Antique and Vintage Sewing Tools

In addition to needle cases, scissors, thimbles, and pin cushions, other sewing tools such as rulers, bodkins, clamps, and thread winders can be highly collectible. The most valuable items in this genre date from the Victorian era, the heyday of sewing. Look for whole sets of items, often boxed in decorative sewing boxes or etui cases, and engraved items, which sometimes bear the name or initials of an affluent seamstress.

Show & Tell

Cast Iron Spool Holder -- 1776 "A Stitch In Time Saves Nine" - Sewingby epson233
in Sewing
Antique Thread Corder - Sewingby epson233
in Sewing
Sewing Etui - Sewingby epson233
in Sewing
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Interviews & Articles

Antique Sewing Machine Collector Harry Berzack on Singers and Manhattans

I work for a sewing machine distribution company that was started by my late father. We mainly distribute industrial sewing machin… [more]

Angry Chicken's Amy Karol on Sewing, Vintage Slips, and Her Apron Obsession

I think I started collecting vintage aprons seriously probably in 1991, my first year of college. I was an absolute junkie for vin… [more]



Best of the Web (“Hall of Fame”)

Sewing Machine Collector

Sewing Machine Collector

Geoff and Norma Dickens' reference site on vintage toy sewing machines from the late 1800s. Browse the images alpha… [read review or visit site]

Sensibility Vintage Images

Sensibility Vintage Images

An extensive collection of photos and ephemera illustrating changing fashion styles from 1795 to 1959. Includes por… [read review or visit site]



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