Living in the Text: Godey's 1860

Recently I was looking for a specific quote in Godey's Lady's Book. I know, living history problems, am I right!? I was struck by how many details I've missed or scrolled by because they were not necessarily what I needed at that moment. Upon further reflection, I decided to do a post about this dilemma.

Just like with my monthly reading, I'd like to do a monthly "Living in the text." What does that mean? Stuff that catches my eye, things that are interesting or different, snippets. Perhaps a question that I cannot answer now, but could link to another thing I've seen. I could almost see this as a sort of collage, especially if I wanted to print it all out and put it on a board. I would not call this an academic endeavor, more like me connecting with a primary resource. I've found that even a casual glance at something can have beautiful results.

So here are my little bites from Godey's Lady's Book, 1860. I hope something catches your eye or even inspires you to try a new project! At the very least, maybe you'll be entertained by my commentary.

Click HERE for the link to the text.

I'm in love with this floral wreath design with the bird in the center. 

Carrying a love note?

I don't crochet but it sort of reminds me of beadwork.

You mean all I have to do is just wrap some fabric around wire?

And that's the whole project?

*Smacks face on directions

I've seen molds like these at the antique store and think they're adorable!

Now will I make a jelly or pudding? Probably not.

But maybe to decorate my house?

A thaumatrope! I definitely have to try one of these.

19th century parenting advice...

and it's actually pretty good! Who knew that treating your kids well

would result in happier children?

I know this isn't EXACTLY the same, but it sort of reminds me

of that sheer dress Glenna has in her collection. And upon reading the description

it sounds even more similar!

This is a beadwork technique I've been itching to try. Also, flowers!

I LOVE when we get a sneak peek through the advertisement. By giving

a dollar amount and description, it helps us better understand how these

machines were viewed by people who advertised in 1860.

I have all the supplies to make this just sitting in my craft room.

I could literally go home today and just make one.

Is it lazy? Is it busy? Is it the fact that I can't see my desk 

because it is piled with tons of supplies and projects already?

You can decide, reader.

Hey there crocheting friends! Want to make me something? :)

3 cups of strong coffee AT EACH MEAL?

FOR THE CHILDREN?

I can barely drink one without shaking.

But I also wonder what a child with three cups of coffee looks like...

I wonder what this would look like on silk?

There it is! I've definitely used this shape to create little baskets.

They're fragile things, but I suppose perfect for cards.

When your flounce game is on point.

It never ceases to amaze me how this magazine tries to encompass every aspect

of 19th-century life. There's even an article in here entitled

"Draperies, Curtains, and Blinds." But it also reminds me of modern magazines,

so have things really changed at all?

I am so HERE for this design.

This reader wishes a receipt now too.

I'm thinking about reproducing this comb. I've done something similar,

and I think I have the supplies left over.

A doll pen wiper? A little creepy, mixed with practical. 

In all seriousness, I love the tiny little hat and ribbons flowing behind it.

I've seen a few bead work originals that look similar. 

It makes sense that they are made for the berries, especially when lined.

This reminds me of the teen magazines of today.

How to tell if he likes you? Yes or no?

But in a much more poetic way.

The Greek key pops up over and over again.

I saw this and just HAD to include it. This article discussed the

time differences between hand and machine sewing. What's really impressive

is how they estimated to the *minute, and this is me realizing that it took me

much longer than 10 hours and 23 minute to make a silk dress!

This would be a nice little spring project!

I actually own at least one of these in my collection. It's done with beads too, though I've seen a few complete on punch paper. As soon as one pops up again, I'll buy it!

This actually sounds pretty delicious, and not far from a modern recipe I've seen in the past.

I'm liking the motif and how it incorporates the initials. There are so many

designs for handkerchiefs that I enjoy but have zero intention

of ever making...

Fun fact: This is eerily similar to the watch-case published in January of 1860.

I suppose it's easier to just remake the design?

Or maybe this style was just really popular this year.

My friend Anna makes little pin cushion creatures.

They're lovely!

~Kristen