre, and most of all white. Soften edges of clouds
and blue carefully together; or, the background may be painted with a pale
shade of green.
Below center of panel darken gradually towards left-hand corner, if
your study is painted with the light striking from the right side.
After background is finished for the first painting, begin at highest
buds and paint down buds and stems, carefully putting in the bright colors
in buds before laying in green leaves. For pink flowers and buds use rose
madder with white, using sugar of lead as a drier —a very little with each
brushful of color. Use flat, soft brush on flower leaves, pressing the color
firmly down at outer edge and drawing brush towards the center for large
petals. For dark red flowers use crimson lake; shadows, mauve or purple
lake; under side of leaves, crimson lake and white. For center of stamens
use burnt sienna, yellow ochre and chrome yellow.
Paint leaves in with Prussian blue and chrome yellow, or chrome yellow
and black, using blue in shadows. Paint stems a little lighter, using white
with other colors.
After it is dry use castle earth to scrumble the background on lower
half of panel.
BRUSH AND PALETTE. 271
Washable Painting
on linen, bolting silk, scrim and muslin; very beautiful effects are also ob-
tained by painting in oil on wash fabrics. Curtains, pillow shams, toilet sets,
and stand covers can be decorated manner at very little expense. The
in this
painting is done as directed for oil painting, and the same colors are used,
with the addition of the Foster medium, which renders the colors almost
liquid and allows them to be absorbed into the fibers of the cloth. Only
flat floral effects, without perspective, should be attempted for this pur-
pose.
To use the Medium.
Pour a thimbleful of medium to use from, as it must be used but at the one
sitting; dip brush in medium, then in color on palette, working a little.
Repeat same if necessary until color is thin; then tap brush on blotting
paper until the paint will not spread, or until you can make a hair line.
with a light hand, and, as a general rule, make quick, short strokes. Care
should be taken to dip brush in medium often, and judgment used not to
get too thin — /. e., without body of color, as colors shade lighter on fabric.
Always put the dark shade lines in first. The colors, by use of the medium,
act as a dye, and fill the fibres of fabric; therefore go over work but once.
What is put on in excess of first coat — or more color than cloth will absorb
— will wash off. If color does not seem to penetrate cloth so as to show
well on wrong side of work, dip clean brush in medium, tap on blotting
paper, and carefully go over work on wrong side just as if you were paint-
ing; or if you wish to blend colors, follow same directions as on right side.
Let painting dry thoroughly — thirty to forty days — before washing;
then if the work fades it is because enough medium was not used while
working. In painting from nature or a study, in most cases, any defect
can be remedied by painting over. With this process this is impossible.
Therefore, as an easy, quick way of doing, we suggest the sketching or
Washing Make — a warm suds, wash the article, rinse and hang up;
when nearly dry iron. Do not rub soap o?i painting direct. In short, take
the same care you would with a delicate handkerchief.
Water Color Painting.
This method of painting is easily learned, and can be applied to many
ornamental objects. Squares, scarfs, etc., of bolting silk, linen lawn, and
China silk, tinted delicately with a wash of water colors, make desirable
backgrounds for embroidery in outline, while drawing paper, leather,
ivorine, and eggshell board, made into calendars, letter covers, telegram
holders, photo frames, etc., and decorated with designs in water colors,
are within the reach of all who are willing to bring to the work patience
and application.
The materials necessary are brushes, from No. i to No. 6, china palette,
having cups in which to mix the colors, a list of colors as follows:
"The pigments, which you will find most useful, are comprised in the
the painting is being done on cardboard or drawing board, the card must
be wet in all the parts intended to be colored. This is done by passing a
wide, flat brush, moderately full of water, gently over it; boiled water is
best for this purpose. When the card is thoroughly dry, each flower and
its foliage should be washed over with a tint, matching as closely as possi-
ble the lighter tones of its own local color. This wash should be begun at
the upper left-hand side, proceeding quickly to the right and downward.
BRUSH AND PALETTE. 273
first, but if attention is paid to keeping the brush equally full of color until
afresh, the consequence of which is that the new supoly of color flows back
into the former, leaving, when dry, a distinct mark, which it is impossible
to obliterate without sponging the whole entirely out with clean water.
ing over the edges while wet a clean brush rather dryer than that with
still
which they have been painted. The local color may then be deepened
where necessary, and the darker shadows may be worked upon until they
are of the proper depth, and finished by small touches wherever great
nicety is required. Some artists endeavor to finish their work entirely with
soft washes, whilst others execute them with large or small touches, called
stippling, but a middle course between these extremes will give a result
the transparency of the petals, that very little gray will be perceived in them.
A very small proportion of cobalt and Indian yellow must, therefore, be
mixed with the madder with which they are painted, and for the dark ones
carmine alone may be used. For dark roses, crimson lake will be found
the best color, instead of pink madder or carmine.
Yellow roses should be painted in the same way, with either lemon
yellow or chrome No. i, for the local color, the darker shades of yellow
being finished with gamboge. The shadows can be painted with the same
gray recommended for other flowers.
White Flowers.
In painting white flowers it is totally impossible to produce the brilliant
the purest white pigments, are only of the same degree of whiteness as the
flower in its half shade. If, therefore, either of these is used for the pre-
vailing tone, which it most resembles, there will be no means left to repre-
sent or even to attempt to imitate the high lights. The whole flower,
over the flesh, using the large brush charged with just enough color to cover
the space at once.
"The first wash being dry, take a little rose madder and extract of ver-
milion, and with a few tenderly applied touches, or washes, put the color in
the cheeks and lips; then, but with extreme delicacy and faintness, increase
the depth very gradually and softly —touching upon the chin, the nostril,
the upper eyelid, just over the eyebrows, the tips of the ears and fingers,
knuckles, etc., with the same tint, rendering the effect more or less percep-
tible, according to the complexion desired.
" Mix a little raw sienna and cobalt (substitute lemon yellow or yellow
ochre for raw sienna, if the study is a dark one) and with the same
delicate touches go over the outer portions of the shadows and retiring
surfaces of the face, over the entire sockets of the eyes, the lower jaw, and
the lines where the hair and flesh combine, making the blue a little more
perceptible when touching the temples, the lower lid of the eye, between
the eye and nose, etc., where the skin is thin and the veins perceptible.
" Upon the darker shades a little vermilion and raw sienna may now be
touched, and upon the darkest a little pure vermilion used thin and faint.
BRUSH AND PALETTE. 277
"With a little rose madder and cobalt the retiring portion of the cheek
and chin, the lower portion of the socket and upper lid of the eye, may be
carefully and tenderly touched.
"A little indigo and raw sienna may be next used, with the same deli-
cate care and faint, fairy-like scarcely perceptible touches upon the edges
of the deeper shadows, and where the hair and flesh meet, blending and
softening with patient skill one into the other.
" Here and there the color in the cheeks and lips requires strengthen-
ing. For this use a little crimson lake, or crimson lake and vermilion, or
the extract of madder carmine, as your thoughtful consultation of the
model may decide.
" Put in the« pupils of the eye with indigo; outline the iris with either
the same color or sepia, according to its color, stronger or fainter, as your
subject may indicate. If the eye is blue, use cobalt, or cobalt and
indigo, as may be required; if gray, use a little indigo and burnt sienna,
or neutral tint; if brown, umber, burnt or raw, as may be most desirable, or
stage of your progress, and a little sepia to strengthen the outer lines of the
upper eyelids.
Very artistic figures can be had in perforated designs. "Aurora, cupid,
cherubs — arranged in designs for wall panels, fans, easel pieces, etc.
Fabric Tinting.
The article to be tinted is first tacked to the drawing board, being care-
ful to stretch it smoothly and firmly. Sponge the surface of the fabric with
water until it is evenly wet all over; then, commencing at the upper portion,
apply the tint with a large, flat brush, which has been heavily charged with
color. This part of the work must be done rapidly, and the brush must be
refilled before the first charge is exhausted, in order to secure an even, uni-
form tint over all the surface. Always begin at the top and work downward.
A variety of effects are obtained by deepening the tint on the edges or
in the center. This is done by going over the work several times with a
stronger wash of the color desired. After the pieces are tinted they are
allowed to partially dry, and are then pressed between two pieces of thick
white flannel.
They are now ready for receiving the design) which should be stamped
on the tinted background with the black liquid stamping fluid, as this makes
the finest and, at the same time, most legible line; see chapter on " Design-
ing." The designs for this purpose should be light and of a most fairy-like
daintmess —a blackberry bramble or a wild rose and bud, a flight of butter-
happens to be too deep it will not be possible to remedy the defect. These
BRUSH AND PALETTE. 279
tinted novelties find ready sale, and when tlie work is nicely done, and
stamped with artistic designs, and done up in assorted lots of one dozen
each, the wholesale houses become eager purchasers at fair prices.
One lady known to the writer has added materially to her income by
this means. She knew nothing about painting, but one day being engaged
in dyeing some white cotton cloth for carpet rags, she observed that differ-
ent tints were obtained with the same color by adding water. Naturally of
an inventive and ingenious disposition, she began to experiment, and from
the crudest possible first results, she has succeeded in producing some of
the most beautiful tinted articles ever put on the market, and her custom-
ers may be found in almost every state.
easily obtained by the use of the Paris tints, described below, or the water
color paints may be substituted with as good effect if the artist has them at
hand. The water colors are in the end the cheapest, as they can be used
for a greater range of work than the Paris tints, which are useful only on
fabrics, while the water colors can be used on fabrics, celluloid, wood, etc.,
and offer a greater range of tints, shades and colors. Many teachers insist
upon pupils using the Paris tints for fabric and water colors for other back-
grounds. The reason is obvious, as the use of the two entails an extra
lesson or lessons and an extra outfit, which the teacher usually supplies the
pupils for a " discount."
Paris Tinting.
The designs most effective in this work are flowers that do not require
minute shading to bring out their beauty. Pansies, fleur ^e lis, wild roses,
Paris Tints— Put up in outfits of twelve bottles each. There are two
sets, viz., A and B.
Set "A" contains the following shades:
Orange, dark red, bronze, blue, black, violet, lemon, scarlet, peacock,
Bismarck, dark green, and mordant.
28o DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
Use the mordant to lighten the color of any shade.
Set "B" contains the following shades:
Yellow, old red, olive, navy, drab, seal, flesh, pink, yellow green, purple,
magenta, and mordant.
Use the mordant to lighten the shade of any color.
The above sets, with two brushes and two saucers, are sold in the
To use these tints, first stamp the design, moisten a fine sable brush
with the color desired, and go over the space a number of times. Do not
charge the brush too full of color, as it will then run over the outline and
spoil the material.
The material to be painted should be placed on the drawing board or
table over a piece of blotting paper. Plenty of soft, clean rags should be
at hand to wipe brushes on. Be careful not to dip the brush from one bot-
tle of paint into another without first cleaning, as this will ruin the tints.
The same effects can be obtained with the common Diamond dyes, sold
in the drug stores at lO cents a package. To paint light tints of a color,
dilute with water, and apply in the same manner as the Paris tints.
water color painting it is well to go over the surface with a piece of fine
emery paper. This will give what artists call a " tooth " to the material.
The celluloid should be cut the desired shape and size, and tacked firmly
to the drawing board, as otherwise the edges would curl. The design can
be stamped upon the material, and the outlines gone over with a fine-
pointed sable brush with white paint. This will be necessary, as the pow-
der will not adhere to the smooth surface of the celluloid.
To paint with water colors on any highly polished surface, as celluloid,
ivorine or glassine, first wash it over with a strong solution of borax water.
Celluloid and ivorine are both inexpensive, and many beautiful articles
pelled to depend upon a stamping pattern for the design, a special pattern
should be made to order, as ..lOse usually sold are intended for needlework
only, and show each portion of flower in detail. While for brush work-
masked effects are necessary, and if a little detail and perspective be in the
pattern, all the better, as a fence, through which a distant bit of foliage can be
seen.
Begin the first painting by laying in the general masses, and do not
attempt to paint the blossoms in detail at this time; that should be reserved
for the finishing. For the second painting begin with the blossoms, and
finish each part, if possible, while the paint is wet. For the purest white of
the white lilacs use zinc white, softened with a little yellow ochre, light
cadmium, madder lake and cobalt blue. For the shadows the same colors
with ivory black and raw sienna. For the clearest purple mix a tone of
zinc white, cobalt blue and madder lake, which should be modified with
yellow ochre and ivory black. A little vermilion will be found useful in the
darker blossoms. For the pale green leaves use zinc white, yellow ochre,
light cadmium, and raw sienna. For the darker greens add some burnt
sienna, deep cadmium, Antwerp blue and ivory black. The distant greens
seen through and beyond the fence, are painted with the same colors, the
grayer tones being made by using more of the yellow ochre, cobalt blue
and ivory black. If a sky background is to be desired, the principal color
needed be zinc white, light cadmium, yellow ochre, cobalt blue and ver-
will
milion, some madder lake and ivory black will be found useful for the dark
warm For the fence use Vandyke brown, yellow ochre, raw sienna,
purple.
ivory black and zinc white. Any parts which cannot be finished at the sec-
ond painting should be allowed to dry for several days and then have a
little linseed oil rubbed over them before proceeding again with the work
It will be best to avoid turpentine for these final touches.
A deep cream or pale ecru will be most suitable for the small
and delicate forms of the lilacs. Moisten the celluloid with borax water
and then start with the fence, using Vandyke brown, lamp-black, yellow
ochre and cobalt blue. Next paint the leaves which come in contact with
it, using cobalt blue, light cadimum, raw sienna, Indian yellow, burnt
sienna, indigo and yellow ochre. All the greens used can be made
282 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
with this palette by varying the mixture. To paint the leaves outline each
one with the green paint and then fill in quickly before the outline dries
and leaves a hard line. A full brush should be used. In painting the lilacs
pass a delicate wash of cobalt blue and rose madder, modified with yellow
ochre and lampblack. Tint the wash, paint the shadows, using the same
colors intensified, and adding vermilion and brown madder. Keep the
portion of the study you are working at wet, or the outlines will look hard,
and be careful to observe the roundness of the bunch. If the bunch shows
white and purple flowers, the background should be toned with lampblack
and yellow ochre, for the white bunches, of which a very delicate wash
should be made. For the shadows use the same colors, adding cobalt
blue and light red.
Lustra Painting.
powder. They can be had, put up in bottles, at the art stores, or in ounce
packages, which latter is somewhat less expensive than the former method.
The colors or powder are of two kinds — brocades and flitters. The brocades
are a fine, impalpable powder of irridescent hues: the flitters are brilliant
flakes of the same colors as the brocades. The colors are as follows:
Brocade Powders — Antique green, brown, copper, crimson, gold bro-
cade, green gold, lemon, light green, orange, rich gold, scarlet, silver,
is not at hand small butter dishes will do nicely. Two flat bristle or sable
brushes, Nos. 5 and 11, will be found most suitable for ihis work.
The them with the general medium. Use
colors are liquified by mixing
the china palette or saucer for this purpose (for pale pink, madder pink and
carmine, the special medium must be used for mixing). The paints must
be applied with the flat of the brush as much as possible. Keep the edges
clear cut by taking fresh color in the brush frequently. Take long, firm
strokes, laying the color on the surface only.
In painting on plush the colors should be mixed with the medium until
about the consistency of syrup. Select a plush with short, close pile, and
paint with the pile. In painting silk, satin and linen, the colors must be
mixed thinner and but little color taken in the brush at a time. Care must
be taken that the color is not too thin with medium, or it will spread beyond
the drawing.
These colors are very brilliant and will last as long as the foundation to
which they are applied.
In the list of colors are given all that are in the market, but it is very
seldom that one will require more than a dozen different colors for a large
and varied amount of work. Good taste demands that the brocades should
be used sparingly on textiles. They are more suitable for decorating pot-
tery, wooden articles, etc., though for white flowers and brilliant foliage
they can be made very effective and beautiful. The best artists, however,
incline to the duller, more sombre tones.
White flowers should be painted all over first with silver, using more
paint where a high light will be than in the shadows; afterward glaze the
high light with a mixture of one-third silver and two-thirds sparkling
silver, and glaze the deepest shadows with steel.
For yellow flowers use rich or pale gold, for the high lights, fire for the
deepest shadows, blend with a middle tone of lemon or orange, to suit taste.
In attempting any new kind of work, without personal instruction, the
student must be prepared to do a little experimenting, to exercise consid-
erable patience, and bring to the task all the common sense she can muster.
There are ever pitfalls for the feet of the unwary, and many a puzzling
point will come up for settlement in the work of each individual student,
which cannot be anticipated in a work of this character, but with the pa-
19
284 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
tience to follow the instructions that have been given, point by point, and
item by item, there is no excuse for not obtaining satisfactory results.
Kensington Painting.
The painting can be done on plush, velvet, satin, felt and any smooth
surface cloth, with oil paint, the same list of colors given for painting on
" fabrics," answering for this style of work also.
the work, though where a broad surface is to be gone over, the paint may
be applied with a brush, and afterward worked up with the pen.
Squeeze out on the palette, or a common plate, a little of each of the
colors to be used; if it is necessary to mix any of the- colors to get any de-
sired shade, it should be done with the palette knife. To do the painting
hold the pen bottom up; take the paint up in the hollow of the pen, shovel
fashion; wipe the paint from the back of the pen with a piece of old cotton
cloth, kept for the purpose. Then draw the point of the pen, with the back
toward the material, over the outline, turning the pen slightly as you draw
it, in order to make the outline clear and sharp. Next fill the pen and
apply the paint to cover the inside of the petal or leaf, drawing the pen
toward the center, as the stitches are taken in embroidery. Apply the
several shades used in this manner, blending them together with the pen.
After this scratch the leaf over with the point of the pen to give it the ap-
pearance of stitches, remembering to make the lines run towards the center,
as in embroidery. If you wish to make the work finer, a needle can be
used to do this part of the work.
In painting petals or leaves, begin from the outer edge and paint to-
;RUSH
\^
and palette. 285
ward the center. Lay on the principal colors first, afterwards the darker
shades and high lights, blending with the pen.
For such flowers as golden rod, coxcomb, sumac, and for the pollen or
anthers of other flowers, the paint is best applied by dabbing it on with the
end of the brush. The knack will be caught with very little practice, and
then no further trouble will be met with.
The "feather stroke" is made by taking the paint up in the
hollow of the pen, and from the outer edge of outline of design make a
clear stroke to the center, twisting the pen in the fingers in order to make
the paint stand out roundly from the material. Place another stroke beside
the first in the same manner, but do not attempt any other blending
of colors.
Use turpentine or poppy oil to thin the paint with when necessary,
also to act as a dryer.
A large parrot is a good design for fire screens or wall banner, and
small ones form an effective decoration for the blocks of a fancy quilt,
cushion or wall pocket. A moderately coarse pen and the following paints
will be needed: Silver white, Vandyke brown, chrome yellow, Chinese
vermilion, chrome and emerald green, Prussian and cobalt blue.
send it to any first-class photographer with orders for a solar print, being
careful to state the size you wish the picture enlarged to. A solar print is
The solar print secured, the following instructions for treatment will
be found to yield satisfactory results. It is from the methods of one of the
most successful portrait painters, and we submit it to our readers, feeling
certain that it will be of far greater value than a half-dozen lessons from an
inferior teacher. Practice, patience, perseverance, observation, are watch-
words that should ever be borne in mind. Without them it were better not
to attempt portrait painting.
" First, as to materials required. For finishing in monochrome or black
and white, finely powdered pumice powder will be required to give a tooth
to the paper. Some paper stomps of various sizes, with at least six stip-
pling stomps, a stick of crayon sauce, and Conte crayons, Nos. i, 2 and 3.
" Have the print mounted upon good stout cardboard and well rolled
—not buniished. Pin it to a smooth drawing-board, and sprinkle lightly with
the pumice powder. With a circular motiort rub the surface of the print
all over, till there is an even tooth over the surface of the print. Take a
little crayon sauce and mix some of the pumice powder with it, in propor-
tion of one of pumice powder to two of crayon sauce. Put this upon a
piece of cardboard, to forma palette, and rub the tips of two fingers into it,
BRUSH AKD PALETTE. 2%1
and rub on the print,upon the background, over the shoulders. Never mind
its going into the drapery or face; it can be removed. With vignette pot-
traits a light, cloudy effect over each shoulder is best, making it a trifle
darker where it approaches the lighted side of face, and lighter on the
shaded side, to give contrast. Make it darker than you intend it to remain
of the pumice powder all over the picture, and lightly rub all over. This
loosens the crayon and gives softness and Take the Conte crayon
distance.
No. 3 and go over the deeper shades of the drapery, marking them in very
strongly; then soften them with the fingers,
graduating them where it may be wanted.
"Next take the Conte crayon No. i, cut it to
FIG. 274. around the chin and upon the neck, under the
chin and under the eyebrows, and down the shadow side of the nose and
forehead, and any other shadow which needs strengthening, softening
and graduating where necessary.
"Now pause and go back over the whole work. You will see that,
startingwith a strongly printed solar print, the whole work has been
nothing more than deepening the photographic shadows and graduating
them into the lights. If this has been done carefully there will be no loss
in resemblance, and the picture has gained vastly in strength.
It is now time to add finish, and that is done by filling up with the
point of an H H lead pencil any breaks in the graduation of the shadows,
and in taking out the highlights. This part is done by making a fine point
288 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
with the emery cloth, and working out any spots with a light circular rub-
bing touch. As you go on with the finish you will find, perhaps, that your
shadows want deepening. This can be done best with the stomp and
crayon sauce for broad effects, and the No. 2 Conte crayon for decisive
touches.
" For taking out highlights a piece of hard ink-eraser will be wanted,
mounted in a porte crayon, and cut to a flat point. The lights to be taken
out are upon the forehead, down the nose, upon the cheek bone, and upon
the chin. Clean off with the ink-eraser white drapery or white collar, and
with a fine point take out the highlight on the eyes. Sometimes on light
hair a few judicious touches with the ink-eraser upon the highest lights
will effect a great improvement.
For the finishing touches go carefully over the face, filling up any
breaches in the graduations, deepening, if necessary, with a stippling stomp
and crayon sauce, the upper lip. Shape the lower one with the point of the
stomp, and deepen the shadow under it. Round the lower part of the chin,
and put a little delicate shadow on the light side of the forehead and the
shadow which is upon the cheek from the ear to the curve of the nostril.
Keep the ear back by keeping it in soft, delicate shadow. Go over the half-
shades of the hair with the same stomp and crayon sauce, and when all
these delicate half-tints have been attended to, finish by a few vigorous
touches with Conte crayon No. 3 upon the darkest shade of the drapery, the
pupils of the eyes, the deepest shadows of the hair, the shadows under the
eyebrows and down the nose, the nostrils and under the chin.
" This treatment is for vignettes of a half or three-fourths length.
all your touches be more and more undefined as they recede from it. All
the sharp, crisp touches should be upon or near the face."
