I was always generally interested in antique needlework tools, but my interest never exceeded my enthusiasm for actually doing needlework. Maybe it's just my mania for collecting things in general, but lately I've become more and more interested in old tools and notions. I haven't actually purchased anything yet, but I wander with envy through the many wonderful items on eBay, daring myself to buy something. (If you saw my apartment, you'd understand why I'm hesitant to start any more collections of anything.)

Lately I've been mildly obsessed with chatelaines, those pins or belt clips ladies once used to hold all their necessary items hooked onto chains (like scissors, needlecases, pincushions, and more). Old and new, the fabulous silver chatelaines are prohibitively expensive, although there are excellent patterns for making chatelaines in cross stitch, hardanger, crocheting, and quilting. I did buy a bunch of cheap reproduction pieces on discount at a craft store and came up with my own version, but that's a different story (which I'll share eventually).

What I want to share today is an article called "Antique Sewing & Needlework Tools" by Gloria Brunning. If you're interested in antique needlework tools, you'll enjoy this piece, which includes a gallery of items, many made of bone, including bodkins, lucets, and cotton barrels. If any of these terms are unfamiliar to you, take a look at Brunning's photos and commentary.

This article is featured on www.antiquequiltdating.com, "New Pathways Into Quilt History," by quilt historian and antique quilt collector Kimberly Wulfert. Even if quilting isn't your area of needlework interest, don't overlook this site packed with material both informative and enjoyable!

--Nancy