Heirloom Decorating

» Donna_Dunn - Vintage Linen

Hi, I loved your article, and am wondering if you have some ideas for using vintage table linens. I have some tablecloths and napkins which unfortunately have seen better days, and are no longer suitable for table settings. Some have holes, or stains, but the remainder of the cloth is intact, often with beautiful embroidery or cutwork detailing. I can't bear to part with this stuff! Any ideas? Thanks.

- Donna

-- posted by Donna_Dunn

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» Rachel_Paxton - Re: Vintage Linen

Hi Donna,

I do have an idea that I'd forgotten about when I was writing the article. Many years ago I found a pattern for a doll dress you could make out of antique linens. I think the pattern had you use an old pillowcase. You buy a small cloth doll and then make the dress out of the pillow case.

The dress was very long and looked similar to a Christening gown. It was very beautiful. The scalloped edges of the pillow case became the hem of the dress, and the embroidery along the end of the pillow case is right above it, on the front of the dress. There was also a matching bonnet.

I would think you could apply this idea to any heirloom linen, and use any doll dress pattern. Or a Christening gown pattern, for that matter. The long gown was really pretty. I also love to dress up fabric bunnies. You can buy the bunny form and dress it like a doll. It makes a wonderful decorating accent and would definitely show off heirloom linens!

-- posted by Rachel_Paxton

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» Donna_Dunn - Re: Re: Vintage Linen

In response to message posted by Rachel_Paxton:

Thanks Rachel, that's a great idea. I've seen those pillowcase dolls, and they really are beautiful. I just never even thought of trying it with my other linens.

- Donna

-- posted by Donna_Dunn

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