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idle hands was an oft-heard phrase in the 19th century and the needlework left
behind by the ladies of the period is proof. Take a tip from these ladies and
find a project to keep you busy in camp. Projects to improve your camp impression
can be as easy as scraping lint for bandages or as complex as knitting a pair
of socks and hand-sewing a man’s shirt. At right is a needlework project from history’s design book that can easily be reproduced in camp. This design was used as a fundraiser by various abolition societies. It combines the message of abolition with a useful household tool, the potholder.
We have seen this design worked in a number of variations and stitching styles including cross stitch and chained outline as well as the fill stitching shown in this recreated sample. Ladies also took liberty with the design by changing the size and placement of the figures and the lettering. Make it as plain or fancy as your station in life requires.
Click here for printable pattern in pdf format
Once your needlework is finished, seem up three sides, slip in a pad of wool or cotton batting and sew closed the final seam. Finished potholders can be used in camp, as a gift or as a fundraiser for your unit.
Members of the public will stop and look over your shoulder to see your work in progress, which gives you an opportunity to discuss slavery, the abolition movement and women’s work on this issue.
Now Fanny and Vera know that this pattern will not be applicable to all reenactors, but the idea of busy hands for the cause translates to all. Find a project that helps your cause and use it as a launching pad for public interaction.
