Needle Care
|
|
Caring For Your NeedlesThe September 2010 issue of NeedlePointers features a fabulous article on the history of needles. Nowadays, if a needle is no longer usable, we think nothing of tossing it and pulling a new one out of the packet. When I use my sewing machine, the mantra is, “new project, new needle.”In times past, such callous treatment of the household’s prized possession was unthinkable! The singular is used intentionally. Many upper-class households owned just one needle – poorer families shared one. A primary duty of the Lady of the House was to ensure that the needle was kept intact, sharp, and rust-free. Doing so was quite an undertaking. The article outlines methods of storing needles through the ages. Needle cases were made of everything from bone, to bronze, to velvet. Emery-filled strawberry-shaped pincushions became popular in the early Nineteenth Century, and are still available today. Although emery powder is still available, using it is no longer advised. The plating on today’s needles can be harmed if the needles are stored in emery. Wool felt is recommended. You will not find wool felt at the local craft stores. When I went hunting for it, I was told I had to “make it myself.” The clerk probably thought I was asking for “felted wool.” I have found a terrific source for wool felt, and currently stock it in white (yellow undertone) and antique white (bluish undertone). Cost is fifty-cents/inch, sold in ¼-yard increments. Do you want something other than white for the latest addition to your needlebook collection? I’m happy to order it. Below are examples of needlebooks. I thank my customers for their generosity in sharing their work. 
Stitcher's Notes: Used for the model were an 8 x 11 inch piece of white 28-count evenweave, one skein of DMC #905 embroidery floss, white felt, lining material, and a number 28 tapestry needle. 14-count Aida or evenweave of a different count could also be used, as could different colors of floss. The dimensions of the finished case (when closed) are apporximately 4 inches high by 3-3/4 inches wide. The project could also be finished as framed pictures. Patterns for the pears and the harvest time coaster pattern are available for free from Needlework Click on the "Blackwork" link on the left side of the page, and then look for the links for the "Harvest Time Coaster" and the "Shaded Pears Design." I added a border around the "coaster" pattern I used for the back of the needlecase, and added my initial. The site provides detailed instructions for using the double running (or "Holbein") stitch. The patterns could also be stitched just using backstitch. Keep a needle and thread in your hands, and you'll keep out of trouble! All images and information depicted on this site are protected under copyright laws. Do not duplicate, use, reproduce, display or transmit any design or information without the express written consent of Michelle Hufford. © 2010 Michelle Hufford, Come to the Point!10 California Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901, Telephone: 415.485.4942. |
This needlebook was knitted then felted before assembly. It's quite durable! 
A small piece of mine done into a needlebook.