June 1826 Muslin Pattern
Here’s a sneak peak at an embroidery design that is almost ready to be released. It’s a c. 1826 muslin pattern from the June edition of Ackermann’s Repository of Arts, Literature, Commerce, Manufactures, Fashions and Politics.
The original 1826 muslin pattern included one corner and a partial border. The edge is comprised of delicate scallops and flowers. The inner edge of the border has leaves that radiate outwards from the corner. Interestingly, the original design cannot make a square, since the leaves go out in both directions from the corner. This means that I needed to design a second corner where the leaves meet going inward. You need both corners in order to create a square design.
This particular design can be made up into a square for a handkerchief, or one central corner for a fichu. It could also be used for an apron or gown, with a scalloped edge and the floral sprig as a scattered fill or additional border. The floral sprig would make a striking embellishment on a reticule or evening bag. When stitched in other colors, it would be perfect for a 1950s dress hem or other modern sewing projects. The original inspiration image can be seen here: This is the kind of design gets me really excited about the possibilities of machine embroidery. In less than 4 hours, I can make an entire handkerchief. In 4 hours by hand… I can probably make a mess of some thread and want to throw my embroidery hoop across the room. I have great admiration for those who can do hand work, but I don’t know if I will ever have the time and patience to join their ranks. Until then, well-researched machine embroidery is a compromise I am happy to live with!
You can find this 1826 muslin pattern in the shop. It is available as a hand embroidery pattern as well as a machine embroidery design.