There is no form of art work that yields better returns for time and
—
skill required thaii Crayon portrait painting. An expert artist easily paints
three to four full-length portraits in a week, and the average price ranges
from Sio to S25 per picture. The solar prints cost $i.SO to $2.00 each, so it
can be seen that it will repay the time spent in learning how to work with
the crayon. Again orders can be secured for portraits when all other paint-
ings are a drug on the market. We do not pretend to have exhausted the
subject, but merely to have pointed out the road to follow in order to reach
success.
Painting on Birch Bark.
The inner layers of birch bark offer a beautiful background for sepia
pulled from the tree, and it should be immediately pressed flat under
weights in order to prevent the edges from curling. As the bark from
young trees is the most desirable, it follows that the pieces secured are in
small sections, therefore the designs selected must be reduced to miniature,
which can be done by means of the pantagraph.
To paint: Place the bark on the drawing board, carefully secured at
the corners. Place the board in a slanting direction, and sponge the bark
over with clear water. This is done in order to make the bark take the
color.
Small landscapes are best suited for this background and should be
painted in regardless of small details. Cover the principal outline with
the sepia, carried in a No. 2 brush. A larger brush may be used for c'oud
effects, which should be put in with Chinese white for the light ones and
warm sepia for the dark ones; the natural bark will serve for the general
sky tint. If the shadows are too deep absorb the superfluous color by press-
ing over it a bit of blotting paper. Aside from landscapes, floral designs
very simple in arrangement — are exquisite painted on the bark. Follow
the directions given for water color painting. The decorated pieces of bark
59<3 DAINTY WORK. FOR PLEASURE AND PROFlt.
can be made up into numberless pretty trifles — as a cover for tablets, an
inlaid panel on a blotting pad cover, a telegram holder, or a pretty easel
picture can be made by placing the bark in the center of a square of ecru
rice board or leatherette. To mount
the bark slit the leatherette or board in
Scorch Painting.
This form of painting is enjoying a
revival of popularity and bids fair to
DETAIL A, Fia 275. ^^s name indicates, is done by burning detmL b, Fia 275.
the design on wood with a hot poker or platinum point.
Scorch painting offers teachers an almost unexcelled opportunity for
forming classes at profitable prices, as the work is fascinating in the doing,
beautiful and artistic when done, and easily learned. Aside from the profit
manipulation is very simple and easily learned. In addition to the " vul-
can," points of platinum, which come in a box of assorted sizes, and patterns,
will also be necessary. The entire outfit, consisting of the vulcan, assorted
BRUSH AND PALETTE. 291
platinum points and benzoline, can be procured for $5.00, and there the
expense for materials ends. Of course, the article to be decorated is not
included.
The woods best suited for scorch painting are holly, sycamore, lime and
even bass wood. This latter wood is cheaper than the others, and is best
adapted for practice work. Other wood may be used with good results, as
oak, ash, elm, chestnut, cedar and teak. Sycamore is by far the best for
figures, either natural or conventional; the detail should not be minute, but
lamp, but afterward it will not be necessary to repeat the operation, as the
bellows maintain and regulate the heat.
In teaching oneself or others the mode of scorch painting, it is excellent
practice to make strokes, oblique, straight, circular, etc., with the different
points, as they will show gradations of tone and will give ideas for treating
rounded surfaces and backgrounds. The strokes must be bold and firm.
The background may be either dark or light, but if light, then the design
must be dark, and vice versa.
Effective results are obtained by burning away the background deeply,
leaving the design in low relief.
can be used for so many architectural details, as paneling for dining room or
library, frieze for hall or library, while tops of tables, pianos, etc., can be
rendered beautiful by its employment.
The teacher who intends to undertake scorch painting for profit,
must be thoroughly prepared at all points. First, she must have become
proficient in the different strokes; the use of the different points, and the
20
292 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
manipulation of the vulcan, all of which can be learned without other aid
than here given, if perseverance and common sense be brought to bear upon
the subject. The learner's best aid first, last and all the time, is patient
practice, coupled with observation.
As will be seen, beautiful effects can be obtained by light and shade, in
the scorching, so that attention should be paid to this part of the work.
High lights and shadows should be sharply accented, otherwise the work
will present the appearance of flat lines, scorched on a flat surface.
Simple outline designs should be tried first, after the various strokes
painting obtains in scorch work, and should be applied, or else the work
will not have been brought to its best possible state of perfection, and half
its artistic beauty will be lost. In preparing for a class, the teacher should
see to the selecting of the practice wood; in fact, the better plan is to sup-
ply each pupil with a piece of clean wood for the purpose of practicing the
strokes, and another piece on which has been stamped a simple landscape
design — a road, a tree, a bit of fence answering admirably. Such patterns
are kept in stock by the best pattern houses. Do not supply pupils in the
same class with the same design, as the work will become too monotonous.
In addition to the two pieces of the wood the teacher should also supply
the outfit of tools for the work, where at all possible, as by this means all
the pupils will be uniformly accoutred for work, and there will be no hitch
or delay because some pupil has forgotten to supply herself with some part
of the outfit.
The usual price for a course of five lessons in scorch painting is $6.00,
and a teacher can do full justice to a class of six pupils at one sitting.
Tapestry Painting.
larger schemes of decorative work can be carried out by its use than by any
other form of painting within the reach of the masses. In this chapter no
exhaustive details can be gone into, but in the few pages devoted to the
subject sufficient instruction will be clearly given to enable one who has
had some experience with the brush in either oil or water colors to prosecute
BRUSH AND PALETTE. 293
the work successfully without other aid; while for the woman who has
never used the brush the hints here given will save many and much
dollars
time and, it may be, some discouraging failures in experimenting, either
alone or with the aid of the teacher. We advise personal instruction for
the novice to the extent of a few hours at least, yet the pupil should go as
far as possible alone, using the instructions here set down. In cases of rare
art talent further aid might not be needed.
Tapestry painting, as its name implies, is painting with specially pre-
pared dyes on wool or silk ribbed canvas, to imitate the old woven tapes-
tries. It is used for furniture covers, wall hangings and screen panels.
The designs are usually landscape, figure, or large floral, fine details
desired size to good bond paper first, after which the lines can be pricked
through with afine pointed needle, which will give a perforated pattern, by
means of which the design can be stamped on the canvas, using the powder
for this purpose.
There are various kinds of canvas sold for tapestry painting, but the
best will be found to be Binant wool canvas. This canvas can be had in
294 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
various widths and for various prices. The following table, from an art
Dyes.
The dyes used for tapestry painting are French dyes, but there are
different methods of preparing them, and this constitutes the difference in
their artistic values. M. T. Wynne advises the use of the Grenie dyes, and
having used them in our own work with uniform success we endorse the
opinion of our esteemed confrere.
The Grenie dyes are advertised as indelible, and so far as our expe-
rience goes we have found them to possess this quality. There are thirteen
colors, indicated by numbers, from one to thirteen inclusive, as follows:
indigo, ultramarine, rose, vermilion, cochineal, Indian yellow, burnt sienna,
brown, gray, violet, green, gray green, black.
296 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
The Grenie dyes are a little more expensive than others on the market,
but knowing that the best is ever the cheapest, in painting materials at
least, we do not mention others. The cochineal and indigo are sold, for jc
cents a bottle, while the other colors are only 20 cents. There is a medium
for mixing the colors that is indispensable; it is sold in pint bottles, and
costs 40 cents per bottle.
Brushes.
Next to the colors in importance is the question of brushes. It means
absolute failure to attempt tapestry painting with the ordinary brushes.
At least one dozen brushes, assorted sizes, from No. i to No. 12, made
especially for this purpose, should be procured. They are made of stiff
bristles, and cut in the shape of a chisel. For large surfaces a double var-
nish brush, cut down a little to stiffen it, is recommended by artists for
skies. Glass palettes should be procured, and also several glass jars for
mixing the colors; two or three of a larger size, for mixing large washes in.
When the painting is finished, Wynne strongly insists upon the neces-
sity of steaming the work, either at home, over a specially constructed
steamer, or failing in this method, advises sending the work to a regular
dying establishment. Doubtless this procedure would add to the indeli-
bility of the work, but in our experience we have found the following much
more simple and quite satisfactory:
BRUSH AND PALETTE. 297
Place the painting on the table, face up; wring out a thin woolen cloth
in cold water and place it smoothly over the work; over this again place a
dry cotton cloth, then with a hot iron go over the whole until the woolen
cloth is thoroughly dry. This method serves to subdue, soften and mellow
the dyes, taking away the crude and glaring effect that is sure to be felt by a
person of artistic susceptibilities, unless this subduing process is resorted to.
Flesh Colors.
As figures are largely used as subjects for tapestry painting, a few
ful not to touch the broad highlights. If the eyes are brown they may be
put in with burnt sienna, also. This part of the work is called modeling,
and after it is quite dry the local tone is washed over all the flesh, including
shadows, using again the burnt sienna, but so much diluted as to merely
tint the medium, which should be added to it without any water. For a
dark, sallow complexion, befitting an Othello or a Spanish knight, add a
touch of yellow to the sienna. In applying this local wash it should be
scrubbed into th^ canvas until every thread is thoroughly colored. The
shadows must be counteracted with green made of indigo and yellow.
298 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
Make two shades of the green of about the same relative strength as the
two shades of burnt sienna used for putting in the shadows. Before apply-
ing the green, tint the cheeks with rose. Do not allow the greens to run
beyond the shadow color.
If the red in drying works up too much, add more green; but if the
green is too strong, work in more burnt sienna.
The sharp markings must not be painted in until the previous washes
are nearly dry, or the color will spread.
When the first flesh painting is you must be sure about
perfectly dry, and
this, add a touch of rose for the lower lip, model the highlights by scraping
very gently with the rounded point of the knife or eraser. This gives the
picture artistic finish, and is effective, as the color still remains in the ribs
of the canvas, while the knife removes only that color lying on the surface,
giving a stippled effect. You are now ready for the second flesh wash.
Put on the glass palettes the four colors previously given for flesh painting,
and apply. Make another tint by mixing green and red together. This
mixture will be needed only for touching up and delicate modeling. The
markings of eyes, ears, lips, nostrils and fingers must be strengthened.
The use of the knife between the shadows and highlights will produce the
pearly tints necessary for softening the flesh tones and blending massed
light and share.
In painting hair, lay in the color in broad masses of light and shade.
For golden hair, make a palette of a pale yellow and a very small amount
of rose. The shadow color is made by mixing yellow and brown and a
little rose with these colors. Any shade of hair, from light flaxen to golden
brown, can be made by simply varying the proportions of the same color.
While Hayward advises the use of brown, yellow and rose for the shadow
color, yet in our own work we frequently omit the rose, finding the yellow
and brown sufficient; but in case there is difficulty in getting just the satis-
factory proportions of each color, the addition of a very little rose will
often solve the difficulty, and give the exact shadow required. It will mod-
ify the greenish effect caused by too great preponderance of yellow in the
300 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
first mixture. For dark hair, mix the burnt sienna with the medium, and
much or little water, according to the shade required. If nearly black hair,
add a little indigo to the brown, and for the local wash add gray to the
brown.
For painting in draperies, we have followed the method laid down by
Wynne for beginners. It was the one first practised in our work, and hav-
ing always given satisfaction we see no reason to change it in our later
work: Model all the shadows before putting in the local tint. Put in the
darkest shadows first, then the next tone, leaving the delicate half-tones to
be added when the local wash is nearly dry. Lay the local tint over both
light and shade. This will complete the first painting. There remains only
to accentuate the shadows and scrape the highlights wherever needed, to
give brilliancy. There are no definite rules laid down to guide the artist in
regard to the coloring of draperies; the harmony of colors must, of course,
be considered, but we will say in this connection that all kinds of fabrics
may be reproduced in tapestry painting by simply giving attention to the
falling of lights, as all the difference lies in the fact of their being soft or
sharp. All the tapestry dyes can be mixed with each other, and the most
satisfactory method is to mix and mix, strengthen and weaken trying the —
colors on a bit of canvas — until the desired colors and tones are secured.
We will append here the result of a few experimental mixings.
Blue .—Y.oz'sX wash, indigo diluted until very pale. For shadows, indigo
blue, gray and a little orange. Make the orange with burnt sienna and
yellow.
Salmo?i Pi/ik. — (This is a color very effective for draperies, slashings,
etc.) For the local tone use rose diluted with medium and water until very
pale, to which a very little green has been added. For the shadows use
brown, to which has been added a little rose.
White. — For shadows, gray; the canvas will do duty for highlights.
Violet.— l^ocdA wash, rose and ultramarine; for shades and shadows,
indigo and cochineal, with a touch of burnt sienna in the shadows.
BRUSH AND PALETTE. 301
Yellow. —Use a mixture of brown and yellow for shadows; use pure yel-
low for local wash.
Heliotrope. — Ultramarine and rose, and burnt sienna for shades; for the
wash.
Sapphire Blue.— Indigo, rose and ultramarine.
Olive Green.— Burnt sienna, yellow and indigo.
Turquoise Blue. — Emeraude green and ultramarine much diluted for the
local wash; for the shadows add ultramarine and orange.
Ashes of Roses. — Local wash, rose diluted with water to a mere tint; for
To Paint a Sky.
DRAPED MANTEL.
BRUSH AND PALETTE. 303
otherwise it will dry with a spotted appearance. Carry this deepest shade
as far down as necessary, then dilute it a little and carry it a few inches
further down. With a clean brush wet the canvas a little below the hori-
zon line with medium and water. Some workers omit the medium for pur-
poses of economy, using the water only; but this is a policy that will not
In the chapter on " Dainty Work for Profit " the subject of decorative
painting is not touched upon for the reason that it more properly belongs
under the head of "Brush and Palette," and is of sufficient importance for a
This state of affairs probably arises from the fact that, as a rule, women
are better posted on needlework than on painting. The latter art is en-
shrouded with a good deal of mystery, from the fact that artists treat the
variety of ways in which left-over scraps of silk, linen, ribbon, etc., can be
worked up into saleable novelties with the least possible outlay of time and
money. The decorative painter need never be at a loss for fresh and at-
tractive window display, and her show case will be filled with small novel-
ties that find ready sale at good profit in their respective seasons. Classes
in decorative painting are always a powerful factor in drawing trade, and
fine your efforts to simple decorative painting, which will leave no room for
criticism.
The instructions given in this chapter are sufficient to give the dealer
or teacher full command of the best and easiest methods of doing the dif-
painting on celluloid.
In the present chapter will be found illustrations of several beautiful
novelties that will repay the dealer who will make them up and put them
on exhibition in show case or window.
The amount of painting supplies to be carried in stock will, of course*
depend entirely upon the extent and kind of trade each dealer has, but the
following are staples and will be needed by all. Other novelties can be
added from time to time, as the demand for this kind of work increases:
BRUSH AND PALETTE. 305
Water Colors — The moist colors that come in little pans will give
better satisfaction than those put up in cakes. The necessary colors for a
varied line of decorative work are as follows; Antwerp blue, burnt umber,
burnt sienna, Chinese white, chrome yellow, chrome orange, emerald green,
gamboge, ivory black, yellow ochre, terra vert, Vandyke brown, Venetian
red, vermilion, brown madder, carmine lake, crimson lake, scarlet lake,
DRAPED EASEL.
BRUSH AND PALETTIl. 30^^
pictures, a few plush frames, etc., decorated, will make a most attractive
display for little outlay of money. A very fair artist's supply or stock can
be put inforfrom$75 to $100, and can be made to yield a profit of nearly, if
not quite, 50 per cent, and this aside from money obtained from teaching,
and profits accruing from the ability to work off out-of-date fabrics for
needlework.
In addition to the above enu-
merated articles it will be a profit-
ones, and it is from the former class that the figure 278.
matters so much as a feeling that the lower form is within the compass of
their talents, while the greater work seems so far away and beyond their
grasp.
A variety in the painted samples and a frequent change is desirable.
3o8 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIt.
Tapestry painting is most attractive when well done, as also tinted
li*fe%.' ~^ -
CHAPTER XV.
ployed in this work. The designs of patterns given for handkerchiefs, cen-
ters, borders, ends, etc., may be transferred to thetracing cloth, enlarged to
any size desired, by means of the pantagraph, and form a very valuable feat-
ure of this chapter, as the perforated designs are quite expensive. The
enlargement of the designs in this chapter should be four times the size
here given, each way, for the best effect. There has been but little printed
on the subject of lace making in this country. Mme. Guyon, a French lady,
brought out a few years ago, a small pamphlet on the subject, and from its
pages nearly all the magazine articles on " Lace Making" have been
taken, in a form so incomplete and mutilated as to be of little practicable
value.
The instructions necessary for a beginner are simple, and must be exactly
followed. Deftness of manipulation can be acquired only by patient prac-
tice, and this practice must be gone through with, as exactness of detail is
PLATE 1,
LACE STITCHES AND DESIGNS. 311
Point lace and Honiton lace are made on a foundation design of braid
which is sewed to the outlines of patterns, and the spaces are then filled in
with the various lace stitches. In brief this is all of mystery of lace making
there is about the work, yet how much is covered by these brief words.
Materials for lace making are simple, and consist of tracing cloth, a
foundation of soft oil cloth, such as is used for table and shelf covers, or
leather will answer, but is more expensive, braids of various styles and sizes,
lace threads and designs.
Figures i, 2, 3, shows several of the braids used in this work. As will
be seen they are of varying sizes and styles and are designated by numbers.
Each manufacturer using a different number. The numbers given below
can be readily placed from the accompanying illustrations.
No. 4722, 420, 402, 347, 652, 145, 697, 4886, 52, 505, 503, 388, 287, III,
128, 564, 155, 319, 510,416, 344, 384, 367, 368, 414, 365. The prices for which
the best English braid can be secured ranges from 7 cents to 50 cents per
piece of six yards.
The thread for working the lace stitches should be of the best linen,
and is sold in balls. The threads are of different sizes, indicated by num-
bers, 300 to 1500. No. 300 indicating the coarsest thread used and No. 1500
the finest. These threads should not cost more than 5 cents per ball, as
that is the price usually charged by the large establishments carrying a
line of lace-making materials.
Tracing cloth is made 18 inches wide and may be purchased by the yard,
the usual price being 25 cents.
Designs: special designs for point and honiton lace may be had from
the stamping pattern houses. They are made on good strong tracing cloth,
which is all ready for tacking to the oil cloth foundation previously men-
tioned. The designs are the most expensive part of the outfit. A hand-
kerchief pattern costing 50 cents, a design for infants cap 35 cents, a collar
35 cents, a fischu 75 cents, a deep border $1.00, and so on. Therefore it
will be seen that where good lace designs can be copied from books or
magazines a considerable saving will be effected.
Laying the Braid.
Outlining the design with the lace braid is the most particular {)drt of
ihc work as upon the neatness with which it is done depends the entire
312 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
LACE STITCHES AND DESIGNS. 313
effect of the finished piece. When possible, piecing the braid should be
avoided; sometimes it is absolutely necessary, and great care must be ex-
ercised in this operation. To join: stitch the braid together firmly, open
the seam and turn back the edge,
stitch the edge down separately.
In passing the needle from one part
of the braid to another run along
the center of the braid, keeping the
stitches as nearly invisible as possi-
PLATE 3.
LACE STITCHES AND DESIGNS. 315
In order to make the inner edge lie even and smooth thread a No.
9 needle with No. 500 lace thread, fasten the needle at one point and take
a few running stitches aloiig the edge of the braid, as a fine gathering, and
draw the thread up slightly, this will force the braid into position. The
same method must be followed by laying braid on a curve or half circle
and two or three fastening off stitches should be taken. When each curve
or circle is finished the gathering thread 7nust remain on the work,
LACE STITCHES.
Having illustrated the method for laying the foundation of a design,
the next step in the work is naturally the stitches to be used for fiUing-in.
No large or important piece of lacework should be attempted until the
stitches have been thoroughly mastered by persistent practice on small
samples.
The stitches used in point lace are divided into four sections, as fol-
will be seen that much study and many copies of old point must be gone
through with to master all the beautiful varieties of stitches, and in a work
of this character all that can be successfully attempted is to instruct the
novice in the simpler methods, illustrating the principal stitches, and the
proper application of same. Sufficient knowledge may be obtained from
this chapter to enable any lady to manufacture beautiful specimens of old
point and hoaiton lace.
The finer the braid used in the work the more value will the finished
piece possess. And here comes in a liice point for discrimination, viz.:
where to use the coarser braids? It will be readily seen that lace for per-
sonal use needs to be of finer texture than that employed for purely decor-
ative purposes, hence for handkerchiefs, fichus, collars, lace edgings, etc,
the finer braids and most delicate and lacy stitches should be employed.
For bed spreads, shams, dressing case sets, etc., the heavier and coarser
braids will be found more effective as well as more appropriate. The finest
threads should be used with the finer braids always, while for ornamental
articles thread as coarse as No. 300 may be employed.
The fipBt stitch to be practiced in lace making is the Brussels point.
This stitch is the foundation of nearly all the many lace stitches, and is
21
3i6 Dainty work for pleasure and PROFit.
PLATE 4.
LACE STITCHES AND DESIGNS. 317
ly. Fig. 3, plate 2, shows the stitch worked in rows; Fig. 4, plate 2, the Ven-
ice point. This stitch is worked from left to right as is also the Brussels
point. Work one loose buttonhole stitch, and in this again work four but-
tonhole stitches tightly drawn up: next work another loose buttonhole
stitch, and four more buttonhole stitches in it as described for the first
stitch. This operation must be repeated to the end of the row and the
thread fastened off. This will be found to make a most useful filling stitch.
in the edge of the braid, keeping the thread to the right, bring out the
needle inside the loop, (see figure 6, plate 2.) The needle must
pass from the back of the loop through it. Pass the needle under the
stitch and bring it out in front, by this means twisting the thread twice.
This operation gives the stitch the desired cord-like appearance. The
thread must be fastened to the edge of the braid at the end of each row.
Return to the opposite edge without breaking the thread by sewing back,
inserting the needle once in every open stitch.
then one Brussels point stitch and repeat, alternating the stitches to the
end of the row. Work back in the same manner, only commence the sec-
ond row with the three close Spanish points instead of the loose Brussel
point. This is the first occasion, so far given, where two stitches are com-
bined to form a pattern, but these combinations are largely used in all pat-
terns, and lend variety to the work. We shall have more illustrations of
combinations further on.
Valenciennes stitch, figure 10, plate 2, is simple when understood though
at first may appear a little difficult. To work:
it ist row, commence at the
left hand and make six Brussels point stitches at equal distances, every al-
ternate stitch must be larger. Second row: upon the first large stitch work
nine close buttonhole stitches, follow with one short Brussels point stitch
under the one above; repeat nine close stitches and so on to the end of the
row, (right to left.) Third row, work five close buttonhole stitches in the
nine of the previous row, follow with one short Brussels point, two close
buttonhole stitches in the Brussels point, one short Brussels point, five
close buttonhole stitches, one short Brussels point, two close buttonhole
stitches, one short Brussels point, five close, one short, two close, one short,
repeat. Continue the rows in the order given until the desired space is
filled.
up tight and repeat. Second row: one straight thread from right to left.
