Madame Worth’s New Manual of Fancy Work

As regular readers know, I am addicted to the Antique Pattern Library as it is such an interesting and free resource. If you have not discovered it before now take a coffee break and have fun poking around these old books. Yesterday, I was doing just that poking around the site. I found Madame Worth’s New Manual of Fancy Work. Do check this resource out, as there are a few gems in it. I am sharing a few pages here so people can get a sense of what the book contains.

As with many free books in the collection it is delivered via a PDF file. So you need a PDF reader to enjoy the book.

I am sharing a few of the pages from this book, so that readers see what appeals. Hopefully by browsing a few of the patterns on offer you can sense if it is likely to appeal, and how worthwhile this free book maybe to you. The description on the cover reads : “Kensington Stamping and Embroidery, Kensington Metallic Flitter and Lustre Painting, Ribbon Embroidery, Colors of Flowers, Etc., Etc.” But I also spotted drawn thread work, lace directions, knitting patterns, tatting patterns, crochet patterns and  net work.

 

For readers who are interested in crazy quilting there are many designs that are suitable to use and are the type of designs crazy quilters would have had access to and used back in the day.

I got very excited about this bag pattern as I can imagine miniature versions hanging on a Christmas tree. It could be filled with sweets or a little gift. They would be extremely fiddly to make. I would adjust the pattern a little but they would look nice. If I have time, I really want to make some.

If you need information on how to work any of the stitches mentioned in the book don’t forget my stitch dictionary