Sewing Accessories: An Illustrated History by Victor Houart

Thimbles, scissors, pin cushions, tape measures - all familiar accessories of the sewing workbox - are often beautiful works of art, fashioned in the past to be ornamental as well as practical. Over the centuries the art of sewing has given rise to a wide range of tools which are both pleasing for their fine craftsmanship and of interest for their age and origin. No wonder more and more people are collecting these dainty tools designed to help the seamstress, embroiderer or needlewoman in her work. Sewing Accessories: An Illustrated History is a clear and informative introduction to the subject, covering every type of sewing implement from needles and darners to worktables and sewing machines. In each chapter, the author deals with a particular item, tracing it back to the earliest examples and first references. He then follows the development of each sewing tool, explaining how and when all of the variations within each category were made, and pointing out which ones are now rarities. Victor Houart's lively text and careful research make this a fascinating book which will inspire and delight everyone interested in the history and accessories of sewing, as well as being of value to collectors.

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