How do I repurpose old hankies?
by
JJ
+11
I have a lovely collection of hankies that I’d love to repurpose or honor in some way. They are currently in a box and I’d much rather display them. Some are very old and dainty and some are girlie from the seventies. I’m looking for ideas other than making a quilt that might be creative and show them off. Thanks in advance.
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I've seen them used on pictures from vintage patterns to act as the skirt, I've seen them framed, & used as curtains or a valance. Here's a link with more ideas:
https://www.pinterest.com/motownmarie/vintage-handkerchief-sewing-projects/?autologin=true
Here's a post that might help you - https://diyeverywhere.com/2017/04/06/11-amazing-ways-to-re-use-old-vintage-handkerchiefs/
Shadow box or have a piece of glass cut for a table top (dresser, coffee table, etc) and put there. I did that with a doily my MIL made on a night stand.
Pillows. Add to a pillow front. Some people make baby toys out of them with a pattern for a small stuffed animal. Hang a lacy one off of a shelf halfway over the lip of the shelf and use books or vase to hold in place. Make a great valance above a window with ones of similar color by folding one corner over a curtain rod and keep adding until you have enough to fill the window width in a bathroom or bedroom.
Lots to see here, I especially love the idea on the top left:
https://www.pinterest.com/phylliswp/what-to-do-with-vintage-hankies/
I have seen them used as a valance over a window but they may be too delicate for that. Could you try hanging a few in picture frames to make a collection or art out of them?
Hello. I’ve seen vintage hankies used as curtains and shower curtain with liner.
How about shadowboxing? That's what I did with mine. Some are from the late 1800's to the late 50's. Then hung in my hallway so they did not get sun damaged. Here are some options!
https://images.app.goo.gl/ywMZuAew7PjvHMJf7
https://images.app.goo.gl/BtS89Samnmp5unEF9
https://images.app.goo.gl/NGNFptnAc1Gfepbb6
https://images.app.goo.gl/YKRFrmjoV79orGKj8
You could do something like this: https://flamingotoes.com/colorful-vintage-handkerchief-valances/
I framed a square scarf and it was so pretty!
I have several antique items like you, given to me by my late grandmother. I have placed them in glass protected picture frames with colorful backings. And I have placed them between round glass tabletops. Then placed the tabletops on an antique wooden stool and made a bedside table.
You could frame them? My friend has her Grandma's framed and they are lovely.
Thank you so much everyone! I can’t decide which of the great ideas to choose! I appreciate all of the input. Stay safe and well.
I have seen people sew them together to use as a table runner or even sewing them together and using as a window treatment.