
CLARK’S O.N.T. · J. & P. COATS · BOOK No. 259 · 10¢
The book opens with a vivid invitation to brighten a home with intricate crochet and tatting, promising jewel‑like lace made by “agile fingertips.” Drawing on mid‑century American thread brands, it supplies clear material lists and a glossary of stitches that feel both nostalgic and practical. Readers are guided through the fundamental techniques of forming delicate motifs—seed pearls, simple rounds, and graceful corners—before moving on to larger compositions. The layout balances concise written directions with helpful diagrams, making it approachable for beginners while still offering depth for seasoned hands.
As the patterns unfold, the book presents a series of interconnected projects, from a modest 7‑inch doily to an elaborate 12‑by‑18‑inch centerpiece, each stitched in fine mercerized cotton. Step‑by‑step instructions walk the crafter through each round, join, and edging, emphasizing timing, tension, and the subtle art of thread selection. By the end, listeners will feel equipped to create their own heirloom‑quality lace pieces that add a quiet elegance to any setting.
Language
en
Duration
~54 minutes (52K characters)
Series
Coats & Clark's book ; no. 259.
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Original publisher
New York: The Spool Cotton Company, 1949.
Credits
Bob Taylor, Lisa Corcoran, Charlene Taylor and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net
Release date
2023-08-18
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Best known for vintage crochet, knitting, and tatting booklets, this publishing name helped bring practical needlework patterns into many American homes. Its slim pattern books, often sold at low cost, are now prized by crafters and collectors alike.
View all books
by Spool Cotton Co.

by Spool Cotton Co.

by Arthur W. (Arthur Wesley) Dow

by Catharine Esther Beecher, Harriet Beecher Stowe

by George Thornburgh

by Franklin K. (Franklin Knowles) Young

by H. (Hezekiah) Harvey