Third row: work in same manner as described forfirst row, using the straight
thread in place of the braid, Pass the needle through the loop of previous
row.
Point de Reprise is a stitch much used and will be found illustrated
and described in the chapter on " Applica-
tions of stitches."
stitches.
This is one of the prettiest stitches used in lace work and is also one of the
320 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
most difficult. Work a number of diagonal bars in buttonhole stitch, on a
single thread, in one direction. Then in the opposite side begin in the
same manner and work five or six stitches past the spot where the two
lines cross each other. Pass the thread around the cross twice, under and
over the thread, to form a circle, work in buttonhole stitch half of one
quarter, make a dot by putting a fine
pin in the loop instead of drawing the
thread tight, and in the loop held open
by the pin, work three buttonhole
stitches; take the pin out and continue
as befor». The dot is the difficult
Figure 25 shows method of forming wheel, which is very simple; the thread
is worked over and under the crossed threads, repeating the operation un-
til awheel the desired size has been obtained; see plate 4 for figures 24 and 25.
LACE STITCHES AND DESIGNS. 321
working. Begin at the right and carry a thread straight across to the oppo-
site side; fasten off in the edge of the braid with a tight buttonhole stitch.
Upon this thread work a succession of tight buttonhole stitches. In every
third stitch work a Venice point stitch.
We come now to the dotted lace bars, and a very important feature of
bar is this dot.
Dotted Venice Point: Stretch the thread across the space to be filled
from right to left. Upon this thread work five tight Brussels point stitches.
In the fifth stitch insert a pin to hold it, open and loose; pass the needle
under the loose stitch and over, the thread as shown in figure 21. In this
loop work three tight Brussels point stitches; work five more tight Brussels
points on the thread and make another dot; repeat to end of row.
1*
322 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
Raleigh Bars are worked over a foundation of net work, made of coarse
thread, twisted in places so as to
more easily fall into the desired form.
Figure 25 shows a figured diagram for placing threads; and by following
the numbering from i to 21 in the diagram, a square space may be easily
filled. Portions of the arrangement can also be applied to any shaped
space. Upon the groundwork make tight Brussels point stitches, and upon
these the dot must be worked. To work the dot either of three methods
may be followed. First method: work five tight Brussels points, one loose
Brussels point; pass the needle under the loop and over the thread, as
shown dotted Venice bars; draw up, leaving a small open loop as
in the in
tatting. Work five tight Brussel points and repeat.
Second method of making dots: Proceed as described for first method,
but instead of continuing the tight Brussels point work two or three tight
buttonhole stitches in the loop thus formed.
Third method of making dots or picots: work four tight Brussels
points and one loose; through the loose stitch pass the needle point, wind
the thread three times around the point, press the thumb tightly on this,
and draw the needle and thread through the twists. This method very
closely imitates the real Spanish lace.
Figures 27 and 30 represent two very beautiful fancy filling stitches,
which are so simple that they can readily be copied from the illustrations.
Figure 27 is called Point d'Anvers, and figure 30 Greek point.
Many of the lace filling stitches are susceptible of other uses than
making lace, for instance the most beautiful drawn work is that wherein
occur many lace stitches, also in conventional embroidery they are espe-
cially useful for filling large surfaces.
many others of mere ornament that add much to the home-like comfort of
one's rooms, such as toilet sets, scrap bags, bracket covers, table covers, etc.,
that can be made by means of knitting or crocheting, and these can be man-
326 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
ufactured so cheaply, and in the odd minutes that would not otherwise be
employed, that the cost is not appreciated.
In the chapter devoted to this subject, no attempt at originality has
been made, but much time and labor have been expended in securing the
prettiest and most useful, as well as most ornamental articles that could be
found in two continents. The many friends of the writer in the United
States — from Maine to California, and from British Columbia to the Gulf
Coast — have been laid under requisition, and most generously have they
yielded their treasures to her insatiable demands for "more," and she
wishes here to thank the ladies who so kindly came to her assistance, send-
ing samples for illustrating, and instructions for making so many of the
articles here given. To friends in England, Scotland and France she is
has been obtained. You will then be prepared to use the terms whenever
you meet with them in the succeeding articles, illustrated in this chapter.
Having disposed of the terms for crochet work, proceed to solve the
difficulties of those given for knitting. Once actually at work, practically
trying to follow instructions, you will be surprised to see how easily diffi-
Tr. —Treble crochet: same as double crochet, except that the thread is thrown twice
round the hook before inserting the hook through the work. The stitches are worked off
L. t. c. — Long treble crochet: twine the thread three times round the hook, work as in
treble, bringing the thread through two loops four times.
Picot: made by working three chains, and one single crochet in first stitch of the chain.
CI. ch. St. — Close chain stitch: insert the hook in the loop of preceding row, and
draw thread through it and the loop on the needle at the same time.
Half dc. — Half double crochet: like double crochet, only pass the cotton through the
three loops on the needle, instead of passing it through two loops twice.
Round. — When the work done with four needles in a tubular web, this expression
is
describes one circuit of the web from the first stitch of the first needle to the last stitch of
the third needle inclusive.
Row. — This term is made use of only when the work is done on two needles in a flat
web.
Repeat. — This word, following a description of round or row, means that the same
work is to be done again, not only once, but throughout the round or row. In other places
the word implies a repetition of all rows or rounds preceding it in that rule.
Cast off. —This is done by knitting two stitches, passing the first one over the second,
and repeating as required.
328 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
CROCHETED DRESS FOR CHILD.
The top and skirt are crocheted separately, yet each is made of stripes
of crochet, afterwards joined together. For the skirt 15 such stripes sloped
off in the width are required. Figure 282 shows the widest part of each
» stripe at the lower edge of the skirt, and figure 280
of 4 ch. The upper edge of the skirt is secured by i row of ch. and dc,
this drawing the width into about 25^ inches, and i open dc. row(i
dc, I ch.) For the back on the left side a stripe 6 scallops long is required,
and each scallop here, as everywhere else, on the top worked of 3 hole rows.
These six scallops give a length of about g% inches. On the second stripe
I scallop more is worked for half the shoulder strap (the stripes are joined
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 329
as on the skirt), to this follows a stripe of only 5 scallops to form the arm-
ftole, on which the scallops are narrower above, so that the top becomes
somewhat tighter. A stripe of 8 points is now made to complete the shoul-
der; the two shoulder stripes are then sewn together. The middle of the
shoulder straps at the tops of the points; the rings are left out here, as
ribbon is afterwards drawn through the openings. An extra stripe is made
330 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
on the right back for the button fastening, but this is finished at the back
edge of the top only with the inner row of scallops, as seen in figure 280.
the first and last stitches; 35th to 65th rows, like thirty-third and thirty-
fourth rows. This completes the center part. For each of the side pieces
make 28 ch.
1st row, dc. turn the work, i ch., dc. in back edge of foundation stitches;
A novel idea is to carry one of these little purses worked in silk exactly
matching the dress, and many delicate shades are produced in silk;
as so
BABY'S SACQUE.
Materials: 4 ounces knitting silk, and three yards satin ribbon No. 4.
3 loops on side of
spider and 2 loops
through ch., draw the
silk <^hrough 6 loops,
peat.
To Widen. — Take
up five loops with the
one on needle, then
repeat, makmg two
spiders over one, be-
ing careful to finish fig. 286.
the two spiders at the end of the one spider of last row.
2d row, 15 plain, widen twice, i plain between; 3d row, 15 plain, widen
twice, 2 plain between; 4th row, 15 plain, widen twice, 3 plain between.
5th row, 15 plain, widen twice, 4 plain between; 6th row, 15 plain,
widen twice, 5 plain between; 7th row, 15 plain, widen twice, 6 plain between.
Work the front and back separately, leave sixteen spiders for front,
seven spiders for arm-holes, the rest for back. Make six rows on each.
All the yoke is worked back and forth, making a reversible spider stitch.
332 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
Skirt of Sacqiie. — This is worked crazy stitch; on the first row join the
back and fronts together at the side, ist row, repeat first of baby's hood,
on page 338, making a crazy stitch pattern over every spider, which pro-
duces the fullness required for the skirt. Make 38 rows as above.
Sleeve. — Make 17 crazy-stitch patterns round arm-hole; being at the
joining of back and front, turn the work at the end of each row and work
backward, which will produce the raised appearance of the stitch. Narrow
the ninth row in the center of the side of sleeve by taking the top of two
shells together and working as if they were one. Make twenty-four rows
alike, except the last one, where you put 2 tr. instead of 3 for spider. 25th
row. — * 2 dc. into every spider. * Repeat for 4 rows. Make 5 shells round
sleeve.
For —* dc, miss 2 into 10
Shells. i 3, tr. into same, miss 2, i dc; * repeat.
Last Row. — Turn over needle twice. Repeat last row of Baby's Hood,
on page 338.
For Shells around Cape. — Repeat instructions for shells, also same for
collar. Make i row of spiders between yoke and skirt for an edge. Make
two rows of holes with i ch. between.
For Neck. — Make shells for collar between these rows. Place a tied
bow of ribbon on each shoulder, a bow with long loops where yoke and
skirt join in front, and a small bow on sleeves.
BABY'S SHIRT.
Materials: 2 ounces "pure thread" knitting silk, and steel needle, Nos.
17 or 18. Cast on 164 stitches.
2nd row, p.; 3rd row, knit plain; 4th row; si. i, n., k. 2, * thread
over, k. i, thread over, k. 2, n. 2, k, 2; repeat from * across the needle.
5th row, p.; 6th row, like the 4th; 7th row, p.; 8th row, like the
4th; 9th row, knit plain; loth row, p.; nth row, k.
This makes one row of shells. Repeat until you have four rows, then
p. 2 and k. 2, 30 times across. Now divide the stitches, putting 82 on
a third needle (as you must knit up the two halves separately), and k. 2,
one needle, begin on the wrong side, knit across, then purl across, then knit
across, k. 2, thread over, narrow; * k. 2, thread over, narrow; repeat
from * to the end of needle; knit back, purl across, and cast off.
The row of holes around the neck are to put a ribbon in to draw it up.
Sleeves. — Cast on 64 stitches. For short sleeves k. 3 rows of shells
like the body. For long sleeves k. 2, p. 2, 26 times across; then put in
fine needles and k. 2, p. 2, about 10 times across. Cast off.
LADY'S VEST.
Materials: 6>^ ounces "pure thread" knitting silk, 2>^ yards of
pink satin ribbon about one inch in width, and 2% of very narrow pink
satin ribbon to run in the neck. Two steel needles. No. 17, twelve inches
in length, one fine steel crochet hook and one small skein of pink filo floss,
for sewing the seams. The knitting silk is too hard a twist to sew with,
and if used will make an uncomfortable seam to come next the skin.
The directions for making this vest are very simple.
made in two It is
pieces, frontand back, which are knit perfectly straight up and down upon
two needles, until the neck is reached, where shaping begins, as directions
will show. When
the front and back are completed they are joined by a
seam under each arm. The narrow strips which pass over the shoulder and
form the sleeve are joined by crocheting. The hip or lower part of vest is
widened by gussets, which are knit separately, one being placed in each
side seam. The neck, sleeves and hem of vest are finished with crochet
edges.
Formula. — Cast on with two needles, loosely, 200 stitches. This is the
lower edge of vest. In second row across arrange in ribs of threes and
twos. Every sixth row is purled all the way across. Continue with this
pattern until you have a straight piece twenty-four inches long; here arrange
the work so that in beginning to knit the wrong side of the fabric will be
next you. Now knit off in the usual way for 50 stitches, using an extra knit-
ting needle. Leave the remaining 150 stitches on another needle; secure
them by placing a small cork on each end of the needle. For the present
this needle of 150 stitches and you continue the pattern with the 50
is left,
stitches, thus shaping the neck and the short sleeves of the vest. Each
time the edge is reached ( the one which comes next the neck, not the
outer sleeve edge), narrow once by knitting 2 stitches together. Repeat
334 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
till you have the stitches reduced to 20. Upon these knit the pattern for
six inches, then cast off.
This makes a long slip, which is to form the sleeve or shoulder band
Next cast off loosely 100 stitches from the extra needle of 150. Upon the
remaining 50 stitches knit a strip to correspond to the strip already
described. Narrow only on the side next the neck.
One half of the vest is now completed. For the other half of the vest,
knit exactly as for the half already described. The lower part of the neck
between the shoulder-bands is filled with a pattern crocheted as follows,
beginning in the lower right-hand corner: Raise itr. ; make 5 ch., i tr.,
each side of every rib of 3 stitches. Break the silk at the Jnd of every
row already described.
Now with a fine crochet hook fill in the space between 'SiTie two long
strips with a square open-work pattern, described below and shown in
the accompanying illustration. Do likewise with the other half of the vest.
To make the open-work with which
this space is filled, upon the row already
made, work another row same as first,
with for the front and back described; also will have formed the sleeve oi
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 335
band. The other strips are joined just the same. Now work around the
edge next the neck i row of tr., setting them close together. To this row
add another, which work as follows, viz.: Make i tr. into each of 2 stitches
or tr. of preceding row; 5 ch.; pass over 5 tr.; repeat.
To this row add another by working thus: i tr. into each of the 2 tr. of
last row; i ch.; 4 tr.; each separated by i ch. into the third of 5 ch.; i ch.;
repeat.
Next add another rov/. i tr. into each of the 2 tr. of last row; i ch.;
4 tr.;each separated by 1 ch. into the center; i ch. between the tr. of last
'around the neck. Add a similar row of scallops to outer edge of strip-band
or sleeve. This completes the working of the band or sleeves. Run rib-
under the arms, leaving a space on the lower part of each seam for inser-
tion of gusset, say about five inches.
about one inch. Then narrow once at the beginning of every row; that is.
each time you turn the work. This narrows the work off to a point, or one
stitch. When the gusset is finished, make one more for the other side.
Sew into seam at lower or hip part of vest. These gussets are only neces-
sary for persons of large size. Now add to the edge of vest open-work
and scallops, as made above. This completes the work.
These garments are often knitted in cream white, pale pink or pale
blue silk, and will be found to be durable and elastic, fitting very neatly to
the figure.
the first stitch of every row: 1st row, plain; 2d row, p.; 3d row, plain;
4th row, si. I. *make one, k. 3, si. i, k. i, pass the slipped stitch over; k. 2
and repeat from * to the end; 2nd row, k. 3, p. 7, and repeat, and end with
p. 5 only.
3d row, same as the first row; 4th row, plain; 5th row, p. 3, k. 7, and
repeat, and end with p, 5 only.
6th row, p. 5, k. 3, * p. 7, k. 3, and repeat from * to the end. 7th row,
same as the 5th row.
8th row, plain. Repeat these 8 rows till you can count 18 blocks of
the basket pattern, 144 rows; or 21 blocks of the basket pattern, 168 rows;
according to the length required.
Then for the Shoulders: ist row, k. 5, p. 3, k. 7. p. 3, k. 7, p. 3, k. i, cast
the last stitch but one over the last stitch, and continue casting off till 26
stitches remain on the left-hand needle, then k, 3, p. 3, k. 7, p. 3, k. 7, p, 3.
together.
7th row, k. 6, p. 3, k. 7, p. 3, k. 5; 8th row, k. 22, k, 2 together.
9th row, p. 3, k, 7, p. 3, k. 7, p. 3; lOth row, k. 3, p. 7 k. 3, p. 7, k. I, k.
2 together.
2 together.
Now work upon the other shoulder, beginning inside the neck ( the
first row being already knitted ).
p. 3, k. 7, p. I.
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 337
k. 7, p. 4-
7. P- 3. k, 4.
Knit another similar piece for the back of the vest. Sew the shoulder
pieces together, and sew up the sides of the vest, from the bottom, leaving
space for the armholes.
For the Sleeves. — Cast on 69 stitches, and work 15 rows of the border,
the same as at the bottom of the vest, but doing i additional plain stitch
at the beginning and at the end of each row.
i6Lh row, plain knitting, and take 2 stitches together once in the course
of the rowj to bring 68 stitches on the needle. Now knit 8 rows of the
basket pattern, and cast off loosely. Make a little gusset by casting on 16
stitches, and knitting 26 plam rows, and cast off. Knit another sleeve and
another gusset in the same manner. Sew up the sleeves, taking care that
the gussets are placed properly. Crochet a dainty edge around the neck,
having first a row of holes to run in ribbon.
BABY'S HOOD.
Materials: i >^ ounces knitting silk and a steel crochet hook of mod-
erate size. Make 25 ch.
1st row, * I dc. into ist ch., 2 ch.; 3 tr. into same ch., miss 2, 2 ch., i dc.
row. * Repeat, making 25 rows which form crown of cap. Break off and
fasten on at the ch. stitches, which must form back of cap, and make a
mesh as follows:
To begin, make 5 ch., take up one loop as for a tr., putting the needle
in third. ch„ then, still holding the loop on needle, take another loop, put-
338 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
ting the needle in first stitch, draw the thread through 2 loops at once until
only one is left on the needle. 2nd mesh, make i tr. into every 3 ch., 2 ch.
between each mesh, making it wide enough to take satin ribbon No. 4; work
mesh around the crown.
Top of Head. — Repeat second row^
working every mesh until twelve rows are
done. Repeat row for mesh.
Repeat 2nd row three times. Make
I row of dc. round neck of cap.
Cape. — Repeat 3d row of Baby's
Sacque, on page 331, making 7 rows.
8th row, repeat 2nd row of Baby's
Sacque, on page 331, taking up three loops
on each side instead of two. 9th row,
repeat 7th row. Round the front of cap
make shells to meet those already made,
^!^^^g3^^™'^^^^" making a double front.
Edge. —* Make 10 tr, for shell, turning over the needle twice into third
ch., I dc. into next third ch. * Repeat round the cap and round cape, miss
two cross-stitches into third.
Last R0W.-1 ch. and a dc. into every tr., missing the dc. between the shells.
Under Cap. — 25 ch., 25 tr., for five rows, then making tr. round the
crown all but the neck for head. Make 7 rows. Sew in with silk. The
woolen lining makes the cap warmer, but if preferred, a wadded silk lining
can be used, made separate from the cap, instead of the woolen under-cap.
Split zephyr or Shetland is used double.
FANCY BAG.
Materials, i
J^ ounces knitting silk, i yard silk, satin or plush, and 4 J^
yards of ribbon 1% inches wide. To make the large rosettes, make 13 ch; join.
1st round, 3 ch., i tr. in first stitch, 4 ch., 2 tr. till there are seven points
to the star; join.
2nd round, 2 ch. and a row of str. around the star by making 4 str. in
each loop, and 2 str. on the upper edge of the points of the star; join.
3d round, 3 ch., i tr. in first stitch, 2 tr., 3 ch. and 2 tr. in every fourth
stitch to end of round; join.
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 339
4th round, 2 ch., 4 str. in each loop and 4 str. on the upper edge of the
tr. to end of row; join.
5th round, 3 ch., 2 tr. in first stitch, 4 ch., 2 tr. in the third and fourth
stitches to the end of the round; join.
6th round, 2 ch., 4 str. in loop, and 2 str. in upper edge of tr. to end of
round; join. 7th round, 3 ch., i tr. in first stitch, 6 ch., 2 tr. in fifth and
sixth stitches to end of round; join.
8th round, i str. between the tr. in the foundation, 8 tr. in each loop to
end of round.
To make the small rosettes, make 13 ch.; join, ist round, 2 ch., i tr;
in every first stitch, 4 ch. and 2 tr. till there are seven points in the star; join.
2nd round, 3 ch., i str. in every first stitch, 4 str. in loop, 2 str. on the
upper edge of tr. to end of round; join.
dc. in preceding row, 3 ch., 3 dc. around same; fasten around first stitch of
next chain of six, 6 ch., 3 dc. around next chain of three, 3 ch., 3 dc. around
same chain, fasten, 6 ch., 3 dc. around next chain of three, 3 ch., 3 dc.
around same chain, fasten, 6 ch., 3 dc. around next chain of three, 3 ch., 3
dc. around same, work 6 ch.; turn.
row.
4th row, 5 ch., 3 dc. around next chain of
three of third row, 3 ch., 3 dc. around same,
fasten, 6 ch., 3 dc. around next chain of three,
3 ch., 3 dc. around same, fasten, 6 ch., 3 dc.
5th row, turn, * i sc, 3 dc, i sc. around chain of three, *. Repeat four
times; 3 ch., 3 dc, around next chain of three of last row, * 3 ch., 3 dc.
around same, fasten, 6 ch., 3 dc. around next chain of three, repeat to the
end of the row.
Finally, make 5 ch. instead of 3.
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 341
3d row, 3 ch. I tr. into each of 9 tr, 3 tr. under 2 ch. 2 ch., 3 tr. under
same 2 ch., i tr. into each of 9 tr., pass over 2 ch., i sc. into each of 3 next
stitches; turn.
FIG. 291.
4th row, 2 ch. I tr. into first stitch, 2 ch., i tr. into next stitch *, 2 ch.,
pass over i stitch i tr. into the next, repeat from * 4 times more, 3 tr. each
separated by 2 ch. under 2 ch., 2 ch. i tr. into the next tr. *, 2 ch., pass
over I stitch i tr. into the next, repeat from * 5 times more, 2 ch. i tr. into
end stitch; turn.
5th row, 3 ch., 2 tr, under each 2 ch., repeat all round, work 3 instead of
2 tr. under the 2 ch. on each side the center tr., i sc into each of the 3
next ch.; turn.
6th row, 4 ch., pass over i stitch, i sc into each of the 2 next stitches;
3 ch., pass over 2 stitches, i dc. into the next, 4 ch., one dc. into end
stitch; turn.
2nd row, 3
ch., II tr. under
loop of 4 ch.,
turn; 3d row, 3
ch., I tr, into
third of II tr., i
FIG. 292.
^ i. . u • 4.
tr, I ch. into
each of 8 tr. of last row; turn.
4th row, 4 ch. I dc. between 2 tr. (see figure 292), 3 ch., i dc. between
2 next tr., repeat from * 5 times more, 4 ch. i dc. into end stitch, repeat
from second row for the length required.
When commencing the last row of next and following patterns, join to
preceding pattern by working 3 ch. i sc. into second loop of 3 ch. (see
figure 292), 3 ch., i sc. into first of previous 3 ch,
BORDER CROCHET.
Commence with i of the oblongs. Make a ch. of 16 stitches, work 14
rows backwards and forwards with i dc. into the back horizontal loop of
each stitch; for the oblong forming the point, work 17 dc. at one side of the
first oblong (see figure 293), work 13 rows; for the third oblong, work 16
dc. into the side of the last worked oblong, 3 ch., work backwards and
forwards on the ch, and the dc. for 14 rows; do not break off the cotton,
but commence the next pattern with 16 ch. as you did the first.
3 ch., I dc. into the sixth, 2 ch., i dc. into side of oblong (see figure 293),
8 ch., I dc. into the third, one sc. into each of 3 ch. before second picot, 9
ch., I dc, into the third, 2 ch., i sc. into side of next oblong (see figure 293),
8 ch., I dc. into the third, i sc, into each of 3 next ch., 6 ch., i dc. into the
first, I sc. into each of 3 next stitches, 11 ch. repeat from the beginning of
the row.
