I like handkerchiefs.
I like the feel of soft cotton and linen on my face.
I like being able to gently wipe scraped toddler knees without leaving nasty bits of bloody paper behind.
I like being kind to the environment by washing and reusing rather than constantly buying and disposing.
I like having sweetly perfumed bits of cloth leaving the light scent of gardenias in my pockets, purse and drawers.
I like quieting fussy children with a handkerchief dolly made right before their eyes.
I like admiring delicate stitchwork and beautifully turned hems on the hankies I carry with me.
I believe that there is something somewhat civilizing in the use of handkerchiefs.
It would seem that others agree with me. Here are some recent handkerchief links I spotted just in time for Christmas:
- Lisa Clarke of Polka Dot Cottage is up to some gift giving Hanky Panky
- Preserves-the blog is Passing Down Heirloom Hankies
- Over at Grosgrain, she is stitching up easy monogram hankies with a clever holder
- and Sharon of the Old Oak Swing reminisces about Grandma’s Handkerchiefs When you read her beautiful essay, be sure to have one handy.
Nostalgic, environmentally friendly and inexpensive gifts for the holidays? That’s what works for me!
Now here’s a quick Tutorial on how to make a handkerchief doll to settle fussy children when you are eating out or sitting in church:
TXPoppet Makes a Hankie Poppet
For more Works For Me Wednesday ideas, visit Rocks in my Dryer.
9 responses so far ↓
1
Ree
// Oct 29, 2008 at 7:27 am
I love it.
2
Janet
// Oct 29, 2008 at 8:25 am
That’s a great gift idea. I have several handkerchiefs from my grandmothers and one that was my father’s.
I use baby washcloths for the kiddos though.
And thanks for the tutorial. I’ll remember that one next time we’re waiting for dinner.
3
Deanna
// Oct 29, 2008 at 8:36 am
Handkerchiefs make me think of comfort for my Daddy. Such a wonderful loving memory. Thank you for that.
Deannas last blog post..WFW: Pumpkins
4
Green Girl
// Oct 29, 2008 at 8:48 am
My dad had a freshly ironed handkerchief in his suit pocket EVERY DAY when I was little. Sigh.
I confess, when I inherited my grandma’s stash, I put them to use. Mostly in the winter, but I do, I really use them.
5
mama2tlc
// Oct 29, 2008 at 9:52 am
I love this idea- thanks for the tutorial.. now where do I get them? Can I make them w/out a sergeR?
mama2tlcs last blog post..HELP!
6
Leslie
// Oct 29, 2008 at 10:34 am
I carried a hand tattered hanky made by my grandmother (who has passed) in my wedding bouquet
7
Audra Krell
// Oct 29, 2008 at 10:38 am
This is a great post, made me very nostalgic. Thanks for sharing this reminder of the great hanky - oh and great title too!
Audra Krells last blog post..Luv in Hard Times
8
apathy lounge
// Oct 29, 2008 at 4:31 pm
My dad always carried a pocket handkerchief, but I sat next to my mother who used Kleenex. I remember those long, boring sermons. When young, I was allowed to sleep. This was before the days of Children’s Church and the sanctuary was filled with squirmy kids. I would have appreciated a doll made for me, but nobody wanted to encourage me to “play” during church. Even quiet play. Loved your tutorial.
apathy lounges last blog post..Garanimals For Men: The Time Is Now
9
monstergirlee
// Oct 31, 2008 at 2:18 pm
Loved your video! can’t wait to try it out on MJ this sunday.
btw - hubby is a staunch hankie user - I iron fresh white hankies for his work week on sunday nights. Then he uses the colored ones and bandana’s the rest of the time. But yeah, he really likes the ironed white handkerchief in his pockets for his new job.
monstergirlees last blog post..Last October Flower
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