A couple of months ago I purchased on ebay a catalog of perforated patterns from the M. J. Cunning Co. of Cincinnati, Ohio. Included in the sale were 2 groups of actual perforated patterns — the holes are so tiny that I imagine the pouncing powder must have been very fine. Although there is no date on the catalog, I found an ad in a 1906 Home Needlework Magazine which states the company was established in 1880. Since the price on the advertisement (15ยข) is the same as my catalog, I assume the catalog was published in the late 1800s to early 1900s. I looks a lot like the J. F. Ingalls pattern catalog.
The catalog is large at 10″ x 15″ and, although the 76 pages have become very dark with age, it is in amazingly good condition. The printing is not perfect and the designs are packed onto the pages — but this is a catalog, of course, and not meant to be a source for copying patterns.
It is a slow process to lighten the pages without losing detail on the patterns, but I am gradually working my way through the book. It’s something I like to do in bed late at night which my husband thinks is crazy. It can be tedious, but it’s also very satisfying. I hope my embroiderer readers will enjoy them — I think they are a treasure.
What a wonderful find! I’ve always wanted to know more about perforated patterns…thanks for the info on the small size holes.The patterns are just wonderful.
These are very pretty! I love the girl with the parasol!
What a lovely find – thank you so much for sharing these!
Wonderful assortment of patterns, Martha. Thank you ๐
You’re doing a wonderful job of cleaning up the images. There’s so many beautiful designs. ๐
Those really are a treasure! It’s wonderful that they are still around and that you are preserving them. The girl with the parasol caught my eye as well. I also love many of the flowers.
Just found a Perforated Stamping Pattern for Embroider Packet No. 4 Designs for sprays and Scallops Has no makes name on it or date but states it was sold at Kresge’s for 10 cents. Any idea who made this kit and what year?