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 343
2nd row, i tr. into a stitch, i ch., pass over i stitch and repeat.
3rd row, I tr. into each stitch; 4th row, i tr. into a stitch, i ch., pass
over I stitch and repeat.
For the edge:
1st row, * I double
tr. into the fifth stitch
at side of oblong, 2 ch.,
4 times more, i dc. into each of 7 next stitches of last row; work 4 more of
these scallops on the vandyke.
TRIMMING CROCHET.
Make a chain the length required.
1st row, I dc. into each of 19 stitches, 9 ch., pass over 8 stitches, and
repeat from the beginning of the row. 2nd row, i dc. into the second and
16 following dc. of last row, 3 ch. 2 tr. separated by 4 ch., into center of 9
ch. 3 ch., repeat from the beginning of the row.
3rd row, I dc. into the second and 14 following dc. of last row, 2 ch. 6
tr. each separated by i ch. over the 2 tr. and 4 ch. of last row (see figure
6th row, I dc. into the second and i into each of the 8 following dc. of
last row, 2 ch., 13 tr. each separated by i ch. over the tr. of last row (see
figure 294), 2 ch.; repeat from the beginning of the row.
7th row, I dc. into the second and i into each of the 6 following dc. of
last row, 2 ch. 14 tr., each separated by i ch. over the tr. of last row (see
figure 294), 2 ch.; repeat from the beginning of the row.
FIG. 294.
8th row, one dc, into the second and i into each of the 4 following dc.
of last row, 2 ch., 17 tr. each separated by i ch. over the tr. of last row, 2 ch;
repeat from the beginning of the row.
9th row, I dc. into the second and i into each of the 2 following dc. of
last row, 2 ch. 18 tr. each separated by i ch. over the tr. of last row, 2 ch.;
repeat.
loth row, I dc into each of the 3 dc. of last row, keep the top loops on
the hook, draw through all together, 3 ch. 20 tr. each separated by i ch. over
FIG. 295.
1st row, k.; 2nd row, si. i, by knitting the horizontal thread
make i
lying under next loop (all the increases at the beginning and end of each
alternate row are made in this way), knit the next stitch, make i, k, i.
3d row, si. I, k. to end of row, the first stitch is slipped in every row.
4th row, si. I, make i, k. i, cotton over the pin, k. i, cotton over the pin,
make i, k. i.
cotton over the pin, k. 3, cotton over the pin, k. 9, cotton over the pin, k. 3,
3, k, 2 together, k. 7, make i, k. i.
I, k. 2 together, k. 8, make i, k. i.
31st row, si. I, k. to end of row; 32nd row, in this row 3 raised oatterns
are commenced. Si. i, make i, k. 5, cotton over pin, k. i, cotton over pin,
k. 9, cotton over pin, k. I, cotton over pin, k. 9, cotton over pin, k. i, cotton
over pin, k. 5, make i, k. i.
45th row, si. I, k. 46; 46th row, si. i, make i, k. 7 *, cotton over the pin,
k. I, cotton over the pin, k. 9, repeat from * 3 times more, except that in
together.
6th row, knit without decrease; 7th row, purl, decreasing at the
beginning and end of row.
8th row, knit; 9th row, purl, decreasing at the beginning and end of
row; loth row, knit, without decrease.
Then repeat from the first row of second half until 3 stitches only-
join in same way in same place, ch. 2, join with s. s. into ch. i between first
FIG. '97-
6th row, ch. 5, i dc.
into joining stitch of preceding row, * ch. 2, i dc. into fourth stitch from pre-
ceding, ch. I, I dc. into same stitch as before *, repeat from * to * until there
are 24 couplets, which should bring one back to starting point, ch. 2; join
with s. s.
7th row, same as 3d row, except there will be 24 picots mstead of 12.
The wheels may be joined while making, or afterwards, as one chooses,
EDGING.
Make a chain of 40 stitches.
1st row, dc. into 7th stitch of ch., 3 dc. fhto next 3 stitches, * ch. 2, dc.
into third stitch *, repeat from * to * 4 times, 6 dc. into next 6 stitches,
repeat from * to * 2 times, 3 dc. into next 3 stitches; turn.
2nd row, ch. 3, 3 dc. into last 3 dc. of previous row, (the ch. counts as
I dc. whenever used for turning, so that there will always be 4 dc. upon 4
dc. at this point,) * ch. 2, dc. into third stitch *, repeat from * to * once, 3
(Throughout the further rows "from * to *" will mean the same as in these
two rows.)
3d row, ch. 3, 7 dc. into next 7 stitches, ch. 5, 4 dc. into 4 stitches imme-
diately following the 7 stitches; repeat from * to * 3 times, 6 dc. into next
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 349
6 stitches, repeat from * to * 2 times, 3 dc. into next 3 stitches, repeat from
* to * 3 times, 3 dc. into next 3 stitches; turn.
4th row, ch. 3, 3 dc. into next 3 stitches, repeat from * to * 5 times, 12
dc. into next 12 stitches, repeat from * to * 3 times, 14 dc. into loop; turn.
5th row, ch. 3, 7 dc. into next 7 stitches, ch.
5, 4 dc. into next 4 stitches,
times, 12 dc. into next 12 stitches, repeat from * to * 2 times, 3 dc. into
next 3 stitches; turn.
8th row, ch. 3, 3 dc. into next 3 stitches, repeat from * to * 2 times, 12
dc. into next 12 stitches, repeat from * to * 2 times, 12 dc. into next 12
stitches, repeat from * to * 4 times, 14 dc. into loop; turn.
9th row, ch. 3, 7 dc. into next 7 stitches, repeat from * to * i time, 7
dc. into next 7 stitches, repeat from * to * 4 times, 6 dc. into next 6 stitches,
repeat from * to * i time, 6 dc. into next 6 stitches, repeat from * to * i
350 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
time, 6 dc, into next 6 stitches, repeat from * to * 3 times, 3 dc. into next 3
stitches; turn.
loth row, ch. 3, 3 dc. into next three stitches, repeat from * to * 5 times,
12 dc. into next 12 stitches, repeat from * to * 5 times, 13 dc. into next 13
stitches; turn.
nth row, ch. 3, 7 dc. into next 7 stitches, repeat from * to * i time, 6
dc. into next 6 stitches, repeat from * to * 4 times, 12 dc. into next 12
14th row, cli. 3, 3 dc. into next 3 stitches, repeat from * to * 3 times, 6
dc. into next 6 stitches, repeat from * to * 5 times, 13 dc. into next 13
stitches; turn.
15th row, ch. 3, 7 dc. into next 7 stitches, repeat from * to * i time, 6
dc. into next 6 stitches, repeat from * to * 2 times, 6 dc. into next 6 stitches,
repeat from * to * 5 times, 3 dc. into next 3 stitches; turn.
i6th row, ch. dc. into next 3 stitches, repeat from * to * 3 times, 6
3, 3
dc. into next 6 stitches, repeat from * to * 2 times, 15 dc. into next 15
stitches; turn.
17th row, ch. 3, 5 dc. into next 5 stitches, ch. 5, 4 dc. into next 4 stitches,
repeat from * to * 5 times, 6 dc. into next 6 stitches, repeat from * to * 2
times, 3 dc. into next 3 stitches; turn.
i8th row, same as 2nd row, etc.
DIAMOND EDGING.
Make a chain of 50 stitches; ist row, 5 dc. into sixth stitch, * ch. 2, 5 dc.
into third stitch from preceding *, repeat from * to * 4 times, ch. 2, 2 dc. into
third and fourth stitches from preceding, repeat from * to * 6times, ch. 2, 2 dc.
into third and fourth stitches from preceding, ch. 2, i dc. into last stitch
ch. 2, 5 dc. into next ch. 2 *, repeat from * to * 4 times, ch. 2, 6 dc. into the
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 351
3d row, ch. 3,
* 5 dc. into ch. 2, ch. 2 *, repeat from * to * 3 times, 10
dc. into the 10 stitches following the shell, ch. 2, repeat from * to * 4 times,
6 dc. into the first six stitches following shell, ch. 2, 3 dc. into third stitch of
loop; turn.
4th row, ch. 5, 8 dc. into the
ing row, (the 4 dc. with ch. 4 make the shell of five, as usual,) ch. 2, 5 dc. into
first dc. of last shell, ch. 2, pass over 4 stitches and make 18 dc. into next 18
stitches, ch. 2, 5 dc. into last dc. of shell, ch. 2, 5 dc. into first dc. of shell,
ch. 2, pass over 4 stitches and make 10 dc. into next 10 stitches, ch. 2, i
into first dc. of first shell, ch. 2, 5 dc. into ch. 2, ch. 2, 5 dc. into last dc. of
last shell, * ch. 2, pass over 4 stitches and make 14 dc. into next 14 stitches,
ch. 2, 5 dc. into ch. 2, ch. 2, 5 dc. into first dc. of third shell, ch. 2 *, pass over
4 stitches and make 10 dc. into next 10 stitches, ch. 2, 5 dc. into last dc. of
first shell, repeat from * to * once, pass over 4 stitches and make 6 dc. into
next 6 stitches, ch. 2, i dc. into third stitch of loop; turn.
lOth row, ch. 5, 4 dc. into first 4 dc. of preceding row, * ch 25 dc. into
first dc. of first shell, ch. 2, 5 dc. into ch. 2, ch. 2, 5 dc. into ch. 2, ch. 2, 5 dc.
into ch. 2, ch. 2, 5 dc. into last dc. of fourth shell, * ch. 2, pass over 4 stitches
and make 6 dc. into next 6 stitches, repeat fiom * to * once; turn.
nth row, ch. 4, 4 dc. into last dc. of last shell,
'•'
ch. 2, 5 dc. into ch. 2 *,
repeat from * to * 3 times, ch. 2, 5 dc. into first dc. of fifth shell ch. 2, qass
over 4 stitches and make 2 dc. into next 2 stitches, cli. 2, 5 dc. into last dc.
of first shell, repeat from * to * 4 times, ch. 2, 5 dc. into first dc. of fifth shell,
ch. 2, pass over 4 stitches and' make 2 dc. into next 2 stitches, ch. 2, i dc.
FERN TRIMMING.
The heading of this trimming is worked shortwise, and the scallop edge
lengthwise.
Make a chain of 7 stitches, join round, ist row, 5 ch., 8 tr. under the
ch.; turn.
2nd row, 4 ch. *, pass over i tr., i tr. into the next, i ch., repeat from *
3 times more, 4 ch., 8 tr. under 5 ch.; turn and repeat from second row for
the length required.
For the edge, which is worked lengthwise:
1st row, I dc. into a point of heading, 6 ch., i dc. into next point;
repeat to the end of the row.
2nd row, i tr. into a stitch, i ch., pass over one stitch and repeat.
3d row, I dc. into each of 13 stitches, 5 ch., pass over 5 stitches, i tr.
into each of 3 stitches, 5 ch., pass over 5 stitches- repeat from the begin-
ning of the row.
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 353
4th row, I dc. into each dc. of last row, 4 ch., i tr. into last of 5 ch. and
each of 2 next stitches, 3 ch., i tr. into same stitch last tr. was worked into
and I into each of the 2 next stitches, 4 ch.; repeat from the beginning of
the row.
5th row, I dc. into the second of 13 dc. and i into each of 10 following
stitches, 4 ch., i tr. into each of 3 next tr., i ch., 3 tr. into center of 3 ch., i
ch., I tr. into each of 3 tr., 4 ch.; repeat from the beginning of the row.
6th row, I dc. into the second and each of 8 following dc, 3 ch. *, i tr. into
each of 3 tr., i ch., repeat from * once more, 3 ch., i tr. into same stitch the
last tr, was worked into and i into each of 2 next stitches, i ch., i tr. into
each of 3 next tr., 3 ch.; repeat from the beginning of the row.
FIG. 300.
7th row, I dc. into the second and each of 6 following dc, 3 ch. *, i tr,
into each of 3 next tr., i ch., repeat from * once more, i ch. 3 tr. into center
of 3 ch., I ch.. I tr. into each of 3 next tr., i ch., i tr. into each of 3 next
stitch, I into the next, 3 ch., i tr. into same stitch last was worked into, 2
into the next *, 2 ch., i tr. into each of 3 tr., repeat from last * once more,
3 ch.; repeat from the beginning of the row.
gth row, i dc. into each of 3 center stitches of dc, 2 ch. *, i tr. into
each of 3 tr., repeat from * 6 times more, working the center 3 tr. into cen-
354 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
ter of 3 ch., 3 ch.; repeat from the beginning of the row.
lOth row, * I tr. into each of 3 tr., 2 ch., repeat from * twice more, 2
ch., 2 tr. into next tr., i into the next 2 ch., i tr. into same stitch last worked
into, 2 into the next *, 2 ch., 2 tr. into each of 3 next tr.; repeat from last
* twice more, then repeat from the beginning of the row.
nth row, I dc. under first i ch. of scallop *, 4 ch., i dc. under the next
2 ch.; repeat from the beginning of the row.
I2th row, 6 dc. under each 4 ch. of last row.
On the other side of the heading stripe work 2 rows like the 2 first
rows of edge.
CROCHET TRIMMING.
This trimming is worked lengthwise. Make a chain the length
required.
1st row, I tr. into a stitch, 2 ch., pass over 2 stitches and repeat.
2nd row, i dc. into each stitch of previous row.
3d row, I sc. into each of 6 stitches, 16 ch., work down the chain with
I sc. into first stitch, i dc. into next, i half tr. into each of 10 next stitches,
I tr. into each of the next stitches, pass over i stitch of last row, then
FIG. 301.
Turn the work, and work a row of points at the back of the last row
in exactly the same way as already described.
4th row, turn the two points which lie together, one to the right, the
other to the left, and interlace them, as shown in the illustration, work i sc.
into 2 points together, 7 ch.; repeat from the beginning of the row.
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 355
6th row, I dc. into each of 9 stitches of last row, 11 ch., pass over 9
stitches and repeat from the beginning of the row.
7th row, I dc. into each of the 7 center stitches of 9 dc, * 2 ch., pass
over I stitch, i tr. into the next, repeat from * twice more, 3 ch., i tr. into
same stitch last tr. was worked into, * 2 ch., pass over i stitch, i tr. into
the next, repeat from last * once more, 2 ch., then repeat from the begin-
ning of the row.
8th row, I dc. into each of 3 center stitches of 7 dc, 4 ch., pass over 4
stitches, I dc into the next, * 4 ch., pass over 2 stitches, i dc. into the next,
repeat from * 5 times more, 4 ch.; repeat from the beginning of the row.
NARROW EDGING.
The edging is worked backwards and forwards as follows: 14 ch., turn;
1 sc in the ninth, ch, (the last stitch is reckoned here and afterwards as
the first stitch), 7 ch., i sc. in the 14th ch.; turn; * 7 ch., i dc. in the sixth
of these 7 ch., i ch., i sc, in the fourth of the next 7 ch., 4 ch., i dc. in the
last but one of these 7 ch., i ch., i sc in the fourth of the 8 ch.; turn.
foot of the dc, i ch., i si., i sc. and i dc. in the second-fourth ch., 2 ch., in
the course of the work loop here on to the last picot of the foregoing curve,
2 ch., 1 sc in the last dc, i ch., i dc (this like the following dc. are worked
into each of the next ch.), i picot (here and later on of 4 ch., and i sc. in
the last dc), i ch., i dc, i p., i ch., i dc, i p., i ch., i dc, i p., i
ch., I dc, I sc and i si. in the next 2 ch., 4 ch., i dc. in the last ch. but one,
I ch., I sc in the fourth of the 7 ch., 4 ch., i dc. in the sixth of the same 7
ch., I ch., I sc. in the fourth of the 8 ch.; turn; 8 ch., i sc. in the first of the
4 ch., 7 ch., I sc, in the first of the next 4 ch., turn, and repeat from star.
BROAD EDGING.
The scallops of the wide cotton braid are to be laid over each other as
seen, and in the straight edge thus made are crocheted alternately i dc.
and I ch.
24
356 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
2nd row, repeat constantly i dc. in every second dc, 3 ch. and 4 do.
3d and 4th rows, like the first row, the single dc. being caught into the
first of the a dc.
FIG 303.
5th row, alternately i sc, in the first of the 4 dc. and i ch; 6th row,
alternately i dc. and i ch.
The lower, curved edge fulled somewhat, requires: ist row, alternately
I tr. in the braid curve turned over, and 13 tr., separated by i ch. in the
I sc. in the third last but one of the 10 ch., i ch., i dc, in the last of the 10
ch., * t 5 ch. loop on to the sixth of the 11 ch. (the stitch to be looped on
had better be slipped off first, the hook inserted into the link required, then
the stitch taken up again and both stitches now on the hook meshed
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 357
off, putting the cotton over once), 5 ch., i double long tr. in the dc, 5 ch.,
FIG. 304. dc. (these 4 dc. are worked into each of the
second of the 9 ch.), 2 ch., i sc. worked, first into the first sc, later on again
after the 6 ch., turn.
5 picots of 4 ch. and i dc. back into the last sc, between the picots 1
sc. always in to the dc. after the last picot, i sc. in the sixth of the 11 ch.
already caught up, 11 ch., i sc in the ch., before the double long tr., i ch.,
I dc. in this double long tr.; repeat from cross to cross, then loop on to the
sc, after the last picot, 6 ch., loop on to the sixth of the 11 ch., 11 ch., i sc,
in the last ch. before the double long tr., i dc. in the double long tr., and
repeat from star,
RETICELLA CROCHET.
The pattern here given is at once beautiful and of practical service as
it can be varied in width and used for many different purposes. Figure 306
shows the design as a border, and figure 305 shows it used as an insertion
for trimming dinner cloth in place of drawn work. This crocheted lace
has this great advantage over the same amount of drawn work, that it
1 tr. in the last ch., which finishes the ring, * 5 ch., 2 tr., meshed off looping
the cotton over once, in the first ch., 7 ch., i sc, in the next ring-ch., 7 ch,,
2 tr, meshed together looping cotton over once, in the next ring-ch, and
repeat three times from star.
358 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
In repeating for the third time after the second 7 ch. pass over with
3-4 si. the first group of bars and the next 2 ch., then, as a foundation for
the thick edge, work 8 ch., i dc. in the third of the 5 ch., therefore beside
the last si., * 7 ch., work always twice 2 meshed together, looping cotton
tr.,
over twice; the first group of bars is worked into the third of the first 7 ch.,
the second into the fifth of the next 7 ch., 7 ch., i dc. in the third of the
5 ch., 5 ch., I dc. again in the third ch. and repeat from star. After the
last 7 ch. I si. in the third of the 8 ch. with which the row was begun. 2
rows of sc. are now crocheted stitch for stitch, and for the corners 3 sc.
always worked in the third of the 5 ch. A row of i dc, i ch. completes the
square, 2 dc. being always worked in each corner mesh.
The rosette-like shapes are begun with a ring of 8-10 ch. into which are
worked after 3 ch. (in place of first dc.) 23 dc. Then i si. in the third ch.,
3 ch. (in place of first dc.) and 1 1 times 3 ch. and i dc. in every second dc, 3
ch., I si. in the fourth ch., * i sc. round the 3 ch., 4 ch., 2 tr. each meshed
together looping the cotton over once, 3 ch., again 2 such tr., 4 ch., and i sc,
these and the group of bars round the same 3 ch., as also the i sc, repeat
II times from star. Work up to the top of the first scallop with si. here
work I sc. round the 3 ch., then 12 times 7-9 ch. and i sc. round the 3 ch., i
si. in the i sc, round each scallop 4 sc, i p., (4 ch. and i sc. back into
the last sc.) 3 sc, i p., 4 sc, then loop on to the first sc, fasten the
already caught up, 5 ch., i sc. in the fifth ch., and repeat from star. The
first row at the lower pointed edge is worked backwards the whole length.
306), 4 ch., I sc. in I p., again 8 ch. separated by i p., again i sc, 5 ch., and
the first sc. in the corner of the square. Beginning with the small point,
this is now completed separately, and in rows backwards and forwards, as
360 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
already mentioned above. Round the chain curves are worked 6 as also 12
sc, where they are not interrupted by a picot, yet where this takes place
after figure 306, 4 !Si5as
The curves on
the large pointed
scallop are each of
6 ch., I p. turned
downwards, and 6
ch. They are cro-
cheted where the
picots are wanting,
with 7 and also 14
ways go before,
separate, and fol-
low the picots.
Figure 306 ex-
plains the upper
edge, therefore it
is only necessary
to add that the
small leaf-curves,
each separated by
I sc, are of 4 ch.
and I dc back into
The above description has been very carefully verified and there will
be no trouble in following. When used as an insertion for table cloth, it
should be set in with a double hem on the outside with a row of hemstitch-
ing on both edges.
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 361
the armhole after 5 groups of dc, and then 7 groups of the former row
passed over; when 13 groups of dc. have been
crocheted 11 stitches are again cast on for the
second armhole and 7 groups passed over.
5th row, a fresh group of dc. is always
worked in the fourth and eighth foundation
the whole link; each of these rows has 133 meshes. The skirt is now
begun and requires larger groups of dc, increased gradually in size going
downwards, as seen in the full size on figure 307.
1st row, I dc. in the first mesh, 3 dc. in the following one, again i dc.
in the next mesh; this group is repeated 26 times passing over 2 meshes
every time.
2nd to 4th row, like the ist; the three dc. are each worked into the
second of the 3 dc. of the former row. As the skirt slit is now long
enough, the crochet is worked round from
this time.
CROCHET TASSEL.
This illustration shows in the proper size, and without tassels, a
trimming for bordering small tables. It is crocheted with German wool in
three shades of brown. The left side of the work is turned to the outside
when the trimming is used, and enriched with gold tinsel. The upper
scallops are made first with the middle shade and in constant repetition, as
follows: 5 ch. and in these going backwards and leaving the last unworked,
I
FIG. 310.
I sc, I half tr., i dc, and i tr. At the foot of the points the next row is
worked with the darkest wool: i si. in the hollow of a scallop, * 12 ch.,
passing over the last, back into the iith-7th ch., i sc, 3 dc. and i sc, 6 ch. i
si. in the second next hollow of a scallop but one, 13 ch., take the hook out
of the thread loop and put this from below to above through the sixth ch.,
5 ch., I si. in the next hollow of a scallop and repeat from star.
