Re-Purposing Vintage Linens

Vintage linens can be fun to collect, but unless one uses them, they become “overstock.” If you own heirloom pieces, I recommend you handle them respectfully, and store them carefully. If you have a drawer full of crocheted doilies and lace tablecloths, perhaps it’s time you “re-purposed” them.

Crocheted doilies are easy to use in craft and sewing projects. Sewing a chain of doilies together creates a table lovely, unique table runner. The doilies may be dyed to match your color scheme. Frame a fancy doily to use as wall art. Sew a doily onto a plain pillow to jazz it up. Place a doily or two on a coffee table, place a piece on glass on it, and you have added some new style to your room.

Re-purposed doilies are also popular to use in clothing. Go to www.Etsy.com to see many inspiring projects for vintage doilies. They have been used to create gorgeous skirts, vests, and shawls. Doilies can be sewn onto tote bags and purses to make them unique in design.

Lace tablecloths may be turned into curtains, pillow shams, lampshades, bed throws, and chair seat covers. Once one starts considering all the possibilities, one is only limited by their imagination.

Karen Hewitt is the owner of Barn House Antiques located at 308 Peruville Rd. (Rt. 34B), in Lansing, NY. Phone 607-533-8636.

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