Images(2)

Book, "INSTRUCTIONS ON NEEDLE-WORK AND KNITTING…"

Date1832

Publisher Roake and Varty

OriginEngland, London

MediumPaper with linen and silk samples

DimensionsOL 8 3/4" x OW 5 1/8"

Credit LineAnonymous gift.

Object number1971-1633,A

DescriptionThis is a workbook with stiff, paper-covered boards. After the introductory pages, there are various lessons in needlework; opposite each page is an example of the point being covered, as marking, hemming, shirt-making, etc. In total, the book contains nine examples: a piece of fabric demonstrating overcast seams, flat felled seams, a drawstring edge, hemming, and blanket stitch; a gusset for a shift sleeve; a shift; a man's shirt; a bonnet; weaving; darning; a marking sampler; and a knitted stocking. There are two linen samplers in the front of the book (which may not be original to it), one of a house with two chimneys, flanked on either side by a tree, and one with three alphabets.

The full title of the book reads: INSTRUCTIONS ON NEEDLE-WORK AND KNITTING, AS DERIVED FROM THE PRACTICE OF THE CENTRAL SCHOOL OF THE NATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PROMOTING THE EDUCATION OF THE POOR IN THE PRINCIPLES OF THE ESTABLISHED CHURCH, IN THE Sanctuary, Westminster.Label TextWorkbooks, like this one, were used in promoting the education of the poor. This manual consists of useful sewing lessons such as hemming, filling, darning, and gathering. The book is opened to a lesson on marking linens and shows a completed marking sampler, which measures only 3 5/8 in. x 3 in.

This book was published for the National Society for Promoting the Education of the Poor in the Principles of the Established Church for their Central School near St. Margaret's Church in London.
Mark(s)Written on cover: "N. S. Central Sch./ Work Book/ 1832".ProvenanceEx. Collection Tomlinson