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Making Vintage Kitchen Towels

Several weeks ago I came across a large bolt of vintage fabric that I knew I had to have.  The linen was new-old stock from the 1950s with a lovely green-striped pattern along the edges.  In my mind I was already turning this fabric into something for my kitchen, because the cream colored background and the green-striped edging of the linen looked like it would be an exceptional match with some of the green kitchenalia that I collect.


I love how creative some people can get with their hand stitching, embroidery and various sewing creations.  Unfortunately I don't fall into the category of being adept with a needle and thread, so I rely on knowing people who are.  


After approaching a local seamstress about what I had in mind, she quickly walked me through what she was going to do.  The 10 yards of fabric would be cut into 1 yard pieces, and each piece would then get a stitched hem to create the kitchen towels of my dreams.  Since I specifically asked for a 1/4" seam (above), the seamstress told me that she would take 1/2" from each edge, and fold that extra 1/4" inward to give the towel a sturdy, crisp edge.


You can see the extra 1/4" fold that was given to each edge.  Once they were stitched with a cream colored thread, each towel was then pressed with a professional steam iron.  Done!


My "vintage" 1950s tea/kitchen towels are ready for duty.  They are in such perfect condition that I won't hesitate to gently use them however I see fit throughout the kitchen.  At almost 36" in length, the towels are large enough and undeniably sturdy to use as "lapkins" for an informal lunch.

They look great with my yellowware, my enamelware, and, of course, my jadeite.



Keep an eye out for large pieces of fabric from yesteryear at vintage shops, online and at yard sales.  If you ever come across any that speak to you, buy the fabric and either make placemats, table runners, napkins or tea towels with them.  Your new-old kitchen towels are going to look fantastic in the kitchen.


Happy Collecting! 

Comments

  1. Oh my gosh, that cream and green is just perfect with your vintage pieces! I had a dear friend make me a similar set in red, but with more of a tea-dyed look. Congrats! @eurocar.rescue

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