My 101 year old, new best friend…

Sometimes, the best treasure is always found when you are looking for something else…
A couple of weeks ago, I spent hours trying to research the story behind Dorcas pins. I really wanted to discover old adverts, a lovely history and some detail about the lives of the people behind the product. I ended up so frustrated after 5 hours of searching. I learnt a little about pin manufacture and the origins of "distribution of labour"… really interesting but not what I was looking for.
But you know, just when I was thinking, "Well, what a complete waste of time", I stumbled across a real treasure… and she arrived in my letterbox today!
I can see myself spending hours enjoying Priscilla's company… yep, she's my new best friend! 

Whenever I go looking for antique needlework tools or notions, I don't find them. I feel very fortunate to have accidentally found a copy of a "Priscilla Fancy Work Catalogue" from 1910. 

This 99 page catalogue is in great condition and was too affordable to pass up… It doesn't feel like treasure unless it's at a great price. Don't you think?
Inside there is page upon page of illustrations, advertising transfers, stamped linen and kits for every kind of embroidered fancy you can imagine… heaven!

I think many an hour will be spent engrossed amongst these pretty pages… they're so very inspirational. 
I hope to learn some more about "The Priscilla Publishing Company" in the next weeks.
I just love history and discovering little details about the lives that people have led. I'm sure there will be lots of interesting tidbits of information hidden within these pages.


This particular issue has been owned or used by someone with the initials "E.B". It's wonderful to find her letter sketches on the cover.
Maybe she's an Elizabeth, Emily, Emmaline… I wonder.
I'm sure this isn't the last time you'll see snippets from this treasure… I'm in love and feel the need to tell everyone! Heehee!
Until next time,
Melissa  x