Sources of the Past
Drawing from historical sources from the Caroline Simpson Library, the MHNSW Soft Furnishings volunteers create, re-create and maintain existing furnishings for our historic houses using a variety of skills such as tatting, knotting, knitting, pin-tucking, crocheting, pinking, stitching, stuffing, embroidering.
The soft furnishing projects undertaken by the group are informed by 19th century sources and produced through the deep knowledge and expert skills of our volunteers. See the Soft Furnishings volunteers at work in the wonderful surrounds of Elizabeth Bay House. Hear spot talks by the coordinator of the group, Joanna Nicholas and take the opportunity to see original sources from the Caroline Simpson Library: pattern books, household guides, trade catalogues, domestic and upholsterers’ manuals, historical textile samples along with a rich array of other materials including silk, calico, moreen, glazed chintz, horsehair, holland, vellum, straw, even possum skin.
This program is presented as part of Sydney Craft Week.
Members get more: Members enjoy presale access and a 20% discount on tickets.
Related
Watch pockets
Watch pockets hung on the head cloth of a four-post bedstead and originally served in place of bedside tables, which were uncommon in the 19th century
Stitching for our house museums
For almost 15 years, a dedicated group of volunteers has gathered to sew, crochet, knit, embroider and stuff historically authentic soft furnishings for our houses
A stitch in time
Tatting, knotting, knitting, pin-tucking, crocheting, pinking, stitching, stuffing, embroidering … needles fly at Elizabeth Bay House