364 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
The 3d row now follows with the lightest wool, leaving the second row
at the back untouched: * In the hollow of the scallop, which is not caught
up by the darkest wool, 5 dc, 6 ch. in the fourth of the 7 ch. which form a
ring of the darkest wool, 6 si. each separated by 5 ch., 6 ch. and repeat from
star. Chain stitches of tinsel thread border the upper scallops and the
ovals in the second (darkest) row; the rows of chain above the same being
wound over several times with tinsel thread, after which, starting from the
left side, the middle mesh in the group of bars in the lightest row is united
invisibly with the darkest by a few stitches, fastening at the same time
both ends of the tinsel thread. The half rosettes of the light wool are then
ornamented with long star-like stitches of the latter, and the chains of the
two dark shades united by twisting them several times with the same. To
make tassels to susqend from each of the points, take about 40 threads,
each from 4^ to 5}^ inches long of the middle shade; twist over very
tight in the middle with black thread, and then about ^ inches
from below with tinsel thread. Fasten each tassel on the left of the light
half rosette by drawing a loop of wool through the black thread.
take the place of a tr., * 5 ch., i tr. between 2 next picots, repeat from last *
In working the next and following circles, draw through the center of
one of the 5 ch. Continue to work the circles until you have the length
required.
For the ist straight row of heading, work i double tr.^ into center of 5
ch. at left hand of a circle (see figure 311), i double tr. in center of 5 ch. of
next circle, 6 ch., i tr. into center of next 5 ch., 6 ch., repeat from the
beginning of the row.
2nd row, i tr. into a stitch, i ch., pass over i stitch and repeat. Work
2 rows like these on the other side of circles.
3d row, I tr. into a stitch, 2 ch., pass over 2 stitches, and repeat.
4th row, I dc. into each of 16 stitches, 9 ch. pass over 6 stitches, and
repeat from the beginning of the row.
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 365
5th row, I dc. into the second and each of 13 following dc, 2 ch., pass
over the first of 9 ch., i tr. into each of 3 next stitches, 2 tr. separated by 2
ch. into the next, i tr. into each of 3 next stitches, 2 ch.; repeat from the
beginning of the row.
6th row, I dc. into the second and each of 11 following dc, 2 ch., i tr., i
ch. into the second and each of 2 next tr., i ch., 2 tr., 3 ch. under 2 ch.,
1 ch., I tr. into each of 3 tr., 2 ch.; repeat from the beginning of the row.
7th row, I dc. into the second and each of 9 following dc, 3 ch., i
tr., I ch. into each of 4 tr., i ch., i tr. into next stitch, i ch., 2 tr. separated
by 2 ch. into the next stitch, i ch. i tr. into next stitch, i ch. i tr. into each
of 4 tr., 3 ch.; repeat from
the beginning of the row,
8th row, I dc. into the
ated by 2 ch. are worked into i stitch, 5 ch repeat from the beginning of
the row.
loth row, I sc. into center of 3 dc, 6 ch., i sc into first tr., 3 ch., pass
over 3 stitches, i dc, into next stitch, 3 ch., i sc. into the first, 4 ch., i sc
into last sc, 3 ch., i sc. into last sc, i dc. into next stitch of last row, 3 ch.,
pass over 2 stitches, i dc. into the next, * 7 ch., i sc. into the fourth, 4 ch.,
I sc. into last sc, pass over 2 stitches of last row, i tr. into the next, 3 ch., i
sc. into the first, 3 ch., pass over 2 stitches and repeat from * 4 times more,
366 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
cluster of scallop, 6ch.; repeat from
then work another cluster like the first
with coarse cotton and gummed, after which pin it out on a board to dry;
when dry and stiff, coat with gold paint. This will make a most novel and
2nd row, i dc. into the third and each of the 17 following dc, 3 ch., 3
tr. into the last of 4 ch., 4 ch., 3 tr. into the first of next 4 ch., 3 ch.; repeat
from the beginning of the row.
3d row, I dc. into the third and each of 12 following dc, 3 ch., i tr.
into each of 3 tr., 3 ch., 3 tr. into center of next 4 ch., 3 ch., i tr. into each
of 3 next tr., 3 ch.; repeat from the beginning of the row.
4th row, I dc. into the third and each of 7 following dc, 3 ch., i tr.
into each of 3 next tr., 3 ch., 3 tr. into next tr., 3 ch., pass over i tr., 3 tr.
into next, 3 ch., i tr. into each of 3 next tr., 3 ch.; repeat from the begin-
ning of the row.
5th row, I tr. into the second and into each of the 5 following dc, 3
ch., I tr. into each of the 3 next tr., 4 ch., i tr. into each of 3 next tr., 3 ch.,
3 tr. into 3 ch., 3 ch., I tr. into each of 3 next tr., 4 ch., i tr. into each of
3 ch., I second of 9 ch., i double tr. into each of 3 next tr., keep
sc. into
the top loop of each on the hook, and draw through altogether, 6 ch., 3
double tr. worked like the last into next tr., 3 ch., 3 double tr. worked as
before into next tr., 4 ch., pass over i tr., 3 double tr. worked as before into
next tr., 3 ch., 3 double tr. worked as before into next tr., 6 ch., 3 double tr.
worked as before into next tr.; repeat from the beginning of the row.
7th row, I double tr. into second cluster of double tr. (see design), 5
ch., I tr. into next cluster, 7 ch., i tr. into next cluster, 5 ch., i double tr.
into next cluster, 6 ch., work one quadruple tr. into fifth of 6 ch., work ofif
two loops, work a double tr. into same stitch, work 2 double tr. into corres-
ponding stitch of next scallop, work off the rest of the loops of the quad-
ruple tr., 6 ch.; repeat from the beginning of the row.
8th row, I tr. into a stitch, i ch., pass over i stitch and repeat.
Commence the other half on the other side of the foundation chain; it
into tr. of last row, 3 ch., 3 dc. into center of dc. of last row, 3 ch.; repeat
from the beginning of the row.
5th row, I dc. into the first tr., 5 ch., i dc. into the second, i ch., i tr.
into third tr., * 7 ch., i dc, into the third ch., i tr. into next stitch, repeat
from * four times more, 2 ch., i dc. into the last tr., 2 ch.; repeat from the
beginning of the row.
CROCHETED TABLE COVER.
This cover is about twenty-four inches square and crocheted with cream
linen thread No. 70. The center and edging are worked of the same trans-
parent star design, and are separated by a thick band, one and one-half inches
wide. The work is begun with the single stars in the center, afterwards
united by a guipure ground.
Each row of stars requires: 2 ch., i picor, 2 ch.,
I picot, 8 ch., I picot, 2 ch., i picot, 2 ch., i sc.
—
made on the pattern cover there were eight — yet in
FIG, 313. crocheting the last star seven rays instead of three
are made, one after another, and the half-star then completed, going for-
wards as follows: * 4 sc, in the next 4 ch., i picot, 2 sc, i picot, 2 sc, 7
ch., 2 sc, I picot, 2 sc, I picot, 4 sc.
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 369
Three rays now follow these meshes, which are repeated from star,
The rows of stars are crocheted together, beginning with i sc. worked
into the point of the last finished ray, and require: 11 ch., i sc. in the fol-
lowing point of the ray, * work twice 11 ch. and i sc. each in the next ray,
8 ch,, I sc. in the fourth of the 7 ch. between the stars, 8 ch. i sc. in the
next ray of the second star.
Work four times 2 ch., ana i picot, then loop i ch. on to the sc. which
are caught into the last ray of the foregoing star before the first 8 ch., going
370 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
forwards i sc. into the i ch., then work four times i picot and 2 ch.; now
repeat from star until the whole row is bordered round.
At the end of the row, as at the beginning, three times ii ch. and I sc.
For the second row crossing the just-described one, the thread is again
put on at the point of the first ray for the second row of stars and the cro-
chet continued thus: ii ch., i sc. in the next point of the ray, work four
times 2 ch. and i picot. The illustrations will make this quite clear.
Then i ch.,loop
on to the sc, which
catch up the last ray
but one of the first
in the point of the next ray, 3 ch., loop on to the 3 ch. of the
opposite chain of the former row, 8 ch., i sc. in the next ray point, twice 2
ch. and i picot, then i ch., loop on between the second and third picot of
the whole picot bar of the former row, going forwards i sc. in the i ch.,
twice I picot and 2 sc. in the 2 ch., 8 ch., i sc. in the fourth of the seventh
ch., 8 ch., I sc. in the next ray point of the following star, twice 2 ch. and I
picot, then i ch., again loop on between the second and third picot of the
above-mentioned picot bar, going forwards i sc. in the i*ch., twice i picot
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 371
and 2 sc. in the 2 ch.; repeat from star until the row is finished; at the end
of the same a whole picot bar must be crocheted, as at the beginning, which
is again to be looped tight to the first star row.
It must be remarked that at the outer edge of the first and last row of
stars, the first uniting row through a half-picot bar is required at each cor-
ner of the cover (see figure 315).
When the center is finished the band is crocheted, beginning at one of
these half-picot bars at the corner: i sc, in this * 11 ch., i sc. in the third
last ch. but one of the next ii ch. of the center, 5 ch., i sc. in the third ch.
of the following ii of the center, 11 ch., i sc. between the second and third
picot of a whole picot bar.
Repeat from star.
In the second row i dc. comes alternately with i ch., in the corner
meshes 3 dc. are always to be crocheted.
Now follow 10 rows of sc, worked into each hind mesh link, and in
The last open bar row (double) is shown, figure 314, with the edging.
For this two rows of stars are to be set together (see figure 315).
Figure 314 shows clearly how the row margining the edging inside is
eight of which are needed. The stripes are sewn together, and the border
is worked separately, and is sewn on to the edge of stripes.
Commence at the bottom of the stripe; cast on 40 stitches, with pins
No. 10.
I
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 373
3d round, i dc. into a stitch, 3 ch., i dc. into next stitch; repeat from
beginning of round.
4th round, i dc. into center of 3 ch., 5 ch.; repeat all round.
5th round, i dc. into center of 5 ch., 9 ch., i dc. into the fifth *, 5 ch., i
dc. into the second, repeat from * twice more, i sc. into fourth of g ch., 3
ch.; repeat from the beginning of the round.
6th round, i dc. between second and third picots of a loop of last
round, * 5 ch., i dc. into the second, repeat from * 4 times more, then repeat
from the beginning of the round, pin to first stitch of round, break off the
FIG. 317.
thread and fasten securely at the back of the work; when working the last
round of the next and following rosettes join to previous rosette by draw-
ing through a picot on each of two scallops — see figure 317.
For the heading:
1st row, hold the rosettes in the left hand, work i dc. into the center
picot of first scallop after the joining of second rosette *, 12 ch., i dc. into
the eighth, 5 ch., i dc. into next picot, 12 ch., i dc. into the eighth, 2 ch., i
dc. into the center of 5 ch., 11 ch., i dc. into the seventh, 12 ch., i dc. into
second picot of next scallop before joining of the first rosette, 3 ch., i dc. into
374 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
fourth of 12 ch., 4 ch., i dc. into fifth of 12 ch., 4 ch., pass over i picot of
same scallop, i dc. into next; break off the cotton and fasten neatly at the
rosette (see design), 11 ch., i dc. into the seventh, 2 ch., i dc. into second
picot of next scallop, 13 ch., i dc. into the ninth, 2 ch., i dc. into center of
loop of 9 ch. (see design), * 12 ch., i dc. into the eighth, 2 ch., i dc. into
third stitch past next picot, repeat from * once more, 12 ch., i dc. into the
eighth, 2 ch., i dc. into the center picot of next scallop of following rosette;
repeat from first * to the end of row.
3d row, I dc. into fifth of 12 ch. of last row, 12 ch., i dc. into the eighth,
7th row, work 5 sc, into the folded braid at the other side of vandyke,
7 ch., I dc. into the fourth, 3 ch.; repeat from the beginning of the row.
8th row, I tr, into each stitch of last row.
22nd row, k.; 23d row, k. 14, k. i and p. i, in the next stitch, k. 24,
k. I and p. i in the next stitch, repeat from the beginning of the row once
more, end with k. 14.
24th row, k,; 25th row, like 23d row, with the exception that you k. 15
up the shoulders, pick up i stitch at the end of each ridge of both fronts,
and knit across in a row with the 24 stitches of the back to form
the neck.
1st row, k.; 2nd row, silk forward, k. 2 together throughout; repeat
the ist row 3 times more, then cast off. For the sleeve commence at the
22nd to 26th row, k., repeat from the 21st row 5 times more, work 8
more rows without increase, then cast off; sew up the sleeves, and sew into
the arm-holes. Run ribbon into the holes at the neck and waist.
376 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
MOSS EDGING: CROCHET AND BRAID.
For the edge, work as follows, using No. 8o linen thread:
1st row, work i dc. into 2 picots together, 5 ch.; repeat; 2nd row, 2
tr. into center of 5 ch., 4 ch., 2 tr. into same
stitch last tr. was worked into; repeat from the
beginning of the row.
piQ 219. 3^ ^"^w, I dc. between the little scallops,
6 chain; repeat. See figure 319.
more, 2 dc. under next 2 ch.; repeat from the beginning of the row.
For the heading: i dc. into a picot, 2 ch.; repeat.
ch., I tr. into center of cross tr., 2 ch., repeat ^^^- 322.
from the beginning of the row; 2nd row, i dc. under a ch., 3 ch., i dc,
under next ch.; repeat; 3d row, i dc. under 3 ch., 2 ch.; repeat.
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 377
This fancy braid has a long loop, with three small picots at the top.
Work I dc. into the last picot of one cluster and
first of next cluster together, under the center
picot work 3 dc, 3 ch., i dc. into the first, 3 dc.
For the heading: work 2 dc. into picot on the other side of braid 2 ch.;
1st row, 3 tr. into i picot of fancy braid, i ch., pass over i picot and
repeat.
2nd row, I dc. under i ch., 5 ch.; repeat.
ch., pass over 4 stitches, 2 tr. separated by 3 ch., into the next repeat from
* 3 times more; turn.
FIG. 325.
2nG row, 3 ch., 7 tr. under each 3 ch. of last row, 5 tr. under ch. at the
3d row, 5 ch., I tr. under 2 ch., i ch., 2 tr. separated by 3 ch. into center
of 5 tr.,
* 2 ch., 2 tr. separated by 5 ch. into center of 7 ch., repeat from * 4
5th row, like 3d row, repeating from * 5 instead of 4 times; 6th row,
like 2nd row, with 2 more clusters of 7 tr.
8th row, like 3d row, repeating from * only 3 times; repeat from the
2nd row for the length required. See figure 325.
1st row, work down the chain with i half tr. into the last stitch but one,
I tr. into each of 11 next stitches, i half tr. into the next.
2nd row, i dc. into
stitch last half tr. was
worked into, i dc. into
stitch of row.
4th row, 7 ch., 6 half tr. under each loop of ch. of last row, 5 ch., i sc.
into the second and each of 5 next stitches of 7 ch., * i dc. into first half tr.,
4 ch., I dc. into the last of 6 half tr., repeat from * 10 times more.
Work as many patterns as are needed for the length of trimming.
Then to work the edging row and to join patterns, work i dc, 6 half tr.,
and I dc. under each loop of 4 ch., 12 ch.; repeat from beginning of the row.
When working the next and following patterns, draw through the center of
3 first scallops of previous patterns, when working corresponding scallops.
See figure 326.
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 379
shown, and 329 — 6^x7 inches in size — cutting each piece on the double.
Begin at the lower edge of figure 329, using coarse needles. Cast on the
required number of stitches (44 in the model), and knit to and fro as follows:
1st row, * k. i; out of the next stitch work 3, namely, i k., 1 p. and i k.;
repeat from *.
front.
then 14 rows of plain knitting, after which cast off. Turn down the last 13
rows on the wrong side, and catch the cast-off stitches to the foundation
stitches.
Edge the front and bottom of the cape with a crochet edging of 5 rows
as follows:
1st row, by turns, 2 dc. separated by i ch. on the following edge stitch,
edging.
On the other side of the foundation
chain on the middle 16 inches work two
rows like the ist and 2nd of the edging,
then work at full length two row3 like the
last two of the edging.
Turn down the front on the wrong side
along the dotted line, join it to the crown,
then join the cape to both.
FIG. 328. Knit a lining in plain knitting according
to figures 328 and 329, but work the front only from the front edge to the
plain line. Set in the lining, then crochet two rows of dc. around it, and
on these at the front edge set the frill, as illustrated, box-pleated at the top.
i
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 381
pieces —the side of the crown, the back, and the frill which surrounds the
edge.
For the side prepare a stiff
pull a loop through all the loops now on the needle, work off this loop by
pulling another through it, * with a loop on
the needle, take up 4 loops, the first through
the mesh above the group of loops pre-
viously worked off, the second through the
back mesh of the last of the 4 preceding
loops taken up, and the third and fourth
through the next 2 ch. of the foundation,
of 28 stitches, which forms one side edge, and work back and forth in the
same stitch as the side, 4 patterns deep.
382 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
For the frill around the edge make a foundation of 14 ch., and work in
the same stitch as the rest, making a strip three yards long, which edge
along the outer side with a row of scallops, as follows: * i sc. on the next
siitch on the edge, i ch., on the next second stitch work 4 dc, with a picot
between every two of them (for a picot 3 ch. and i sc. around the upper
perpendicular meshes of the preceding dc); repeat from *. Underlay
the back of the crown with foundation muslin, and join the side and back;
fulling the side from the middle to *.
Work a lining for the hood, which consists of a band and a loose crown
piece; for the band make a chain of 70 stitches, and work 5 rows in tricot
around the outer edge, as illustrated. Cover a piece of ribbon wire with
white silk flannel binding, and set it around the inner edge of the hood; at
the front run it into the chain scallops at the front edge of the lining, and
at the back let it cover the edge of the lining.
Trim the hood as illustrated, with twisted bands and bows of white
watered ribbon an inch wide. The two hoods described on pages 379 to 381
may be made of knitting silk instead of wool in which case the linings
make 17 sc. in the back loops of the next 17 stitches. All sc. will be made
in passing the hook in the back loops of the stitch. Make 3 sc. in the
middle one of the last 3 sc. coming together; 16 sc. in the next 16 stitches;
repeat 6 times from *, and then repeat once
more until the 3 sc, worked in one loop,
have been reached.
Fasten the thread and break it.
1st round, 2 sc. in every ch.; 2nd round, 2 sc. around every sc. of the
last round.
3d round, 8 ch., the first 3 will serve as the first dc; alternate 7 times,
I dc. around the second stitch of the last round, 5 ch.; finally i cl. ch. in
4th round, * 3 ch., i dc. in the middle one of the next 5 ch. of the last
round, i cluster of 3 picots. (The picot is made in 5 ch., i sc. in the last
worked dc.)
Make 3 ch., i sc. around the next dc; repeat 7 times from *. Fasten
the thread and break it.
Then work around the edge of the four leaves: * i sc in the thirteenth
sc, counting from the middle end of the leaf; f i ch., i picot (making 5 ch.,
384 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
and I sc. in the first of them; i ch., i sc. in the next point of the leaf; repeat
four times from f, but when coming to the middle stitch of the third picot,
join to the middle stitch of the next picot of the rosette.
Work next i ch., i picot, i ch,, i sc. in the same point in which the pre-
ceding sc. has been worked.
1 1 ch., I picot, I ch,, I sc. in the next point; repeat 3 times from f, join-
ing the ninth picot to the next picot of the next rosette.
Make i ch., i picot, i ch., i sc. in the following fourth stitch; 2 ch., i picot,
joining it to the following picot of the same rosette; repeat 3 times from *,
joining at every repetition the third picot to the next picot of the same
rosette which has been joined last; and at the last repetition, join the ninth
picot to the last picot of the rosette which has been joined first.
In this way one square is already made. Each next square is made in
the same manner, joining the picot of the square to the corresponding picot
of the rosette, as is shown in figure 332,
Then a picot pattern is also worked in the center of the four rosettes,
Starting from the middle stitch of the picot of a rosette, make f 2 ch.,
I picot, 2 ch.; join to the picot of the next rosette (see figure 332); repeat
three times from f. At the last repetition, make i cl. ch. in the stitch from
where one started first, instead of making a slip stitch.
The picot on the point of the leaves has to be joined by another picot
to the corresponding picot on the point of the leaf belonging to the
other square. To do this, start from the middle stitch of the first picot
mentioned, make 2 ch,, then join by i si. st,, 2 ch. and i cl. ch. in the stitch
from where one started. Then work from the next point of the leaf, i ch.,
3 picot, I ch.; join to the cluster picot of the rosette; 2 ch,, i picot, 2 ch,;
join to the opposite cluster picot of a rosette; i ch,, 3 picot, i ch,; join to
the corresponding picot of the leaf belonging to the opposite square; 2 ch.,
I picot, 2 ch., I cl. ch. in the stitch from where one started.
This pattern is very effective carried out in dainty colored Scotch linen
crochet thread No, 70, or in knitting silk, while if cheaper materials are
required, fine macrame cord will give very pretty effects.
If a bedspread and sham of this pattern be considered too much work
TABLE MATS.
The set consists of six mats three sizes of two each and look best — —
when crocheted with No. 9 macrame twine. The directions given are for
the smallest size.
For the next size commence with 20, and the largest with 24 stitches.
1st row, make a chain of 16 stitches; miss the i6th ch. stitch; work i
sc. in next 14 ch, stitch; 2 sc. in next 15th; i sc. in following 14 stitches on
the other side of the ch.; fasten in first sc. of this row.
2nd row, turn; i ch, stitch, i sc. in last sc. of last row, passing the hook
in the back loop of the stitch; 2 sc. in next; i sc. in following 12 sc; 2 sc.
4th row, turn; i ch. stitch; i sc. in next 3 sc; 2 sc. in fourth; i sc. in next
14; 2 sc. in 15th; I sc. in next 3; 2 sc. in fourth; i sc. in next 3; 2 sc. in
fourth; i sc. in next 14; 2 sc. in 15th; i sc. in next 3 sc. Fasten as before.
Continue working the following rows in the same manner, always wid-
ening with 2 sc. in one of the sc. belonging to the last widening,
BORDER TO MAT.
1st round, make 2 ch. stitch, which will serve as i dc; i dc in next
stitch. Alternate to the end of round; 2 ch. stitch; 2 dc in third and fourth
stitch of the edge of the mat.
2nd round, work 6 dc. around the chain of 2 of last round, fastening
every time in the middle of the 2 dc. of last round.
386 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
CROCHETED DOLL.
Materials: double zephyr; bone hook, as small as can be conveniently
used.
Commence at the waist with thirty-six chain stitches; dc. the ist row;
taken through the two loops of the chain, not the single one, as in ordinary
crochet.]
Divide in three parts for the back and two fronts, 12 stitches on each
front and 16 across the back; 3 are left under each arm. For the back,
work four rows without increase.
5th row, add one at each end of the row; 6th row, without increase.
7th row, as the 5th; 8th row, without increase.
9th row, increase as the 5th, making 22 stitches lOth row, without increase.
;
5th row, add one stitch at the arm, keeping the front edge straight.
6th row, without increase.
7th row, add i, making it 14; 8th row, without increase.
9th row, add i; loth row, without increase.
Commence at the front and work across both fronts and the back, join-
ing them at the shoulder. Crochet back; narrow at each shoulder at the
14th stitch (counting from the front edge) every other row until you have
27 sfitches.
For the collar crochet a row across and back, leaving two stitches each
side of the front.
