Make a What-not, braided in a new style (1861)
How to make a What-not
Materials: A piece of fine green cloth, stamped according to the engraving, for the back and front of the What-not; one piece of gold-colored Russia silk braid, one piece of crimson purse silk, four yards cord (gold and green) and four tassels to match.
There are two novelties in this pretty what-not: one is the shape, which is extremely elegant; the other is the mode of braiding, which is done not by taking the stitches through the soutache, but across it at regular distances, with silk of a contrasting color. It is thus possible to harmonize three colors in the same article; and, indeed, the work quite loses the appearances of ordinary braiding. The ends of the braid must be drawn through to the wrong side of the cloth as usual.
It is afterwards to be made up, over stont cardboard, and lined with crimson or gold-colored silk. There is a plain piece at each end, the back and front being about two inches apart. The lining should be set on in plaits here and there. The bottom has a layer of wadding under the silk, and the edges are finished with silk cord. One pair of tassels hang from the cord by which it is suspended; the other two are places at the corners in front.
The colors selected should be such as will suit the room. Brown clothe with gold-colored braid will always look well, whether crossed with green, crimson, scarlet or blue.
This style or braiding may be employed for any other purpose with excellent effect.
You might also like...
Publication: Godey's Lady's Book
Publication date: March 1861
