Linen and Christmas Gifts - from Little Falls Weekly Transcript, December 27th 1898
“There was never such a thing heard of as a housekeeper overstocked with table and bed linen. Only the size of the pocketbook regulates the contents of the linen closet. The large shops, of course, carry complete linen outfits, the prices of which range from $500 to 1,000, but few women can afford one of these sets, hence linen is generally a welcome present. White embroidery is most popular for table linen. On the other hand, in embroidering pillows, portieres or large pieces, strong colors and color contrasts are needed to give character. A design should be suited to the room for which it is intended as well as to the article. Portiers and bedspreads should be embroidered in arabesques, scrolls and bold, conventionalized designs that give a greater effect of richness and dignity than animals and birds.
There is no neater finish for sheets than the hemstitched edge, which divides favor with buttonholed scallops.
All white embroidery on colored denim sofa pillows is appropriate. Battenburg, boniton and linen laces are in favor for table and bed linen.—New York Tribune.”
Source: Little Falls Weekly Transcript. (Little Falls, Morrison Co., Minn.) December 27, 1898, SPECIAL TUESDAY EDITION, available at “Chronicling America: Historical American Newspapers” at the Library of Congress. Image and text provided by the Minnesota Historical Society.