Author Description

Originally published in 1939, this book advises women living in the country on how they can best use the natural resources around them. Not only for financial reasons, but for a sense of the pride and pleasure of creation. 'There is no doubt that some of the arts practised, especially the minor arts, have arisen directly out of the strong wish to make something, and above all, "something out of nothing," i.e. out of nothing bought.' In 1939, as is the case today, there was a fear that these 'old arts' such as weaving and spinning, were in danger of being lost, and this book aims to address that issue. Contents Include: Wool - Flax, Cotton, Hemp - Hides and Skins - Wood and Bark - Various Animal Products - Various Vegetable Products - Mineral Products - "Something out of Nothing" - The Use of Vegetable Dyes by Mrs. Violetta Thurstan - The Romance of the Patch-Work Quilt by Mrs. Elston F. Holton