Antique Needlework Tools

Nerylla Taunton was acknowledged as a world class dealer with expertise int he filed of antique needlework implements, ladies' fashion accessories, lace and embroidery.

One of the world's leading experts in the field, Judith Miller began collecting in the 1960's and has since written more than 80 books, many of which are held in high regard by collectors and dealers. Since October 2002, DK and Judith Miller have launched several series, including the Antiques Price Guides, Collectibles Price Guides, and the DK Collector's Guides.

Judith Miller is the creator of the best-selling Miller's Antiques Price Guide and has written more than 80 books on antiques, including the DK Collector Guides and the Collectibles Price Guides.

Eleanor Johnson has been interestedin needlework and other handicrafts for most of her life. She is also the author of the Shire book 'Thimbles and Thimble Cases'.

Kay Sullivan's interest in needlework tools began at an early age when she spent many hours in her father's bespoke tailoring workshop just outside London, making new clothes for her dolls. Her father discouraged her from taking up sewing as a profession and she consequently studied English language and commercial subjects. After moving to Holland to be with her Dutch husband, she took a degree to enable her to start her own business, specialising in antique needlework tools and accessories. In the early 1980s, encouraged by collectors and friends, she issued a quarterly Magazine for collectors of thimbles and associated sewing tools. De Vingerhoed was published for ten years and achieved a worldwide membership. She has travelled in Europe and America, giving lectures to thimble, sewing tool and handwork societies. Today, she is considered an authority on the subject of needlework tools and runs a business from her home just outside Amsterdam.

Much more than just a routine task, sewing is an art form, a hobby, a business, a social activity, and a passion for many people. This collector's guide is a valuable tool for all sewing enthusiasts and collectors. There are a helpful glossary, bibliography, and index provided. -John Alvey

Bridget McConnel's fascination for sewing tools of all types led her, with her mother, to start the Thimble Society in 1981. This is her second book for Schiffer Publishing.