For the skirt commence at the waist, work a row across the whole waist
then back to the center of the back; work back again 12 stitches; next row
knit 11; each row one less until you have 6 (observe that this narrowing is
at one side —the center is kept straight). Work the other side of the skirt
similarly.
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 387
For the sleeve commence at the wrist with 12 stitches — four rows with-
out increase. Add i stitch at each end of every other row until you have
24 stitches and 16 rows, not stripes. [A stripe is two rows.] Work 6 rows,
leaving off 2 stitches at each end; this adds 3 stripes to the 16 for the long-
est part of the sleeve. Crochet the sides together on the wrong side and
sew in the arm-hole. Crochet a row around the wrist with black, with pale
pink or flesh-colored single zephyr. Work the hand in the form of a small
mitten: work two or three rows; divide in half and narrow it off in two
places every row. Close at the end, join together as in a mitten.
The jacket is worked in red. Now, with black, work a row all around
the collar fronts and skirt. It is best to cut a doll down to fit; slip the
jacket on, crochet together down the front; sew three small gilt buttons on
each side, two at the back and one on each sleeve.
For the pantaloons make 36 stitches for the waist; work back and forth
as in the jacket.
1st row, widen one stitch at each hip and in the center of the back;
2nd row, without increase.
3d row, similar to ist; 4th row, like 2nd.
5th row, increase two stitches in the center of the back only; 6th row,
without increase.
7th row, like the 5th. Continue thus until you have 50 stitches. Make .
14 rows. Break the wool and tie it at the hip; work 20 stitches; work back
18, leaving one off at each end. Next row, 16 and back 14. Tie the wool
in front, work a row across all around, taking in the slope formed by the
added rows; work back.
For the leg, divide in the center of the seat, 25 stitches on each leg.
Work three rows; narrow at each end of the 4th row; work 3, narrow; thus
until you have 20 stitches. The leg is 24 rows or 12 stripes long. Crochet
together on the wrong side, turn them on the right side; with black double
zephyr crochet a row around. Thus with red single zephyr you make the
stockings; you can stripe them, if preferable. Make 10 rows; reduce from
20 to 18.
For the boot take black double zephyr. Work two rows without in-
crease; in the 3d row you widen two stitches each side of one center stitch.
You proceed thus until you make the foot as long as you require, say eight
26
38S DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
rows; then work one row without increase. Join the two sides together;
work a row of black above the red stocking.
It is better to use a doll's body instead of stuffing the crocheted form,
as it prevents stretching and is much more durable. A rubber or china head
can be used, as preferred.
over, k. 3.
The 2nd and alternate rows are alike: i. e. knit plain until there are
only 5 stitches on the left needle; then over twice, p. 2 together, k. 3.
over, k. 3.
over, si. I, narrow, slip the slipped stitch over the one last knitted; then
over, k. i, narrow, over, narrow, k. 2.
15th row, like the 13th. Repeat from the ist row.
PORCUPINE STITCH.
Cast on in twelves, ist row, plain.
over, k. 4; repeat.
7th row, p. 3 together, p. 4, over, p. i, over, p. 4; repeat.
8th row, like 7th; gth row, like 6th; loth row, like 7th.
Repeat from second row. Very pretty.
join in top of three ch. with si. stitch and break off thread.
For the squares, make 9 ch., i sc. into any stitch of the circle, holding
the wrong side of the wheel towards you, * turn and work back and forth
upon the 9 ch., making 8 rows of sc, always taking up the back thread of
stitch, to make the ridge, i ch. at the end of every row. When the 8 rows
are finished, make 9 ch., i sc, into the eighth stitch of the circle from that
last worked into. Repeat from * until there are six squares, join the cor-
ner of the last square to the corner of the first with si. stitch, and break off
the thread.
390 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
the point of a square, 9 ch., i tr. between the
1st round, (I sc. into
of round. There should be
squares, 9 ch.) 6 times; si. stitch into first sc.
12 loops of 9 ch., making 108 ch. in all.
stitch; turn.
2nd round, i sc. into every stitch of last round, join with si.
FIG. 334.
5th round, 4 ch., *, skip one stitch, i dc. into next stitch, i ch. and repeat
* all around last row, join with si. stitch in third stitch of 4 ch. at the begin-
ning, making 54 spaces around.
6th round, 3 ch., i dc, 2 ch., 2 dc, into first space, * ch. of 5, skip 2
spaces, 2 dc, 2 ch., 2 dc. in third space and repeat from * all around, join
with si. stitch in top of 3 ch. at the beginning.
7th round, 3 ch., i dc, 2 ch., 2 dc. in middle of shell made in row pre-
vious, * 3 ch., catch with sc in middle of 5 ch., 2 dc, 2 ch., 2 dc. in middle of
next shell and repeat from*; when finished there should be 18 shells around.
8th round, like 7th row. When done fasten and break off the thread.
pattern.
Shell pattern is worked as follows: Draw up a loop through each of
5 successive stitches, draw through all the loops on the hook, close the
cluster with one chain, * draw up a loop through last chain, another through
back perpendicular loop of last stitch, and one through each of the two
next stitches of chain, draw through all the loops on the hook together,
close with one chain, repeat from * to the end of row.
The wool is broken off at end of each row, and every row is commenced
from the same side. Work 5 inches without increase or decrease, that is
until you reach the under part of arm-hole.
For the left half of back, work on one-quarter of the stitches for 3
inches, then decrease for the shoulder, by working all but the last shell at
the end of each row for i^ inch more. Work across the front for 3 inches,
then decrease at the beginning and end of each row for 15^ inch more.
The right front is worked like the left, but the decrease is made at the
beginning of the row instead of the end.
For the sleeves, make a chain 8 inches in length, work in shell pattern
for 8 inches, shape the top of the arm by leaving one shell pattern on each
side unworked for three rows. Sew the sleeve together on the wrong side,
sew up the shoulders, and sew in the sleeves.
392 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
For the skirt: ist row, into the edge of bodice work 2 tr., separated
by 2 ch., into every other stitch.
2nd row, 2 tr. separated by 2 ch. under 2 ch.; 3d and following rows,
2 tr., 2 ch., and 2 tr. under
2 ch., I ch.; repeat from
the beginning of the row.
When the skirt is the
length required, for the
edge, into the last row,
work I dc. into a stitch *,
^^^
Fi<j-
^^- and in the same place '
335'
on the right side, press the stitches apart and work two buttonholes.
2nd round, 2 dc. under 2 ch., 4 ch., draw through the top of last dc, 2
dc. under same 2 ch. the last were worked under, i dc. into top of tr.; repeat
from the beginning of the round 7 times more.
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 393
In working the next and following rosettes work i half tr. into 2 scal-
lops of previous rosette when working last round (see figure 336). The
FIG. 336.
method of joining the rosettes to form the corners will be clearly seen from
the illustration.
For the heading, work i tr. into center of the first scallop at the top of
rosette, 4 ch., i tr. between 2 scallops, 6 ch., i double tr. between 2 next
scallops, 12 ch., I sc. into each of 2 next stitches of scallop, 5 ch., i sc. into
336), 5 ch., I sc. into seventh of 12 ch. and each of 2 following stitches, 4
ch. *, 3 tr. separated by 5 ch. into next rosette (see design), 5 ch., i quad-
ruple tr. into depth between 2 scallops, work off 2 loops, i double tr. into
next stitch but i, work off 3 loops, work 2 double tr. into corresponding
place of next rosette, work off all the loops, 6 ch., repeat from last * until
you reach the next corner, which must be worked as directed for first
corner.
2nd row, i tr. into a stitch, i ch., repeat.
CROCHETED SKIRT.
The design shown here is one of the prettiest, as well as the best fitting
we have seen. As it is fitted to the figure there is no extra fullness about
the hips and waist, and it is light and warm.
Materials: Germantown wool —
skeins of blue and 4 of drab; coarse
tricot needle.
Repeat from * until you have 6 broad stripes of drab and 6 of the blue, and
then join together. In making the flounce, the following directions must
be exactly followed: (See page 382 for afghan stitch.)
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 395
1st row, plain tricot; after that make i chain at beginning of each row
to form an extra stitch, and leave off a stitch at end of each row, keeping
the same number of stitches all the time, but giving the flounce a bias
appearance. Fasten yoke to flounce with chain of 5 stitches, caught first
1st and 2nd rounds, k.; 3d round, bring the wool forward, k. i in the
front, I at the back, and again i in the front of next stitch, making 3 stitches
in I, put the 3 stitches back on the left-hand pin, knit them, put them a
second time back, and knit them, bring the wool forward, k. 3; repeat from
the beginning of the round.
4th round, k.; 5th round, cast off 4, k. 3; you will have 4 stitches on
right-hand needle; repeat from the beginning of the round.
6th round, k.; 7th round, k. 2 before beginning the raised pattern as
described in 3d round, this makes the patterns lie between those of 3d
round; end the round with wool forward, k. i. Continue to work as
described, until you have 9 raised patterns in a diagonal line.
For the next round, k. 5, make i by bringing the wool forward, repeat,
2nd row, k. i, p. 26, k. i. Repeat these 2 rows until you have worked
18 rows.
—
stitches, until there are left but i top and i bottom, k. these 2 together,
For the crochet trimming round the top work with wool:
KNITTING AND CROCHETING. 397
1st round, i double into a stitch, i ch., pass over i stitch, 3 tr. each
separated by i ch. into next stitch, i ch., pass over i stitch and repeat all
round.
2nd round, with silk, i double into each stitch. For the line below the
scallops, with silk, work i double into each stitch.
For the rosette, with silk, make a chain of 14 stitches, turn, work i
double, 3 tr., and i double into each of 3 stitches, i double, 4 tr., and i
double into each of 4 stitches, i double, 5 tr., and i double into each of 5
stitches. Roll the work round, with the smallest scallops in the center,
sew securely at the back of work, and sew to the toe of boot. The ribbon
round the ankle is sewn to the boot at the back, and is tied in front.
watch cases, scarf bags, and boxes are made in this manner. Very pretty
covers for square bottles may be made from almost any design given in
this chapter. A piece, large enough to go around the bottle, is made from
fine linen crochet thread. Stretch it on a board, and paste with gum arabic.
When dry, paint with gold powder, wet in a medium. The edges should now
be joined together, and a piece of silk gathered into the bottom, when
the cover is ready for the bottle. Small baskets are made in the same
manner. Very pretty effects are obtained by crocheting a pattern of an
I
CHAPTER XVII.
Stay-at-Homes.
There are hundreds of homes of wealth in the country that have not
within them the means of artistic decoration. It may be the mistress has
400 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
passed the period of life when "fancy work" had a charm, she may be a
woman of "ability" who scorns the "little trifles" of life, or it may be
the mother and daughters have, by years of pinching economies, helped to
upbuild that elegant home of brick and mortar, and so have not had time
to give it the home-look of habitations where womanly love and care pre-
sides over all departments. It would be unjust to say that the inmates
of these bare-looking homes do not desire beautiful pictures, graceful
draperies, pretty nick-nacks and all the little touches that help to make
the real home. They do desire these things, as the orders daily received by
the leading upholstery houses in the large cities attest, and here is the
opportunity for the woman who has a love for making beautiful things, and
the time to give to it. She can exchange her brain work, her artistic abili-
ties for the dollars and cents of her wealthier neighbors by taking orders
for making their homes beautiful, "and filling them within the shelter of her
own home."
which, while they may not fit each individual case, can be modified to meet
almost any requirement for doing work at home, generally called "order
work," sometimes including "teaching."
In the place the woman who intends to do "order work" to make
first
it pay, must know what she can do, and must have absolute confidence in her
ability to do it and do it well. People do not care to pay for art work or
decorative work unless it is what it claims to be, therefore the very first step
to take on the road to success is thorough preparation. It is absolutely nec-
cessary that the worker should understand hem-stitching, Roman embroidery,
Kensington embroidery, satin stitch and novelty stitches; she should be
capable of making up the different articles after the work of embroidery
has been completed.
Understanding all the above requirements she should carefully con-
sider her territory, go over every inch of the ground mentally and decide
what articles will be most likely to find sale. The next thing to consider is
the question of
JDAINTY WORK FOR PROFIT. 401
Commenced Samples.
This is a very important point and one upon which depends much, if not
the entire future success of the worker. The item of expense of these
articles is one of serious moment, and in many cases offers almost unsur-
mountable obstacles, but very little can be accomplished without them, and
the difficulty might as well be met first as last. However, there are relative
degrees of cost and some very attractive samples can be gotten up with
little outlay of money, and it is here the writer wishes to give some very
practical words of advice. Stamp a?id cofwneficc only such samples as you think
there is a reasonable chance of selling. For instance: in your mental survey of
the field of possible customers, you have decided that Mrs. A., who has a
"craze" for decorated table linen, and cares little or nothing for articles of
mere ornament, will most likely give you an order
for some doyleys or a
center piece. Your wisest course will be to stamp on fine, firm linen a
design for center piece. The design may be Dresden or Roman embroi-
dery or a conventional design filled with fancy filling stitches, in either case
a section should be neatly worked, then on good brown manila paper
stamp twelve different doyleys to go with the center — this saves spending
the money for the linen for the doyleys and will answer as well.
These articles will make a practical beginning for your samples; but you
have provided for the taste of only one class of customers; there is
sampled or commenced, to show how the work will look when finished, will
afford sufficient working capital for a start, and should not cost to exceed
$2.00. This estimate does not include sufficient embroidery threads to finish.
Do not allow these designs to become common. If you use one design
for a center piece for one customer, do not repeat that design for another
customer in the same neighborhood, or even in the same social circle; no
lady likes to spend money for an article she fondly hopes is the latest thing
in art work, only to find it duplicated on half a dozen tables. The moment
one of yoiir designs is to be had in the shops, discard it. Your only hope
for order work and good pay for same, lies in your ability to give the ladies
something they think cannot be had elsewhere. To keep your designs
exclusive and fresh will require time, care and eternal vigilance, but be sure
it will pay.
DAINTY WORK FOR PROFIT. 403
interested to the extent of ordering the sample finished. Call upon such
first; state clearly, without embarrassment or false pride that you intend to
establish a parlor for private order work, that you will furnish only exclu-
sive designs, and that you wish to secure the lady as a patron; show your
samples, which are bound to interest any woman, no matter how much she
maybe determined not to give you her orders, or how much she may think
there is nothing in the world she needs in your line. The ice once broken,
the matter is easy. Interest grows with every word you utter on the sub-
ject. Be sure to lead the conversation, holding it well in hand, and close
to the line of home beautifying; be enthusiastic, talk of what is being used
for thisand that purpose, discuss bed-room furnishings, suggest novel and
pretty ideas for wall and mantel ornaments, a cushion cover, an ottoman,
any and everything in the line of art work. Be decided in expressing
an opinion as to the relative merits of shading, stitches to be used,
materials — in a word, leave upon the mind of your listener the firm impres-
sion that what you don't know about interior decoration isn't worth con-
sidering, and all the while this should be the truth, for you have no business
in the field unless you are posted, unless you do know that your ideas are
bright, original and practical. An hour spent in such conversation with
the right person is "capital well invested."
The first day's work in soliciting may not result in obtaining any
definite orders (this is hardly probable) but a beginning will have been
404 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
made. The upon will be sure to talk about the work, the ideas
ladies called
you have advanced, and the samples you have shown, and it will not be
long before the seed sown will bear fruit in more orders for decorative
needlework than one pair of hands can well accomplish.
Teaching Embroidery.
If you have the time, it will pay to interest the ladies to do some of their
own embroidery, and to this end classes should be formed, of two or three
ladies for a class, not more, unless you have been accustomed to teaching.
Induce them to commence some than to work on a sampler;
article, rather
and especially is this the case where parties are acquaintances, and may be
friends. The social relation should not be considered in this connection, and
the only successful method is to adopt a rule of procedure to be applied to
all cases, and apply it impartially. Never accept an indeffinite order, as
"my dear Mrs. A. I believe I will have you get me up something for my
dressing case, something pretty!"
"What would you like?"
"Oh, I'm not particular, just anything that would suit you!"
Never be betrayed into filling such an order. Insist upon the name of
the article being specified, the nature of the work, the scheme of color,
the amount of work, cost and nature of materials, and last the price of the
whole when completed. Make a memoranda of the items in the form of
an order, read it to the lady and pass it to her for her signature. This will
preclude the possibility of any mistakes being made, and leave no loop-
hole for misunderstandings to occur when too late to rectify them. Be
DAINTY WORK FOR PROFIT. 405
sure to fill all orders according to agreement, make out a bill for the work
and present when the work is delivered, and insist gently upon payment at
that time; if this is not possible have a definite time set when you are to
call for the amount, and be punctually on hand. Women, as a rule, are apt
to be careless in regard to the payment of such bills, and allow them to run
into indefinite time, but they will none the less be your customers because
you insist upon your rights in a dignified manner.
Where the parties are not known to you insist upon an advance pay-
ment of at least one half the price when the order is taken, and the balance
upon delivery.
Do not work too cheap, neither be exhorbitant in your charges. Make
the estimate of cost upon the time occupied in filling the order; at the rate
of $1.^0 per day is a fair consideration. When possible furnish the embroi-
dery silks, linen or other threads used in your work; by this means you will
always be certain of having correct shading and then, too, the profit on the
same will be an item worth considering at the end of a year, as you will be
able to make arrangements to secure these materials in small quantities of
the wholesale houses.
The chapters on "Shading," "Designing," "Stitches," "Materials,"
"Art Embroidery," including "Roman Embroidery," "Kensington and
Satin Embroidery," "Application of Stitches," and "Drawn Work," con-
tain all the instructions necessary to thoroughly equip one for "Order
Work," without the aid of a teacher, if even the learner has had no pre-
vious instructions in embroidery, provided she has any natural aptitude for
the work.
We come now to the second class of women, who need to earn money,
and have an inclination to turn their energies to interior decoration and
artneedlework. For such the "Art Emporium," "Fancy Goods Bazaar,"
or "Decorative Art Store" offer a field that well repays careful cultivation.
The first consideration for such a departure is that of Capital, usually,
a word of discouraging import to women of ambition, as so few women ever
have anything except brain, energy, pluck, faith and hope, to work with;
but even the want of capital can, in a measure, be overcome by good bus-
406 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
iness ability. Of course there must be some ready money, but the amount
actually necessary can be brought down to quite modest proportions, pro-
vided, always, one knows how to go to work, and has a good reputation at
home for integrity and honesty of purpose in all the relations of life.
In opening a store for the sale of any line of merchandise there are
many things to be considered, but most important of all is that of location;
and in no other business is it more important —we had almost said as im-
portant — as in that of decorative art supplies. Women are creatures of
impressions as well as of impulses, and in the matter of patronizing art stores
it is certainly true. A good field for a lucrative trade may be utterly ruined
simply by having the store on the wrotig side of a street, or because it is
located next to some objectionable place, that has been put under the ban
of the fair ones of the town. Then, in selecting a store, give the matter
earnest consideration; stand upon a corner near the location you prefer on
a fine day and watch the pedestrians; note especially the lady shoppers
and the side of the street they affect; note also the particular locality on
the chosen side they longest linger, and most congregate, and there pitch
your tent, if possible, even if the obtainable location there does not offer
half the conveniences to be had elsewhere. Better stay out of business
than locate it on the wrojig side of the street, or on the wrong street, for that
matter. The location secured, the next step to consider is the proper
Store Fittings.
made by any carpenter, and common pine will do for the frame work. The
case should reach almost to the ceiling, and should be lined inside with tar
paper, for the purpose of keeping out moths; brass hooks should be placed
at intervals around the inside of case, and at different heights, for the purpose
of suspending articles. There should be suspended from the top of the
case a few "swings," through which to throw handsome fabrics, embroi-
dered or not. The swings allow of most graceful arrangements, but they
should not be so placed as to interfere with the view of articles hung on
the back wall of the case. The doors should be paneled with glass, and
the frame stained or ebonized. Very pretty show cases, nickel trimmed,
can be purchased for almost any price from ;gi2 to $2^, and of these there
should be at least three, as they help to give an air of "fullness" to the
establishment. For the show windows there should be several side brack-
ets, to fasten to the window frame, one or two small stands that can be
placed in the window for the purpose of displaying scarfs, covers, etc., two
or three swings for each window, and two small easels, which can be pur-
chased for 50 cents each.
The store room should be divided in the rear so as to enclose a space
for a work room. This is quite necessary, and the partition should be strong
and have a door that can he fastened, when necessary. Do not be deluded
into using screens or a curtain draped on a pole for this purpose. The
work room should never be opened to the public — and above all to favored
customers; it should be kept sacred to the "secrets of the trade." It is
here that stamping, embroidery and finishing articles should be carried on,
and the worker should not be subject to the interruptions of the idle and
curious. This partition should be made of good matched stuff and stained,
and will offer a good surface for the display of such articles as will not be
injured by exposure. The wall case should occupy one of the sides of the
room. In front of it should be a couple of chairs or footstools and a small
stand. On the opposite side of the room should be arranged shelves, in
front of which place two of the show cases. Across the end of the room,
in front of the partition, place another case; then the room will be covered
on three sides with show-case display, and the front windows will be
reserved for street display.
408 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
This arrangement is especially desirable when the stock to be carried
is limited, and a good appearance is to be made with the smallest possible
outlay of money. The store fittings decided upon, the next question is
the one of
as the same rule will not apply to hardly any two localities that could be
named. The goods that will find readiest sale and yield best profits
If the location has a good farming country tributary to it, then such
goods must be carried as will appeal to that class, and ideas and styles that
are a little old in the cities will find readiest sale. If, however, you intend
to depend upon town trade, almost exclusively, then your stock must con-
tain the latest novelties in work and material; but happy is the dealer whose
trade combines both these classes.
There are certain things that an art store should always be supplied
with, as follows: embroidery needles, hoops or frames, embroidery silks,
all sizes and shades, embroidery linen, embroidery cotton, knitting silk,
wools, gold threads, couching cords, German cord, stamping patterns and
chenilles and arrasenes* if the trade calls for them. These articles are
staple, and are as necessary to the art supply dealer as flour and sugar are
to the stock of a grocer.
In putting in a stock of silk or linen threads select the make that you
wish to carry, and put in a complete line of that manufacture, selecting the
different sizes, and a good variety of shades in complete lines. Thus, if
you buy rope silk in pink, put in the entire line of pink shades; this rule
applies to the rope silks, filo floss and royal floss. In etching and
heavier twist silks close shading is not so necessary, and only such shades
should be carried in stock as are commonly called for, as yellow (different
shades), red, pink, blue, brown, green and white. The same applies to linen
threads. For a description of these materials see chapter on "Materials."
Never allow your stock of embroidery threads, of whatever kind, to become
depleted; keep the shades full and complete. Never allow a customer to
ask for a shade or color that you cannot supply, and at once, without wait-
ing to order from your jobber. And above all things never mix your stock
DAINTY WORK FOR PROFIT. 409
of silks and linens by adding to it from the stock of other silk and linen
manufacturers than the one you first selected. Their materials may be as
good, the colors as fast, but no two manufacturers ever produce the same line
of shades, and it is fatal to mix them. If for any reason you become dissatis-
fied with the goods you are handling, close them all out before you make a
change, and when you are ready put in a full and complete line of the new
goods.
