Antiques and the Arts Book Review


Collecting Household Linens
By Frances Johnson
Schiffer Books, 160 pages, color and b&w photographs, values guide, $29.95 softcover.

Collecting Household Linens is designed for the experienced collector as well as the novice and begins with the details of the traditional means of making one's own fabric. Since some linens can still be found that were woven on the old looms, it is important for collectors to know the difference between those and the factory-made fabrics. Understanding the hours of work that went into making such fabrics gives one an appreciation of the older household linens. Later, factory-made household linens are much more plentiful, however, and therefore easier to find for much lower prices. Other subjects covered in the book are afghans, alter cloths (later ones), and curtains and shade pulls. These have only recently become very collectible. Bedspreads are another household item that has not received much attention previously. This book has information on bedspreads made by the Bates Manufacturing Company in Lewiston, Maine, as well as the knotted bedspreads made in the Great Smokey and Blue Ridge Mountains a few years ago. The author clearly loves needlework and enjoys imparting her knowledge to the reader. She also writes about centerpieces and doilies, as well as pillows, napkins, and napkin rings. Included is helpful information on caring for old linens and a number of creative ideas for salvaging damaged linens (how about making a lampshade?). The value of many pieces are shown with the photographs.

Collecting Household Linens

By Frances Johnson