Rensselaer Republican, Volume 16, Number 8, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 1 November 1883 — HOME DECORATIONS. [ARTICLE]

HOME DECORATIONS.

A pretty mat, intended for the top oi a table, is made of drab felt. The edge is cut ip sharp points; between these points are placed -soft little tassels made of high-coloted crewell. The border of the mat is made by working with gay embroidery silks any pattern which suits the fancy of the maker. Thf old-fashioned cross-stitch, or some modification of the feather-stich, is pretty. A pretty chair-back is made of ap antique lace stripe put over silk. Have the lace Ip the center and on the silk stripes of the same width at feach side; embroider a pretty vine. This is lovely, made of the lace and blue silk, with sprays of small pink buds, dr of cardinal satin with daisies and butter-cups embroidered on it. . The top is turned down and hemmed, and the botton may be finished'with lace, or be made in points with a tassel on each point. A handsome panel for the wall is made of a strip of black satin 15 inches long and 7 inches wide. On this is embroidered in silk a bunch of pinks. The top and bottom of the panel are finished with bands of scarlet plush, about two inches wide. A brass wire is fastened to the top, and a silk cord to hang it by. On the bottom are fine silk balls of v lt rions sh:ides of red.Tlie panel should be’ lined with some material oi sufficient body to keep it smooth. Another elegant panel is made of pale blue satin or plush, with a bird and its nest painted on it in water colors. Table-cover.-—Take sixteen blocks of cretonne one quarter square. Arrange them so there will be a landscape on each of the four corners. In putting the blocks together lay one edge over the other and sew. Line with Turkeyred cotton. Put black dress braid down each seam and across, also around the side of border next to blocks. Sew firm on-each side of braid, feather-stitch braid with shaded yellow, red and green embroidery silk. ‘ Finish the lower edge of border with narrow ball fringe. This makes a lovely cover.for mpst anything, and can be made smaller if desired. A toilet set, which is very pretty and tasteful for a birthday gift, is made of blue satin. The set consists of a pincushion and two mats; line the mate with blue silesia, and trim the edge with Valenciennes lace; on one mat work in outline-stich a small horseshoe, work this with olive and pink embroidery silks. Do not put the horseshoe in the center of the mat, but at one side The words “Good Luck” should be worked in the rim of horseshoe The other mat may be prettily ornamented by embroidering a fan on it The cushion should have the monogram of the owner on it, and at each corner put a satin bow, and a frill of lace around the edge of the cushion.