Art Fabrics.
Art fabrics can be purchased from most of the jobbers in quantities as
small as half a yard. Where the capital will allow, it is a good plan to
purchase 10 yards good fine linen, 40 inches wide; 10 yards same quality, 18
inches wide; 2 yards satin damask, 72 inches wide; 2 yards silk bolting;
2 y^, yards No. 6 and the same amount No. 4 Bargarren art cloth, in cream
white; 25^ yards cotton tapestry; i y^ yards ecru art linen; 2 yards linen
lawn for doyleys; one table cover; i y^ yards square, mail /cloth; one table
cover, same size, of double-faced sateen. As these are high-priced fabrics,
they will give an air of elegance to the stock. The above materials should
be in addition to the commenced or made-up samples.
Ask your dealer to supply you with a sample book of art fabrics, from
which your customers can select, when the goods may be ordered after the
sale is made.
We now come to the dressing of the store —to i\\& samples of work; and
here lies the key-note of success or failure.
will herself do the work of embroidering and making up the various arti-
410 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
cles, and that her purchases for display samples will have been made at
wholesale:
List of Desirable Samples.
linen, in colors. For the pillow sham, good domestic linen; for the bed-
spread. No. 6 Bargarren art cloth, homespun linen or art tapestry; for
the toilet cushions, fine linens and China silk; for the doyleys and center
pieces, good, firm linen of a fine quality; for the tea cloth, satin damask.
Chair rests may be made from soft silk and linen lawn. Dressing case
DAINTY WORi: FOR PROFIT. 411
In making up the table cover, stamp the corners with a floral conven-
tional design, as these are more popular than the geometric patterns. Work
one cornter complete in short and long stitch with rope silk, being careful
to shade properly — according to directions for Shading given in Chapter VII.
If there is time, and the cost of the extra silk no inconvenience, this piece
should be finished and lined, when it could be displayed on a table or
hung on the back of the wall case in such manner as to show all the work.
The table scarf may be made of Bargarren art cloth, plush or basket
silk. Both ends should be stamped. Work one end in a floral design,
with conventional shading in solid Kensington stitch, the other end may
be treated with a conventional design, outlined, and filled over the surface
with fancy filling stitches. — See chapters on "Stitches" and "Application of
Stitches."
Bed furnishings are subjects in which almost every woman is inter-
ested, therefore the sample bedspread and pillow shams should be under-
taken with much thought and care. We might suggest a number of artistic
sprays, with large petaled flowers and generous foliage. Work a good por-
tion of the spread — at least one-quarter—with Bargarren art thread, in out-
line stitch, or short and long stitches; or, if the twilled linen is selected for
the spread, the design can be worked out with rope linen. Finish the side
edges of the spread with a handsome crocheted edge, made of Scotch cro-
chet linen thread No. 50— figure 336, on page 393, in the chapter on "Knit-
ting and Crochet," will furnish a beautiful design for this purpose. Such
an edge will be the means of selling crochet threads of various kinds, in
the scarf should be displayed over a quilted or tufted mat, made to just fit
the top of dressing case. The mat should be made of China silk, the same
color as the threads used to embroider with.
A toilet set of bottles and mats should be made, and for a model for
this purpose see page 84, chapter on "Art Embroidery." Ideas for center
piece, doyleys, mats, cushions, see chapters on "Dainty Trifles" and "Art
Embroidery." The doyleys and mats should be completed, as they do not
show to advantage sampled. The following is an approximate estimate
of the
Cost of Commenceci Samples.
Table cover, 54 inches square, mail cloth ;^3 00
Silks for sampling on corner . 40
Silk for completing embroidery , , i 60
Lining and cord for edge finish i 55
Cost, complete $6 55
$2 GO
$3 60
Shams to match $ 75
Linen thread, for sampling 30
^i 05
DAINTY WORK FOR PROFIT. 413
One Dressing case scarf of linen, with edge and ends hem-
stitched $ 75
Silk, for sampling 25
$1 00
$A 00
$2 75
Si 5 00
$1 75
Window Display.
In the estimate given for samples, there has been nothing listed that will
not find ready sale, but it is well to have a show piece —that is, a novelty for
414 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
show window; also to serve as an indication of the skill of the needlC'
worker. For this purpose there is nothing that will so well serve the pur-
always be scores of admirers for any well-made sample of it. It would be well
to have two or three different samples, so as to change the window at-
traction occasionally. Lessons for making all kinds of raised work will be
found in the chapter on "Raised Embroidery," with amount of material
required for any given design. The samples having been disposed of, the
next question is that of
STOCK.
The question of the quality of stock to be carried must depend upon
the class of customers, to some extent, though a clever dealer will be able
to sell almost anything upon which she sets the seal of her approval. The
amount of stock to be carrieb will depend upon the requirements of the
trade, the amount of capital at her command or the "credit" she may be
able to obtain.
It is better to put in a small line of materials first, and add to them as
the demand is made. A full and complete line of embroidery linen threads,
and the same of embroidery silks, should be carried, and the assortment of
shades should be kept complete. This part of the stock is necessarily ex-
pensive at the start, but it is to an art bazaar what flour is to the grocer, and
must be carried. There is, however, a fair margin of profit on it, and deco-
rative needlework cannot be done without it.
A line of wash silks, including etching.rope, filo floss and royal floss
sage green, white, old rose, baby blue and heliotrope, will most likely be
:
sufficient for a start. These silks are put up in 5^ oz. bunches to a color,
each Yz oz. containing 22 skeins of etching silks. Thus it will be necessary
to purchase 24 ounces of etching silks to secure four shades each of the
colors mentioned, this, at a rough estimate, will cost ;Si7.20.
Filo floss is used for solid Kensington, long and short stitch, etc., and
more shades will be necessary. The following colors and shades are desir-
able: Yellow, from pale canary to deep orange, twelve shades in all, y^ oz.
of each; old rose, five shades; olive green, six shades; sage green, five
shades; golden brown, seven shades; wood brown, six shades; heliotrope,
five shades; lavender, four shades; baby blue, nine shades; rose pink,
three shades; cardinal red, ten shades; white, three ounces. The outlay
for the stock of filo floss will amount to ^38.00, approximately.
Rope silk will stand next in importance, though the shading need not
be quite so finely graded. The colors should include yellow, from canary
to orange, twelve shades; olive green, six shades; golden brown, seven
shades; lily green, five shades; old rose, five shades; old blue, five shades;
baby blue, four shades; rose pink, three shades; red, ten shades; wood
brown, five shades; white. The stock will cost about $25.60.
If it is decided to carry a line of linen embroidery threads, it will be
necessary to put in a stock of the four sizes, viz.: Bargarren art thread,
rope linen, linen floss No. 4, and linen floss No. 8 (for description of various
stands as follows
4i6 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIf.
Store furnishings $ lOO
Commenced samples 38
Stock of embroidery silks 80
Stock of embroidery linens 48
Stock of knitting silks, crochet linens, various needles, stuffed
cushions, gold threads, etc 60
Stock of piece goods, linens, etc 30
Total $ 3 56
Empty boxes should fill the top of the case of shelves lining one wall,
while on the lower shelves the yarns, crochet threads, piece goods, etc.,
may be displayed. One show case should be attractively filled with the
various kinds of embroidery silks, one with the linen threads, while the
wall case and one show case should be reserved for commenced samples
and made-up trifles.
The windows should be dressed with such articles as can stand the light,
and that can easily be cleaned from dust. If it is decided to carry a stock
of materials for decorative painting, an attractive display can be made
from that stock; stamped linens, such as shams, tea cloth, doyleys, towels,
etc., will always attract attention, and can be procured at a very small outlay,
while a pretty jardinere of artificial paper flowers will lend a bit of needed
color to the display, and, as mentioned above, a piece of raised embroidery
is a potent factor in attracting attention to the store.
In giving a list of materials for stock, only staple articles have been
included, such as will sell at any season of the year, and every year. There
are, however, novelties brought out each season, by the different manu-
facturers, and it is owing to the introduction of these that interest in fancy
work is kept alive, so one cannot afford to ignore the "novelti'es," though
they must be handled with caution, as a left-over stock of out-of-date
that vexes often the veteran dealer; how, then, shall the beginner protect
herself ? The surest and, indeed, only safe way is to buy spamigly of any
novelty, no matter how desirable it may seem. It will be found much
DAINTY WORK FOR PROFIT. 41;
easier to order more, than to dispose of it after the "run" is over. In general,
such things as paper flowers, painted novelties, embroidery threads, that
are not in themselves artistic or adapted for artistic work, should be pur-
chased with caution, though in the matter of paper flowers justice compels
us to admit they have obtained such a hold upon the public, that the
materials for making them are carried by all first-class houses. Each
dealer must decide for herself what she can best carry in stock, and she
can decide only by experimenting with her trade, therefore, the best the
writer can do for the beginner is to utter the warning words, which should
be used as a motto when the ever-persuasive salesman is abroad in the
land: "Caution! Buy Sparingly!" Indeed, it would not be a bad idea to
have the quotation printed in large letters and placed in the office desk,
where the eye of the dealer will be sure to rest upon it when making out
orders.
On the other hand, do not be afraid to put in novelties as they come out,
largest profits. The writer calls to mind an energetic little lady in a far
western town who started a modest art bazaar with limited means, and still
more limited experience. As a matter of course, she stocked up beyond
the capacity of the home trade, and, in consequence, found herself, as she
naively expressed it, "stuck with a lot of stuff, and not a cent to turn
around with." If she had not money, she soon demonstrated the fact that
she had plenty of "mother wit." She had an interview with the publisher
of the local paper, and the result was that each week appeared two columns
of matter on "Fancy Work," describing the most ravishing toilet sets,
daintiest of doyleys, pillow shams, and numberless odds and ends, until
every woman in the county was fired with the determination to do fanc}-
work, or die in the attempt; but the business came in here — each issue
contained a local notice to the effect that Mrs. C was prepared to fur-
4i8 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE^ AND PROFIT.
ni^ materials for making each and every article described in the article on
"Fancy Work," besides many new and beautiful designs not described; also
work stamped and conamenced, with proper shades of silks selected, and
mailed to any address. The result? In three months her stock was reduced,
she had working capital and, better than all else, was known in every corner
of her own county, and in many surrounding towns. All the foregoing
apropos to advertising. Of course, in the limits of the present article,
the writer cannot follow the dealer through all the vicissiti^des of a first
venture; the most that can be done will be to put up warning signs along
the way, wherever pitfalls are likely to trip the unwary.
Stamping Patterns.
This part of the outfit was purposely left out of the list of stock articles,
as we wished to discuss it by itself. Stamping patterns are the most im-
portant part of the equipment of an art bazaar or fancy goods store. There
must be a supply sufficient for a large variety of work, but here must go up
another "warning post" — "Do not purchase too many patterns in a season."
The foundation stock must include designs for doyleys, five-o'clock tea
cloths, tray cloth, caraffe mats, table mats, lunch sets, shams, bedspreads,
curtains, cushions, large and small; dressing case and side board scarfs, and
table covers, but do not purchase for a certain purpose more than three
different patterns. There must be at least three sizes of alphabets and one
monogram, with an assortment of designs for satin stitch on flannel, cash-
mere, etc., including several scallops with corners. Such a supply of designs
can be purchased for $20, together with a large blank book of strong
manila paper. On the pages of this book stamp all the designs and num-
ber them in consecutive order, marking the same number on the pattern.
This book is for your customers to select designs from. They should
never be allowed to handle the pattern itself. In fact, the pattern should
be kept in the work room, spread out flat, without creasing, in a drawer or
^ box. The patterns should be added to, a few each season. As soon as
received, they too should be added to the design book and numbered.
Remember that new designs are always a good investment; also remember
that a few at a time and often will do more good than many and far apart
in the season of their purchase. Nearly all large patterns for bedspreads
curtains, table covers, etc., come in sections, and as many ladies have not
DAINTY WORK FOR PROFIT. 419
the power of imagining kow it will look when put together, it will be found
a very excellent plan to paste sheets of manila paper together, until a piece
the size of a large table cover has been obtained. On this stamp the design
clearly, and display, either window or wall
in the case. Do not display too
many at one time, but change them frequently. In fact, this advice may
be applied to all the display articles — overcrowding of
window or show a
case is never desirable. A few articles, frequently changed, will be much
more effective; also one or two strong pieces in a show window something —
that can be seen at a glance, that will stand out, strong and distinct —will be
far more attractive than a window crowded with a miscellaneous assortment
of small novelties, no matter hov* pfetty they may be in themselves. The
window should be changed at least once each week, carefully putting out of
sight for a couple of weeks the articles that have been used, when they may
be again brought out.
One of the first problems that will confront the woman who intends
opening a fancy goods bazaar will be the question: Where to obtain the
stock. As a rule women out of business know very little about such things
and other women in the business are apt to be rather non-communicative
on the subject. We cannot name any firms in the pages of this book, but
the manager of almost any large retail dry goods stores will be perfectly
willing to give the needed information. It is better to buy of the manu-
facturers when possible, though for some reasons it is more convenient to
purchase of a general jobber who carries all the different articles needed.
Nearly all wholesale houses have catalogues, which they will send upon
request. Much information can be obtained from them, though it must be
understood that the lowest prices and best terms are never printed in them.
The "getting ready" to begin business should not be rushed through.
Plenty of time should be allowed for getting samples ready and stock
selected, and the venture should be made at the beginning, not at the end,
of a season. The best season for this trade is from the middle of Septem-
ber to the middle of January, and from the 1st of April to the last of June.
The time between the seasons can be profitably filled in by making up fresh
samples, novelties for holiday sales, and the formation of classes in em-
broidery. There need not be a week, nor a day, when the dealer shall not
make a margin of profit, if the right kind of energy is given to the business.
28
420 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
Bed draped with five yards china blue Waban netting. The spread,
a section of which is shown, is made of Roman twill linen, the design is a
cowslip blossom resting on a leaf of its own foliage scattered over the sur-
face. Scotch linen floss in three shades of green and three shades of yellow
will be required. Use short and long stitch for the leaves and solid Ken-
sington for the flowers. Finish edge of spread with reticella crochet lace
made of Real Scotch linen crochet thread, No. 36.
DAINTY WORK FOR PROFIT. 421
The pages of this book contain all the various lessons for making all
kinds of decorative articles needed in a general art store, and any lady who
wishes to open a bazaar for decorative needlework need not spend a dollar
for lessons, nor waste time and money in further experiments, if she will
but study carefully what we with great care have preparedfor her guidance.
For the benefit of that class of women who need actual illustrations of
every step to be taken, we show on pages 257 to 308 several articles that
may be made up to add to window and show case attractions. They will
>)e found ready sellers at any season and afford also a pleasing variety.
Following are the descriptions and numbers of the several articles.
Toilet Set.
Figure 271 illustrates a beautiful toilet set that is easy of construc-
tion and decoration, and not expensive. The cushion is about twelve inches
across, square in shape, and stuffed quite high. The cushion should first be
covered with a plain covering of pale blue satin, or China silk. The four
corners should be finished with large, loose bows of the same colored silk,
fringed at the ends. As the entire effect of the cushion depends upon the
arrangement of these bows, care should be taken to follow the illustration ^s
closely as possible. The bows should almost meet on the four sides of
cushion. For the center, cut a square of bolting silk to just fit the top of
cushion, and over the entire surface paint conventional daisies, as shown in
illustration, painting with gold paint the outlines of the design. The inner,
star-shaped portion of each flower should be painted with two or three
shades of blue in water colors, while the exact center should be of deep
yellow. The same idea should be carried out on the bottles, which are first
covered with the silk and afterward with the painted bolting silk.
Tobacco Pouch.
Figure 274 shows a tobacco pouch made of chamois skin. The pouch
is four inches wide and eight inches long. The side seam is decorated
with three ribbon bows and the bottom is embroidered with a fringe made
by slashing a piece of the chamois into one-quarter inch strips. To pre-
pare the fringe, select a smooth piece of chamois three inches deep and as
wide as the pouch. Paint it all over with liquid gold, and then slash,
as previously described, to a depth of two and one- half inches. This will
leave a half-inch of material for a heading. The neck of the pouch should
have a draw string of one-inch ribbon. The design in illustration is a con-
ventional arrangement, which will look well carried out in brown, with
a glint of gold and dash of crimson, relieved with touches of deep, cool
green, worked out with oil colors.
olive green wash filo floss, gathered exactly on the point of the
corner. Over this is arranged another scarf of China silk, of the same
clover pink shade as is used on the top, tied in a loose bow and ends.
Through the bow is run a cord and tassel of a lighter shade than the silk.
Over the four corners is now placed a half circle of glassine, having the
edges picked out in gold paint, and clover heads painted over the sur-
The bottles are first covered with silk in clover pink shades, and over
the bottom portion of each bottle is placed a cover of glassine, painted
with a design of clovers to match the cushion pieces. The neck of each
bottle is finished with a cord and tassel.
of course, the best for the purpose, but glassine or silk may be substituted.
In case the latter is used it must be lined and also have an inter-lining of
hair wire, both through the panels and the hole in the handle; cover this
fastening with a bow of soft faille ribbon of harmonizing color. Now, when
the parasol is suspended, bottom up, the parchment cover will fall straight
out; therefore, it must be secured in position. The illustration shows
the parasol half open. To secure this effect punch a hole through the edge
of each gore,and run through from one gore to another a heavy silk cord
draw it up until the desired effect is produced, and then pass the ends of
the cord through the hole previously bored in the middle of the handle.
Add another ribbon bow at this point. A cord and tassel finishes the bot-
tom of the handle. Parchment is of a rich, old ivory color, and therefore
a most exquisite background for painting.
Traveling Roll.
Figure 277 illustrates a most convenient traveling roll. The roll is
ing. The edges, where the ends are set in, look best finished with a rich
brown cord sewed on. A handle can be purchased ready made, or one can
be manufactured home by covering a piece of stiffening with soft, brown
at
frill at each end, the edges of which have been fringed out. The center of
the roll has a band of golden brown satin placed over the silk. This center
cover comes to within three inches of each end, and is decorated with a
conventional vine worked out in several shades of golden brown and rose
pink; the ribbon by which it was suspended to the chair is a pale old rose.
The model for the cushion at the lower right hand corner was a square
of gas green velvet, folded to the center to meet a pale sea-shell pink puff
Above this cushion is shown another roll for chair back. Tlic ri>l! In
the niudel was stuffed loosely with sea moss and covered with c:\ar.) col-
426 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
ored India silk, tied at the ends with pale lavender ribbons. The design
is a cluster of pansies looped with ribbon. The pansies were worked out
with pansy purples in filo floss, and the ribbon outlined in a shade of pale,
olive green royal floss.
Over the roll head rest first mentioned is an infant's pillow covered
with a slip of dainty white linen lawn edged with soft snowflake lace, and
decorated in one corner with a single spray of lily of the valley; a dainty
conception.
The next cushion in the group is a leaf shaped head rest, made of cot-
ton cloth and lightly filled with cotton wool and then covered with light
golden brown India silk. The center is veined with pale pink, and the
edges finished with short and long stitch in a deep, golden brown with
royal floss.
Page 114 shows four beautiful and inexpensive drapes, suitable for man-
tel or picture frames. They may be made of any soft clinging fabric, but
China silk is at once most satisfactory and artistic.
Page 138 illustrates two drapes and a table doyley. The first figure
stamped around the edge. The outer edge of petals are worked in short
and long buttonhole stitch, with pale lavender linen floss. The inside of
petals are filled with the different fancy stitches which are so easy to do,
and so effective when well and evenly worked; the filling stitches should
be of the linen floss, of a darker shade of purple than the edges; at least
green with water colors or Paris tints, and then outlined in short and long
stitch with several shades of olive green filo floss, two strands. No two
leaves should be alike. The cloth should be cut away on the ends and
each leaf finished with a tassel of green filo floss.
The second drape is made of pale blue India silk, on each end is a
and outline stitch, a dainty design; for this use pale blue filo floss, one
strand. The edge is then cut out and each point ornamented with a tassel
made of blue and white filo floss. p-
DESCRIPTION OF FULL PAGE ILLUSTRATIONS. 427
Page 141 illustrates four beautiful drapes. The drape shown on the
left hand, upper corner, is of white India silk stamped with a powdered
design of roses and buds with broken bits of foliage. This design should
be very delicately tinted with water colors in pinks, greens and stem
browns, and each part of design lightly outlined with one strand of filo
floss. The stitches must be daintily set and very even; match the silk
against the tinting carefully. Three skeins of filo floss will work the entire
design. The edge should be outlined and finished with green, pink and
brown silk tassels.
The drape on the upper right hand corner is of pale yellow surah silk
of good quality. The design on the ends is a Roman embroidery pattern
worked out with four deeper shades of yellow etching silk; see chapter on
"Drawn Work" and "Lace Stitches" for method of filling in. The edge is
embellished with tassels, made of several shades of yellow royal floss.
The drape at the lower left hand corner is made of pale green India
silk, bordered with a ten inch band of silk bolting, on which is worked a
dainty design of jonquils with foliage wrought with filo floss in white, yel-
low and palest greens. The edge is scalloped, finished with buttonhole
stitch in pale green and ornamented with white, yellow and green silk
tassels.
surah silk, bordered with a band of silk bolting feather-stitched on. This
band is ornamented with a begonia design which is worked out in four
shades of silver green filo floss; finished with tassels of white and silver
fabric made of pure hand spun flax, in its natural color. The spread in the
raised by working over a padding. The shams are worked in the same
manner. The flowers could be worked out in the natural shades of poppy
428 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
reds with equally good effect. This material offers a beautiful background
for Roman embroidery, and spread and shams decorated in this style of
palest shade of lily green. The effect is very light and dainty. The roses
could be done in pale yellow, or pale rose pink, and the ribbon in wood
brown.
Figure No. 4 shows spread and shams of Devonshire art cloth with
design of conventional clematis worked out in solid Kensington with helio-
trope shades of rope silk. Spread and shams are of one piece.
Page 154 illustrates a beautiful cover for a library or dining table. The
material of which it is made is a square of Devonshire Art cloth in real flax
color. The edge is ornamented with an ivy vine worked in outlme stitch
with wood brown Bargarren art linen thread.
The outline stitch should be made very heavy, with a cord-like appear-
ance. Over the surface of the cloth a conventional design is powdered, as
shown in illustration. The leaves of this powdered design are worked in
short and long stitch with rope linen in a lighter shade of wood brown than
that used for the ivy vine. The stem of leaf is made with the darkest
shade of wood brown, in outline stitch. The petals of the design are worked
in short and long stitcsh, for which three shades of wood brown rope linen
are used. The edge is treated in a novel and beautiful manner. A border is
crocheted from linca crochet thread, No. 18, in pure flax color. After the
slicll design has been finished tiny tassels of the same linen are tied into
the edge, forming a heavy fringe.
