Helpful Advice

In this time of year when we might nostalgically look to the past and carry on family traditions, enjoy reading this advice from a 1949 Singer Sewing Manual:

Prepare yourself mentally for sewing. Think about what you are going to do...never approach sewing with a sigh or lakadaisically. Good results are difficult when indifference predominates. Never try to sew with a sink full of dirty dishes or beds unmade. When there are urgent housekeeping chores, do these first so your mind is free to enjoy your sewing...When you sew, make yourself as attractive as possible. Put on a clean dress. Keep a little bag full of French chalk near your sewing machine to dust your fingers at intervals. Have your hair in order and your face looking fresh. If you are constantly fearful that a visitor will drop in or your husband will come home and you will not look neatly put together, you will not enjoy your sewing as you should.

I dare say some things do change...(although I'd have to agree that good results are difficult when indifference predominates.)