The Legacy of Bridal Lace

Did you know that the lace in a nineteenth century bride's dress became a part of her wardrobe for decades to come?

Great Videos

While searching for some videos to show how drawn thread embroidery is done I came across some great videos of several techniques

A little party!

I really do use vintage linens every chance I get. Here are a few photos of my table for a party yesterday.

Achieving a Farmhouse Decorating Style

Learn the elements of achieving the perfect farmhouse style decor

Layering Bed Linens

Layer colors and textures for a cozy bedroom. Go from a hotel look to a bedroom that looks like a fancy Bed & Breakfast with a little lace or a fancy coverlet.

Books & Catalogs

I've been putting together a list of books and catalogs for research reference and thought I'd share them here.

• LACE WORK: A HANDBOOK ILLUSTRATED (1896) explains how to make different styles of lace
• INSTRUCTIONS FOR LACE MAKING (1878) 
• BOOK OF (LACE) PATTERNS an original catalog of ready made lace (1878)
• HOW TO MAKE BATTENBURG AND POINT LACE (1900)
• DESIGNS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR IRISH CROCHET LACE (1910)
• HILGER BROS: RUGS, CARPETS, LINOLEUMS, LACE CURTAINS, MATTINGS & SHADES (1910) Great color photos of rugs and floor coverings plus lace curtains
• MEDICI LACE AND THE ART OF MAKING IT (1908)
• A TREATICE ON LACE-MAKING AND EMBROIDERY, WITH BARBOUR'S IRISH FLAX THREAD (1900)
• THE WILSON ORIGINAL LACE BOOK complete instructions to make various types of lace and to make items made of lace (1914)
• ETIQUETTE  by Emily Post (1922)
• CROCHET  Series No. 1-5 (1833) learn to make crochet accents (1883)

Lace Curtains from 1902 Catalog

See the peak of fashion in lace curtain styles from this 1902 curtain manufacturer catalog.

Happy Tears Hankies

Here's a great idea for your wedding day, or a wedding gift for the bride

Use of the Doily and the Antimacassar

Both the DOILY and the ANTIMACASSAR are used to protect furniture. Learn the difference and how they're used

Antique, Vintage or Retro?

Understanding the difference between ANTIQUE, VINTAGE and RETRO

Iron Linens Like a Pro

What could be simpler than ironing linens? Well, like anything else, there are some "tricks of the trade" that will make your ironing quicker and easier while getting better results.

The Greatest Iron Ever!

Back when fabric was made of real materials, you needed a real iron. I just found mine!

What is a Chenille Bedspread?

What's the origin of those fun old bedspreads with tufted yarn poking through?

Martha Stewart's Tips for Storing Vintage Linens

Should you wrap old linens in tissue paper to store them?

What is Madeira Embroidery?

Learn more about the Madeira embroidery method and history

All About COCKTAIL NAPKINS

When do you use a cocktail napkin versus a luncheon napkin or dinner napkin?

Using Curtains Outdoors

What could be more charming than lace curtains adorning your porch, blowing in the breeze on a warm summer's day?

Hosting Overnight Guests

Guests will love to stay overnight when you have prepared for their visit by anticipating what they need to be comfortable. One of my friends - a man, at that! - once said he likes coming to our house because it feels like a bed and breakfast. What a lovely compliment that was! Here are some tips to help you get ready when company is coming.

Why We Love Vintage Linens

There's nothing quite like the feel of vintage linens, from a time when everyday things were made to be not only pretty but durable and useful.

Hospital Blankets

If you find a hospital blanket, get it! Here are some ideas for using them in so many ways.

Choose the Right Duvet for a Spa-Like Bedroom

If you've wanted to achieve the look and feel of a spa-like, high-end hotel experience in your own bedroom or guest room, here are some tips on choosing the right duvet to fit your needs.

How to Care for White Bedding & Linens

Find it challenging to keep white bed linens looking their best? Try these tips for laundering and storage.

How to Fold a Fitted Sheet

I was 50 years old before a friend taught me how to fold a fitted sheet. When I stumbled on this video I just had to share it.

About Vintage Linens

Collect old linens, use them often and use them in unexpected ways

Welcome to our online store

Welcome to our online store! Our team is proud to announce that we're now open for business, and we look forward to serving you all in the future. If you have any questions about this store or the products found within, please don't hesitate to contact us any time. Our website has been carefully designed to provide you with an amazingly flexible online shopping experience, and its ease of navigation is something we think you'll grow to depend on and appreciate. Feel free to browse our entire product catalog, and let us know if you have any questions, comments or concerns about the items housed within. Our team is always ready and willing to assist our customers, and we are happy for your visit.