You'll Want It For Christmas! - 1958 Good Housekeeping

"What a Christmas gift!"
Nobody said you couldn't have a present too...you could use this to leave a hint...

Make It With Sequins, Trims, and Glitter - 1965 Oldies but Goodies!

"Almost every department, dime, and hobby store carries supplies of sequins, shells, rickrack, gold braid, and other trimmings; as well as glue, and glitter of all colors. Combine these items with Christmas ornaments and beads, tinsel, metallic string, foil, and other seasonal package or tree decorations, and you can make many clever gifts, party centerpieces, and gay decorations for your home this coming holiday."
Since I was around in 1965 these bring back memories for me, but if you are a youngster these crafts might be new, or at least new for your kids. Have fun!

Fashion To The Rescue - 1958 Good Housekeeping

"At the very last minute, you discover, to your horror, that an important gift is still unbought or that you have nothing to wear for the Big Day."
This top only works if you have that chaise to lean on...but if you are OK in the lavish furniture department then by all means make this "flattering little party top"!

You Can Make The Most Beautiful Stole - 1958 Good Housekeeping

"For the gala season, transform a length of lovely satin into a rich, sweeping stole that could be the happiest kind of surprise for someone special."
You could make this for that someone special or even for yourself, be ready for Christmas parties or New Years galas!

Make Belle Of The Ball Skirts - 1958 Good Housekeeping

"For the biggest evenings, little ball gowns are simply sweeping skirts of tulle, richly trimmed, and worn with minimal matching tops."
All it takes is 10 yards of tulle and some 'rich trimming' to make something for YOU this year!

Gifts, Novelties and Toys - 1949 Lily Design Book

"For Children's Laughter - Five Easily Made and Washed Toys". From Lily Design Book 23 First Edition Copyright 1949. But these ideas are timeless!

The Party's Never Over!

Today is my Birthday...so everybody celebrate!

Make Christmas Angels - 1966 KAP Kraft Books

"Nine little heralders to grace your home."

Christmas Cards - Make Them Yourself! 1966 - KAP Kraft Books

"You can know real happiness when you make a special card for someone nice, even if you cannot afford a gift"

Make Your Own Christmas Trees - 1966 - KAP Kraft Books

If you are as old as I am you might remember these sorts of little craft books packed with projects. There are lots of charming vintage ideas here for you (the Tin Can Tree) or to make with the kids (frosting an upside down ice cream cone). Have fun, more to come!

Embroidered Angel for Christmas - 1938 The Needlewoman

"A Beautiful Design in the Modern Manner" - "In Softly Attractive Colourings and Easy Stitches"..."the recipients will be sure to preserve such original and lovely gifts".

Christmas Gifts to Make - 1938 Needlewoman Magazine

Goodness I've been gone a long time! I was working on a big project that I'll tell you about soon. But now it's time to get busy making gifts for Christmas, so here are some ideas from The Needlewoman Magazine, published in 1938. (I've added the instructions, click twice to enlarge...have fun!)

Aldens Catalog 1956-57 - Slips, Panties and Jayne Mansfield's Pajamas!

There is lots to love here, but it's not everyday we get to see what Jayne Mansfield wore to bed!
(Did you know she spoke five languages, and was a classically trained pianist and violinist?)

Aldens Catalog - 1956-57 - Subteens, Baby it's Cold Out There!

More stupendous Subteen fashion, this time we're looking at coats, for looking good in the chilly weather or the rain!