Mary White

Mary White (1869–1952) was an American craft author remembered for instructional books on traditional handwork. The Smithsonian Libraries and Archives lists her dates as 1869–1952 and credits her with How to Do Beadwork, published by Doubleday, Page & Company in 1904.

She is also known for How to Make Baskets, first published in the early 1900s and often associated with a chapter by nature writer Neltje Blanchan. The book presents basketry as a skill that can be learned through patient practice, with practical guidance on materials, tools, and techniques.

What stands out about her work is its simple teaching style. Rather than writing as a distant expert, she guides readers through craft processes in an encouraging, usable way, which helps explain why her books were reprinted and are still read by makers today.