How to Craft Antique Handkerchiefs

Use handkerchiefs to create gifts for a special occasion.

With a few basic sewing skills you can craft antique handkerchiefs into keepsakes or decorative items for the home. These vintage handkerchiefs come in a variety of prints with decorative trims and needlework. A little imagination and minimal sewing will give new life to these old treasures. Create a gift for a friend, a keepsake for a bride or add to your home decor with your antique handkerchiefs.

Things You'll Need

• Thread
• Straight pins
• Sewing machine
• Sewing needle
• Invitations
• ¼-inch ribbon
• Throw pillow
• Old clothespins

Instructions

Table Runner

1. Lay handkerchiefs end to end across the table to determine the number of handkerchiefs needed.

2. Position the largest handkerchief in the center of the table.

3. Place additional handkerchiefs on either side of the center hankie, matching the edges as well as you can.

4. Pin edges together.

5. Sew the edges of the hankies together with a sewing machine. Stitch close to the edges.

Hankie Envelope

1. Lay the handkerchief on your work surface with the backside of any embroidered stitching placed at the top facing up.

2. Fold the left and right corners to meet in the center.

3. Fold up the bottom corner to meet in the center.

4. Stitch together the edges of the folded handkerchief using a needle and thread, to form a pocket.

5. Tuck a special invitation or small gift into the pocket.

6. Fold down the top corner to the center to form your envelope.

7. Tie a ribbon around the envelope.

Wedding Hankie

1. Fold the hankie in fourths to locate the center of the handkerchief. Mark the center with a straight pin.

2. Cut a length of ¼-inch wide satin ribbon 16 inches long.

3. Tie a loop in the ribbon large enough to fit around the bride's wrist.

4. Stitch the ends of the ribbon into the center of the hankie using a needle and thread.

5. Slip the handkerchief over the bride's wrist to carry in her wedding.

Valance

1. Place handkerchiefs diagonally across a curtain rod with points hanging down.

2. Overlap the corners of the hankies.

3. Clip in place with old clothespins.

Tips & Warnings

• Iron handkerchiefs flat before beginning projects.

• Use a pressing cloth when ironing embroidered handkerchiefs.

References

• Craft Bits: Antique Handkerchief Table Runner
• Bumblebee Linens: Arts and Crafts With Handkerchiefs and Linens
• Attic Shoppe: Vintage Handkerchiefs - Decorating and Craft Tips