Can you help identify this large hand-knit tablecloth/bed cover?
by
Emily
+6
I found this cloth, believe it is a bed cover as it has no edging on one side. It is badly damaged but appears to be all hand work. Is anyone on here an expert on needlework? I dealt in linens at one time but don't recall seeing a piece like this.
It does look like a decorative bed cover! It looks very fragile. I have a tablecloth that is very similar that I know is at least 75 years old. Sorry that I can't help you any further than that!
piano dust cover?
The type of needlework that characterizes this bed cover is called Tatting.
It is worked with either a needle or a shuttle.
https://simplycollectiblecrochet.com/2014/05/difference-between-shuttle-tatting-needle-tatting-and-cro-tatting/
https://lynscraftsyarns.com/what-is-tatting/
As far as determining to what extent the piece has been worked by hand, and if it may have any archival value, I would suggest that you contact either a curator at an accredited museum, or Threads Magazine. On the back cover of every Threads issue, a vintage hand sewn garment is always featured. As it is a reputable source of information, they should be able to refer you on to someone who can help you more.
It could be hardanger or white work embroider. My grandmother used to do this.
After posting this I did more research and found samples on Pinterest. The names are seem to be from an area of the world I can't pin point. Thank you all for your replies, I really appreciate it. I had not heard of "threads" and so will check that out. I have a real reverence for old things and hate to discard them when I know they are hand made.