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The following books are reprints of some very rare needlework books in my personal collection. The original books were digitally scanned at a very high resolution. I have not edited the original contents in any way with the exception of removing the age spots and creases. The pages are larger than the original books making reading much easier. Cover and inside inscription are printed in color. Books are printed on top quality acid-free paper and constructed with a spiral metal binding and clear cover to lie flat for ease of use. 

 "The Lady's Dictionary of Needlework", by Mrs. Pullan, 64 pages. I have found it quite handy and hope you will find it just as useful in helping “translate” patterns from ladies publications of the period such as Godey’s, Peterson’s, and Arthur’s Home Magazine. The original has no date, but has a hand inscription that dates to 1856. While originally published in London , it is still an indispensable tool in trying to decode old needlework instructions and identify supplies of the time. It will make your journey through mid 19th-century needlework much more enjoyable and less of a mystery. The book is a spiral bound copy of the original. $10.00

“The Knitting Teacher’s Assistant,” was published in 1817 with 41 pages plus advertisements. It is a very, very rare copy of an early 19th- century stocking and sock knitting instruction book that was originally published in London in 1817. It has great instructions for all your 19th-century sock knitting needs.  The original purpose of this book was a charitable effort to teach the poor to knit for extra income. I believe it to be one of the earliest printed sock patterns in existence (If not the earliest!!). This volume is so rare that it is not listed in the bibliography compiled by Richard Rut in his work “A History of Hand Knitting” which lists this publication under Hatchard, J., & Sons (pub) first published in 1838 with a new edition by E.M. Corbould in1877. As you can clearly see this copy, published for J. Hatchard & Sons but in 1817, preceding the listing in Rutt by 21 years. $10.00  

“The Album of Fancy Needlework”, was originally published in 1847 with a soft cover and 35 pages. This book has various patterns in Knitting, Netting and Crochet. All of the patterns have illustrations to go with them and one is even in color. Pattern instructions include Crochet Cuff, Knitted Beaded Mat, The Imperial Crochet Slipper, Knitted Pelisse for a Lady, etc. It was originally published in London ,  and sold for Sixpence!  $10.00  
“Mrs. Gauguin's Knit Polka Book”, was originally published in 1847 with a soft cover and 32 pages.  This book has various patterns for "Polka's" or what we today would call a sweater. Included are instructions for both children's and women's clothing. Each different pattern has an illustration of the completed garment. It was originally published in London  and sold for Sixpence! A wonderful book to add to your needlework library. Great patterns for Civil War reenactors. $10.00  

 

Here is an unusual treat, my Mother's book has been republished!

The Open-Hearth Cookbook
by Suzanne Goldenson and Doris Simpson

CHAMBERSBURG , PA – The Open-hearth Cookbook: Recapturing the Flavor of Early America by Suzanne Goldenson and Doris Simpson has been reprinted by the Alan C. Hood Publishing Company.  This is a basic “how to” book to show modern folks how to enjoy hearth-cooked meals today.  Early American cooking implements are described as well as cooking techniques such as baking, roasting, simmering and other techniques used to cook on an open fire.  Recipes as well as sources for hearth cookware are included.  This book is available at all major bookstores or through Amazon.com.

 

 

This web site is maintained by Robin Stokes, and was last updated 10/18/2006 . All text and images are copyright 2006 by Robin Stokes, who is solely responsible for the content and reserves all rights.