DESCRIPTION OF FULL PAGE ILLUSTRATIONS. 429
thread: start the design in the edge of leaf as a foundation, and work from
the leaf outward, in any design fancied. The wheels may be crocheted
separately and added afterward if preferred. Often several designs may
be combined in a single edge with excellent effect, the chapter on "Knitting
and Crocheting" contains many designs that can be adapted for this purpose.
most appropriate for this purpose for several reasons. If one has a hand-
some mantel which it would be a pity to cover from sight, and yet needs a
little drapery to ease the room from an effect of stiffness, Waban will,
answer excellently for it; as it will drape gracefully, without concealing all the
beauty of the mantel. On the other hand if the mantel is an eyesore it
will kindly drape and conceal many defects, and take from it the
worst
illustrates still another use of this material. P^or a bamboo or brass easel
no '^rctticr drnpcry cnuld be conceived, It drapes but does not conceal and
430 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
therefore perfectly fulfills the mission of drapery fabrics; three yards will
be necessary to duplicate the drapery shown.
Throughout the pages of "Dainty Work" attention has been given
largely to the decorative necessities and consequently bed linen and table
linen have received a large share of attention. On page 324 is shown one
of a series of table doyleys. These articles of table luxury offer pretty and
easy work for many an idle moment, and will prove no tax on either the
ingenuity or eyesight of the worker. The doyley in question is called the
"Magnolia" The center is made on fine linen huckabuck; the background
is darned through each mesh with a single strand of pale green royal floss.
The flower is outlined lightly with royal floss silk in a creamy white with a
dash of old pink toward the center of petals. The stem is in green worked
solid. The edge is crocheted with pale yellow linen floss, size 4. Any
design for the crochet may be selected that one fancies, but it should not
be of a character too heavy.
Page 322 illustrates the "Maple Leaf" which is exquisitely dainty. The
leaf is stamped on plain white linen, and outlined around the edges with a
buttonhole short and long stitch over a German cord No. 0, in pale green
linen floss. The veins should be outlined with the same material, and the
edge should be crocheted with crochet linen thread No. 50 in cream white.
The design shown is appropriate and is composed of two patterns shown
in the chapter on "Knitting and Crochet."
Page 430 shows the "Dresden" doyley which is stamped on satin
<iamask. The edges are outlined over German cord with white linen floss.
The Dresden flowers are worked in solid Kensington stitch, with pale blue
and pink linen floss with a bit of brown and green for stems and foliage.
The lace is crocheted into the edge of doyley — following the indentations
with pale, blue linen floss No. 4. The picots forming the very edge of
design will be more effective if another shade of blue, one tone deeper than
that for the inside part of design, be used, or, a combination of blue and
white, or pink and white would be artistic, while pure white is always in
good taste.
COLORED PLATES.
Several colored plates have been prepared to further illustrate the sub-
ject of color work, and below are the palettes for painting them in oil col-
432 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
DRAPED CUPBOARD.
DESCRIPTION OF FULL PAGE ILLUSTRATIONS. 433
ors. The plates will serve as "studies," and they may be enlarged or not as
desired. The author is indebted to an artist friend for the following palettes-
The ground for flower painting should be of a creamy white tint, other-
wise most of the colors must be made opaque by the admixture of white, to
cover the tintbeneath; and with the loss of transparency, from the use of
opaque colors throughout the darks and shadows, comes also that of depth
and richness in tone. This is as true of a background as of a flower.
For backgrounds make gray by combining a little of each, rose mad-
der or vermilion, cobalt blue and yellow ocher with a good deal of white
and a very little black. By varying the proportions of colors your gray
will be bluish, greenish, yellowish, or of whatever tone you wish, and eith-
er light or dark, as you choose.
For greens, make with blue and yellow, or use any green you have,
modifying with raw umber, burnt sienna, black, red, or white, as needed.
Lay the tints where they belong, then blend softly to unite their edges.
Let them dry weil before putting in the final markings, for which use a
fine pointed brush, held upright. This rule applies to all the crisp, delicate
lines or dots in leaves, stems or flowers.
Fleur de lis. — Mix
madder or madder lake and cobalt blue
rose
for purple. If you have a creamy white ground to paint on lay in all the
darker tints, some a little reddish, some bluish, and others darkened with a
touch of black, before using any white. Then mix white with any of the
tints already made, using much or little as needed. Match the tints in the
copy, laying them side by side, each in its place, and leave them untouched
until you have finished a flower. Then blend slightly with a dry bristle
brush, just enough to soften the edges of tints together and to break the
lines of brush-marks.
Lay in the white flower and bud with a gray made by adding a little
black to white, using a tint with more black in to shade with. For the
highlights make a creamy tint by adding a little yellow ocher to white.
upper part, shading down into dark reddish brown at the bottom, is very
efifective.
434 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
Oranges. — Draw in with burnt sienna. Pale, deep and orange cami-
um, with any of the browns mentioned above, may be used; or any bright
yellow with vermilion added in the orange parts and white in the high-
lights, will give the desired orange tints, to be shaded with brown.
Poppies. —These can be painted at once with vermilion, rose madder,
white and brown. But much more transparency and beauty of coloring
will be secured by following the method given for the lilies. First, then, a
bright yellow over all except the white or pale pink parts of the red pop-
pies, and when thoroughly dry paint in the reds and browns. Paint the
white poppy with gray of black and white, modeling with the same, as for
fleur de lis, then touch in the other tints.
To darken the lower part of the background add a little brown to your
background gray.
Oak Leaves, Sumac and Golden Rod. — Paint the reds in this plate
of autumn glory as described for lilies and poppies. Add a touch of burnt
sienna or brown, and white if needed, to gray for grasses and stems or
golden rod. For golden rod use any bright yellow and white, with touch
of black: when dry, dot in the delicate touches of color. The strong finai
markings in the sumac '*beds" and oak leaves will require bone brown.
CHAPTER XIX.
SPECIAL ILLUSTRATIONS.
The Tea Cloth shown here is made of fine round-thread linen. The
edge is finished with a fringe, and each of the four corners should have the
design shown repeated. The arrangement shown in the illustration may be
reversed, if desired; that is, the bow of ribbon may be at the bottom instead
of at the top. It is a matter of choice. The stitch used should be solid
Kensington for the flowers and foliage, outline for the stems, and button-
hole point stitch for the ribbon, which may be green or white.
The figures shown on page 435 are suitable for corners of breakfast
napkins or doyleys, and will look well worked out with outline, short and
long stitch, or solid stitch; or a combination of the three would be quite
effective.
SPECIAL ILLUSTRATIONS. 437
THREE-PANEL SCREEN.
This screen is decorated with a design especially adapted for painting.
The frame good suggestion. Any ordinary carpenter can make it,
offers a
and common from knots and blemishes, will answer. The orna-
pine, free
ments shown near the top can be purchased for a trifling sum from any
wood-working shop. After the frame has been put together treat with two
coats of ivory-white English enamel. The panels in the top should have a
thick coating of copal varnish; while wet sprinkle thickly with broken bits
of colored glass, and treat the whole, when dry. with a coat of varnish.
The panels may be painted on sea-grass matting or on canvas.
43^ DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
These designs are having a great revival of popular favor. They are
exquisitely dainty, and may be applied to almost any article. The illustra-
tion above is a border for doyley or center cloth. For center cloth it should
be enlarged five times, while the size illustrated is correct for the doyley.
The work should be solid except the ribbon, which may be done in any
fancy stitch preferred.
440 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
CENTER CLOTH.
The design shown here is very effective, and simple to work. The
material should be fine linen. The pointed scallops look best worked very-
heavy in buttonhole stitch, with white linen floss. The ribbon should be
worked with a delicate lily green, in buttonhole point stitch; the violets in
three shades of purple linen floss, size 8, in Kensington or satin stitch.
SPECIAL ILLUSTRATIONS. 441
BED SPREADS.-FIG. 1.
The beds shown on this and succeeding page are covered with spreads
made of Roman twill linen, decorated with designs that should be worked
in outline and solid embroidery. Figure i hasthe extreme edges worked
in scallops with heavy buttonhole stitch, with white linen floss. The
design in the center is also outlined with a scalloped edge, worked in the
same manner. The scroll above the border edge is effective worked in
white rope linen, in a heavy cording outline stitch. The ferns in the cor-
ner should be worked solid in two shades of green linen floss, size 8. The
ferns in the center should also be worked in the same manner, and the
knots of ribbon should be outlined with white. The same treatment should
be carried out on shams.
Figure 2 shows a bed spread with a spread having a garland of tiny
flowers arranged as an all-round border. The edge of spread should be
worked with buttonhole stitch in scallops, and the garlands in natural color
of linen floss size 8; for the small flowers and foliage use satin stitch; for
the ribbon, simple outline stitch, filling in with a row of darning stitches if
desired. The designs shown on this spread are very popular, and are
being applied to many uses.
442 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT,
BEDSPREAD.-FIG. 2.
BUTTERCUPS. VIOLETS.
DAISIES. FORGET-ME-NOTS.
DOYLEYS.
The four pretty designs for doyleys shown here are one-half the cor-
rect working size. The doyleys should be made on fine white linen, and
the work done in solid Kensington and outline stitches. The effect is also
CENTER CLOTH.
The design shown above is especially suitable for a white linen or lawn
center-piece. As will be seen, it is designed on a circle. The edge is fin-
ished with broad shallow scallops which are to be worked with deep, close
buttonhole stitch with white star floss. The ribbon on which the tiny
baskets are suspended is wrought out in pale green etching silk with out-
line stitch for the edge and a row of feather stitch in the center.
446 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT.
SPONGE BAGS.
These little articles are very convenient for use in the bath room or the
toilet table, and for traveling bags are almost indispensable. They are so
easily made, and the materials for their construction so inexpensive that
they will be eagerly sought for Christmas gifts, and will always find a ready
sale, cut and stamped ready for working. The sketch shows back and
front of bag when com-
pleted.
The material may be
linen crash, duck, or other
wash fabric. The two
main sections are first cut
out, and on each side an
outer pocket, half the
depth of the entire bag, is
two ends together with a pretty ruching of pink satteen, and attach narrow
SPECIAL ILLUSTRATIONS. 447
riboon hangers to suspend by. This arrangement leaves the sides of the
bag open and allows a circulation of air which dries the sponge quickly and
prevents it from becoming musty.
The sides of the oil silk bag may be decorated with some simple design
painted with oil colors.
TRAVELING CASE.
Traveling cases for holding towels, brush, comb, soap, etc., are useful ar-
ticles and may be made as ornamental
as one desires. The model shows a
very pretty case of this kind. To
make, select a strip of gray or ecru
linen canvas, 20 inches wide by 36
inches long. Turn over the canvas at j^....;^:.,. _ , _._ .-^L..,.^.^
o^-^^
one end to form a pocket nine or ten
inches deep — large enough for the
night-robe — above this pocket stitch
on a lap-over about 3^ inches wide,
fasten down to the pocket by means of 7T-
buttons and buttonholes. In the cen-
\r It X
silk braid
Bind all
and orna-
the
7 traveling case.
ment the hems and edges with a row of coral stitch done in dark brown
etching silk. Scatter over the pockets broken sprays of flowers and work
in outline stitch with two or three shades of brown etching silk. When
in use roll up from the end and fasten with brown satin ribbon.
Pretty traveling medicine cases are made from these materials and in
the same manner, except that the ends and sides lap over and tie in the center.
Inside there is a strip arranged in compartments to hold six medicine bottles.
—
If the frame is covered with leather, mole skin or silk, the design will look
best painted. Where the picture is to be used on a table or bracket a
standard should be attached to the back. The front and back boards can
be purchased for 15 or 25 cents, without the standard, and with, for from
25 to 50. Where one has not the patience or ingenuity to prepare the
foundation this will be found an accommodation.
The model shows an oval, eight inches across, covered with white linen
embroidered in forget-me-nots in satin stitch.
Dealers will find a stock of prepared foundations, with and without
standards, a paying investment. In connection with these should be car-
ried in stock the front and back covers, cut to fit, having stamped on them
suitable designs with the work commenced; the necessary material for
finishing should be attached to each in a little paper bag or envelope.
Where several covers are thus prepared just the necessary amount of
embroidery thread, and no more, need be purchased as one skein of a color
may be divided between several covers.
SPECIAL ILLUSTRATIONS. 449
Christmas time, and a fair profit may be made by the sale of the material
cut into shape having the design ready stamped, and with sufficient em-
broidery thread attached to work the pattern. Where several are to be
from the top of bag and droop gracefully downward. Another appropriate
pattern could be arranged by grouping small sprays of forget-me-nots
over the lower right-hand corner and scattering a few upward over the
surface toward the top of bag.
450 DAINTY WORK FOR PLEASURE AND PROFlt.
GLOVE AND VEIL CASES.
A society girl's dressing case of the present day resembles a bazaar of
fancy work, so many are the dainty trifles considered necessary for actual
use. Among the daintiest and most useful may be mentioned glove and
veil cases. There are many different methods of making these articles,
GLOVE CASE.
but models shown here are among the most practical as well as the latest.
To make the glove case, select a piece of fine yet heavy white linen,
27x36 inches ; hem the sides and buttonhole stitch the ends ; fold the linen
backwards and forwards into four even folds, after manner of creasing
paper for a fan. The folds will
A veil case to
match the glove case is made in exactly the same man-
ner and with the same materials, except that the dimensions are smaller,
being 18x14 inches. The motto, "See within this dainty case filmy veils
for thy fair face," is worked in simple outline stitch in bright gold the ;
ribbon is pale yellow and the flowers are worked in delicate pinks and blues
with Scotch flourishing thread. No. 8.
SPECIAL ILLUSTRATIONS. 451
are useful as well as pretty additions to baby's toilet. Very pretty little caps
may be made from scraps of white cashmere. Cut a crown the desired size.
Scallop the edge, work with buttonhole stitch with etching silk; cover the
crown with spot stitches worked close together: cut a bias frill for the bonnet,
and scallop the edge, same as for the crown, and cover the surface with
useful as well as ornamental, they will wear out, thus making room for newer
favorites from time to time. Pillows and cushions should always be
practical, and should look cozy and comfortable, and above all as if intended
for use first and ornament afterward. The model here shown is made of
blue denim, the wrong side is used as the right side for the cushion cover.
alike, i. e., short and long stitch for the outer petals, and French knots
massed close together for the center, which is indicated by heavy shading
in the illustration. The full-blown flower in upper left-hand corner should
SPECIAL ILLUSTRATIONS. 453
be treated as follows: work the petals in short and long stitch, heavier at
the tips. Cover the dots with French knots, large and small as indicated.
The stamens work with fine outline stitch and finish the top of each stamen
with a French knot. This treatment is simple and effective. The cushion
is finished with a frill of the denim made up on the right side. The edge
is scalloped and worked in buttonhole stitch with star floss. These covers
stand innumerable launderings and will wear until one heartily wishes a
change.
IDEAL HONITON.
Ideal Honiton has assumed an importance which bids fair to rival
drawn work. It is equally as dainty in appearance as the finest drawn
work, and has the advantage of being more quickly done and with less
strain upon the eyes.
baste around the outlines of the design, then buttonhole each edge to
it
the foundation; make the buttonhole stitches close and firm. Where the
—
Figure 2, shows a fine linen doyley finished with Ideal Honiton. The
reader will have no difficulty in sewing the braid to simulate the pattern
here shown as the size of each figure is determined by the length of the
loop in the braid — as will be seen by referring to the corner that is shaded
in — each pattern that forms the outside of an open space requires just four
loops of the braid — no more and no less will answer as a loop may not be
divided — on each side there is a pattern formed of three loops only.
SPECIAL ILLUSTRATIONS. 455
Figure 3 shows a small doyley for bread and butter plate. The arrang-
ment of the braid is quite simple. It is car-
of illustration indicates exactly how the braid should be put into position,
as well as the effect of the completed work. An ingenious worker will be
able to vary designs shown here, adding a loop or braid here and there.
Figure 4 shows a plate doyley. This treatment is at once effective and
simple. In arranging mark
off the space in each corner
that will be required to al-
low the four loops of the
braid to be put in; then
measure carefully to see if
"coming out " all right. A pretty finish for this design would be to button-
hole all the edges, close and firm, with pale green etching silk and then fill
each of the open spaces in the corner with a different stitch, say spike
stitch —shown on each end of figure 265 on page 252 for one space, spider
web, shown in center of same figure on page 252 for a second space and for
third space Brussels point or Spanish point — filling each corner differ-
Figure 5 illustrates a pillow cover for infant's crib, decorated with the
ideal Honiton, ar-
ranged first as
four-pointed stars
in the corner.
Around the edges
a row of the braid
is placed v/ith a
this braid work, and the ingenious worker will be enabled to arrange other
designs. The amourt of braid required for the various designs shown here
will vary from three to six yards.
SPECIAL ILLUSTRATIONS. 457
Zephyr Darning
Tapestry wool Single basket
Arrasenes Double basket
Chenille Close basket
V,
.
VI. INDEX.
page. pagb.
bars.
Daisy scarf
D'Alencon
Doyleys, Clover
Spider wheel... »
" Fern
Point de reprise
27-48 " Six Dresden
Rosette
49 " Leaf
Application of Stitches
Cherry
Combination of spot and single Daisy
51 Scroll-bordered center cloth
Loop
52 Floral center cloth
Leaf border
Grapevine, applique 53 Book covers
54 Dresden
Kensington stitch applied
.
54-55 Conventional
Short and long stitch
Designs, conventional shading
56-57 Round cushions
Table covers, cross stitch
Shading
Table covers, darned
Selecting shades
Curtains and portieres
Table of colors
Screens
Proper method of shading
Applique embroideries
High lights
Shadows Embroidered articles of dress.
Conventional shading Handkerchiefs, corner
Parasol
Natural shading
59-66 Dresses
Massing color for effect
Collar and cuffs
Art or Flat Embroidery
Roman embroidery Dressing jacket
Practical embroidery
Corner crepe lise ruffle
Use simple designs and stitches Edge of scallops for crepe lise ruffle.
Napkin Skirts
Vegetable mats •
Knitting silk
Tea or coffee cozey Sewing silk
Bedroom furnishings . .
Frames
Needles 115-117
Articles for use in sleeping rooms.
Pillow shams
Stitches for Ecclesiastical Work.
Pillow scarfs
Couching:
Commode scarf Basket
Splashers Battlemented
sets
Brick
Toilet
Combination embroideries Broad
Diagonal .>...,....
Scarf three
INDEX. VIL
PAQK.
Lilacs on celluloid in oil 280-381 Greek Point.
Lilacs in water color on celluloid , 281-283 Raleigh bars
Lustre painting 282-384 Point d'Alencon
Kensington painting 284-285 Point lace border
Kensington parrots 285-286 Handkerchief border
Crayon painting, portraits 286-289 Handkerchief Centers
Painting on birch bark 289-290 Collarette 309-821
Scorch painting 290-292 Knitting and Crocheting 325-326
Tapestry painting 292-293 Terms used 327
Canvas for 293-295 Abbreviations 327
Dyes 295-296 Crocheted dress for child 328-330
Brushes 296 Purse 330-331
Mixing dyes 296-297 Baby's Sacque 331-332
Flesh colors 297-298 Baby's shirt 332-333
Flesh painting 297 Lady's vest 334-335
Hair and drapery 298-301 Lady's vest, Basket pattern 835-337
Palettes for draperies, sky. marble, Baby's hood 337-338
stone, etc 301-308 Fancy bag 338-339
Painting for profit 304-308 Fringe 339-340
Point Lace Materials Pineapple edge 841
Braid Insertion crochet 243
Lace thread Border Crochet 843-343
Tracing cloth Trimming crochet 843-344
Ground cloth Knitted square for counterpane 345-347
Designs Wheels for toilet set .
. 347-348
Needles Edging 318-350
Preparing the work Diamond edge. . . 350-353
Outlining designs with braid Fern trimming 352-354
Stitches Crochet trimming 854-355
Stitches proper or points Narrow edging 855
Brussels point Broad edge 855-356
Venice point Narrow coral edging 856-357
Spanish point Reticella crochet 857-360
Close Spanish point Petticoat for child 361-362
Treble Spanish point Crochet tassel 363-364
Grecian point Daisy crochet lace 364-366
Valenciennes Guipure lace, crocheted 366-368
Point d'Alencon Crocheted table cover 368-371
Turkish stitch Petticoat 371-372
Net ground stitch Trimming, crochet and braid 372-374
Point de tulle Infant's knitted jacket 874-375
Mechlin Moss edging, crochet and braid 376
Wheels, rosettes, bars Fern edging 376
Sorrento bars French edging 876
Point d'Alencon bars Edging serpentine 376
Venetian bars Fancy braid edge. No. i 377
Edged Venetian bars Edging, No. 2 377
Dotted Venice point Shell trimming 377-378
Dotted Sorrento bars Palm trimming 378
ZNDBX.
PAGE, PAGE.
Hood for child 379-380 Traveling roll
XI
.
lNi)fiX OF ILLtSTRATlONS.
-'i^pt^
'ly*^
L'ENVOI.
The sum of human happiness lies in the words "Home making, Home
keeping." Ahome well made, well kept, well guarded is as near paradise
as any earthly thing may be, and should be the subject of greatest impor-
tance in a woman's life from the hour she pronounces the fateful "I will" to
the one in which she yields up her charge and joins the "throng innumer-
able."
The woman who can combine the practical necessary with the decora-
tive necessary, so as to preserve a true balance, is indeed happily endowed,
and blessed is the man who calls her "helpmeet." A man is greatly
indebted to his home environment and influence for his self-respect or
lack of that element. This is also true of children from the hour in which
they enter the school room and mix with their kind, to the day when they
go o.ut into that larger world to win their place in the plan universal.
The man does not live, however insensible to elegance in the abstract,
but feels a thrill of pride, experiences a feeling of importance, an increased
self-respect, as he enters the portals of his home —
if that home bears evi-
—
renders it possible for his wife to have as good perhaps better than other —
wives in his circle of acquaintance, and he mentally pats himself on the
shoulder and says "What a great man am I," perhaps never giving a thought
to the ways and means adopted by his domestic partner to produce such
satisfactory results, from too often limited resources; but what matters it
to the brave little helpmeet. She has done her part in using to the best
advantage what he has labored to secure, and thus each has performed but
his and her duty, and neither stands indebted to the other. True it is that
a word of loving acknowledgement and sympathy is a sweet morsel to any
woman, coming from the lips of the man she has sought to please by her
housewifely skill, and to the credit of the 19th century man, be it said,
that word is seldom withheld. Firmly imbued with the sentiments here
expressed it has been the aim of the writer, in the pages of "Dainty
Work," to put within the reach of every woman the knowledge and means
of rendering beautiful and elegant her home, whatever position of
in she life
may find her lot cast; to give voice to the sentiment that "the beautiful is good
and the good beautiful", as applied to home making. Whether the task has
been well or ill done the author must leave to the judgment of an indul-
gent public.