A huswif, a zip pouch, a needlework tool roll and a tote bag …

It hasn’t all quilts been shared at our January meetings …

Helen rounded up some French General scraps and stitched
them into a ‘huswif’ to hold some of her needlework
tools. It closes with a robust snap fastener.

The term “hussif” (abbreviation for housewife) first appeared 

in print in the Oxford English Dictionary in 1749 suggesting 

that it had already been in common use. “Hussif” was not the 

only term used. Its other known names were: “huswif” 

(or “huswife”), “hussive” and “housewife”. 

The Hyland House Museum

Chris made a beautiful flat-bottomed zip pouch
 in pastel tones …

… and included pickets and lining in apricot.

 

Pat’s needlework tool roll is a modern evolution of the huswif -
a fabric roll to keep needlework tools together and protect them.

Cat lover Pat used some of her feline stash
in the clam shells and pockets.

During the holidays, Carol W decided to make a blouse
she had been thinking about for some time.
 As she searched her fabric cupboard, a panel printed
with vintage sewing machines caught her attention.
She really did want to make that blouse, but somehow
she stitched up a tote bag instead … and the blouse
still hasn’t been made, but the fabric for it
is still in that cupboard somewhere.