NEEDLEWORK NOVELTIES

Taranaki Daily News, 31 August 1935, Page 15 (Supplement)

NEEDLEWORK NOVELTIES

A .TABLE NAPKIN IDEA 'J'HE newest idea in table napkins is an oblong of rather rough linen which is much easier to keep in place on a slippery silk dress than is the square of highly glazed damask. An excellent set was made in oatmeal coloured linen, worked in blue thread with the owner’s initials, the hem-stitched borders being, carried out in the same shade. Each place at table was marked by a similar oblong in place: of the usual mat, and this was large enough to take cutlery and silver as well, as side plate and glasses. The use of the more comprehensive type of mat undoubtedly improves the appearance of the table. .-

There is a great demand for the “gentlemen’s size” silk handkerchief just now, for this is being used to simulate a blouse-front under a tailored coat. The idea is to cut the square in halves diagonally, and hem the raw edge of the section that is to be used in this , way. From the other half cut away the border intact, sew the point over the point of the first piece, and use the ends to tie in a. little knot at the back of the neck. Cut the remainder into narrow strips, join these, hem the sides, and use as ties to keep the triangle in place round the waist.

If you order an evening frock that you will have to wear for various occasions, it is & good plan to have the back cut fairly high and made to fasten nearly to the waist with ; little buttons in the same material. For dressy parties the back can be left partly open, the sides being lightly fastened back to form the triangular revers which are a feature of the up-to-date dance-gowns. A particularly pretty effect is to be gained by continuing the buttons right to the hem of the skirt, a scheme which, incidentally, helps considerably in the laundering should the garment be made’ from a washing fabric. > , \ The buttoned-back idea has been materialised in a frock of black suede satin which, with long sleeves, enabled the owner to wear it in town and afterwards go on to a dance or* dinner. ' . • ’