To make real good things you must make them of real good things. Mrs. W.H. Wilson, 1914 

{HISTORY}

Hemstitched drawn work is a true marvel of a sewing style. It’s always amazing to think that originally this type of needlework was created by pulling individual threads, by hand, from fabric in order to make a pattern. When the first hemstitch sewing machine was invented in 1893, it was quite the time saver and hemstitching became trendy during the Victorian and Edwardian eras thanks to faster production and easier manufacture. Today, there are specific hemstitching machines too for modern sewers, but the vintage pieces always retain a handmade quality that is dainty, delicate and unique. 

Dating back to the 1600s, drawn work and hemstitching have yielded millions of unique and individual designs as this style of sewing passes between centuries. This particular set of napkins features floral drawn work and and floral embroidery with a hemstitched edge.  Not an exact match in pattern between the large and small sizes, but similar enough to make them lovely companion, most likely they date to the late 1910's or early 1920's. Beautifully soft and luxurious, just like Mrs. Wilson said above, this set was made with quality materials and quality workmanship. Classic enough in color and design, they effortlessly fit into any tablescape or tea tray adding a little bit of elegance and refinement to your setting.

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

- Matching set of three small cocktail napkins plus one large dinner napkin

- Features embroidery, drawn work and hemstitching

- Floral design

- Classic bright white

- Linen material

{CONDITION}

In beautiful condition with no spots or stains. Two of the small napkins each bear one tiny hole the size of a pin prick where a hang tag once secured them together. Please see photo. 

{SIZE} 

Each small napkin measures between 10" inches (width) x 10.5" inches (length) 

Large napkin measures 16" inches (width) x 16" inches (length)

{STYLE IDEA}

Looking for more hemstitched linens? Find a vintage tablecloth in the shop here.