HANDKERCHIEFS.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume X, Issue 1, 7 January 1893, Page 22

HANDKERCHIEFS.

Most ladies like nice handkerchiefs ; but they are so expensive, particularly in the small towns, that a good supply of a really fine article is not within the reach of all who would appreciate them. But very dainty ones may be made at home, and the work is really pleasant, though rather tedious for weak eyes and weak nerves. Linen lawn is nicest for this work, and India linen, or a line white lawn is also nice. One yard will make’ four. Cut them straight, first drawing a thread to cut by. Have them eighteen inches square before drawing the threads to mark the hem, for which draw out two threads all round, an inch or an inch and a quarter from the edge. Of all depends on the size of the hem. Turn down the hem and hem-stitch. As all my readers may not understand hem-stitching, a few words of instruction may be acceptable. Begin by fastening your thread firmly, hiding the knot from view. Pass the needle under four threads (where the threads are drawn ont), draw thread and needle through, over the finger on which the work rests, then pass the needle under the sewing-thread into the hem—not through the under-side. s

For drawn work, draw out ten threads (or about that number). Use thread No. 100. Fasten thread firmly in the hem on the wrong side of the work, then lay the thread across the middle of the drawn work, and with the needle take up about eight threads ; bring the needle up so that the thread is around it, forming a knot when drawn closely. Keep the thread over the middle of drawn work so that the work will be even. It is not wise to strain one’s eyes counting threads ; one more or less cannot be seen, nor will so small an error make the article less beautiful. Another way of marking these handkerchiefs is to mark the edges in squares or scallops, then buttonhole-stitch them all round. After the buttonhole work is completed, cut the cloth away. Some very beautiful handkerchiefs are made of white China silk. The edges are done in buttonhole stitch with white embroidery, or knitting silk. An elaborate monogram may be embroidered in one corner; or floral designs may be done in embroidery, if liked. But plain or embroidered they are very pretty and serviceable. Elza Renan.