I made embroidered handkerchiefs to give as keepsakes at my mom's funeral last month. I gave them to everyone as they entered the church and thanked them for coming. My mom was 92 and had died of Covid. As her only daughter, I was at the very front of the church, so I wasn't aware of how they were received, but I had hoped that if anyone needed to use them, they would. Not too long ago, I had a conversation with the funeral director, and she told me that she had never seen someone give out handkerchiefs before, but that she had also noticed many people use the hankies during the service. I was happy to hear that they had served the intended purpose.
This is amazing! My dad was a funeral director and I was happy to see a positive conversation about this. Sorry for your loss, but I am sure your mom is looking down and proud of you.
Its a nice lovely gesture for your mother... In church ..in funerals ..but more in wedings served handcerchief ..and when they are hand embroidered are very nice. I have colection from 1500 handdmbroidery handkerchief from oll the wofld
Great video, thank you! I’m a 60 year old Englishman and when I was sent off to prep school at 7 (I had to go to boarding school as my father was an officer in the British Army, sent to British outposts overseas) part of the long list of things we had to have in our tin trunks was a pile of white handkerchiefs with name tapes on them, so always having a handkerchief in my pocket feels completely natural to me and I always have one on me, right up to today. Apart from anything else they have 101 different uses (other than the ‘usual’ use) and as you rightly say, in this eco-conscious world of today what could be more sensible than a cloth that you can launder rather than a wad of throw-away paper tissues? I love the handkerchiefs you’ve made.
As someone with very sensitive skin I've been using handkerchiefs exlusively for years now after my grandma gave me a few. She's since passed so I've inherited all of her handkerchiefs and got some more at a charityshop in Wales too. They're a lifesaver during my summer allergy season because they don't rub the skin around my nose raw like tissues often do after a few days of using them.
They really are life savers! I always hated how tissues had little bits that got in my eyes, but handkerchiefs have been such a blessing! And hankies from grandparents are even more special. Each grandkid got one of my grandpa's (new) hankies when he passed, and it was such a sweet sentiment :)
I’m short on cash this year for Christmas but have plenty of fabric, so I’m making all my gifts this year. Shopping bags, make up removal pads, scrunches, facecloths and now I’m reminded of them; hankies. Thank you !
I am 30 this month and after being bearded and mustached for the last 12 years of my life and CONSTANTLY getting food and drinks around my mouth with no napkins I have realized I should have always carried handkerchiefs. I love sewing so I am going to make some.
I love my hankies! I’ve been using them for years, nice dainty linen antiques for daily life, and modern utilitarian cotton ones for my dusty, grimy work days.
Thank you for the tutorial! I wanted to begin hand embroidery, and I wanted to embroider a flower on an antique-looking handkerchief so I could have one of my first creations always with me. Again, thank you very much for the easy explanations!
My dad has always carried a handkerchief. I made a few for him as a Christmas gift. He loves them and uses them. I even bought some vintage ones for myself.
What a lovely video! I really enjoyed it, especially your anecdote made me giggle. I switched to handkerchiefs many years ago. Initially, because I wanted to reduce waste. I now found, that they are also much softer to the skin than paper ones. To everyone who is concerned about getting their pocket dirty: Fold your handkerchief in half twice (or more times depending on the size) and always use the inside for… the thing. This also creates much less bulk.
I've found myself using a bandana in the manner of a handkerchief, as I often wear them during chores or yardwork as opposed to fashion accessory. The sensibility of having fine quality/natural textiles around the home has sparked a revival of hand-sewn projects for me the last few years. RIght now i'm making my own embroidered handkerchief out of linen scrap, and will likely make more to give as Christmas gifts this year. I think they make a unique statement!
I remember having a teacher that used handkerchief for blowing his nose and was against disposable tissue. I have an handkerchief but I wouldn't use it for that, it was a gift from a neighbor when a was little and it's has really fine embroidery on it! I was really happy when I received it!
I grew up carrying a handkerchief/bandana in my pocket wherever I went. I think I picked it up from spending time at my grandparent’s farm. My wife noticed this when we were first dating and since it reminded her of her grandad, she had a few monogrammed as the first gift she ever gave me. About a year ago I started sewing and have made several for myself and gifts something practical but also thoughtful and personal. I’m going to try my hand at the pulled thread technique you showed. Looks like a “classic” hankie. Thanks.
I think handkerchiefs sound lovely, but imagining blowing my nose into one and then putting it back in my pocket makes me shiver. I love the doctor who fabric you chose for yours!
I don't tend to use them for full on nose blowing - I agree, feels kinda ick. But they are amazing for seasonal allergies when my eyes are watering all the time.
In 2020 when toilet paper was disappearing from the shelves in stores, I pulled out my collection of thrifted handkerchiefs and my mothers old ones. My husband and I have been using handkerchiefs ever since. I have made many and purchased some too. I have made them for my whole family and given them as gifts. Handkerchiefs are great.
Hope you'll see this. I would like to do this, to use cloth for everything. What's your process for cleaning (holding dirties in a spot, soaking {or not}, scrubbing, etc.)? Thanks very much.
@@boadiceameridionalis3732 I have been using new hankies that I have been making out of modern fabric. I found the old ones were a little fragile. The ones I've made are of cotton, lawn or even quilting cotton. I just toss them in with my underwear in the machine to wash with a mild detergent. If I get blood or other staining spot on them, I rinse it in cold water and it usually comes out right away. I love the cloth hankies. They feel great and just make me happy.
@@julietokumaru3855 Thanks so much! This makes perfect sense, and eliminates some yuck factor. I have some flannel that I might turn into hankies for when I'm under the weather. Leave plain cotton or other easy wash fabric for everyday use.
Cloth handkerchiefs and napkins really ought to be brought back. And sure, if you have a really bad cold go ahead and take the easy disposable option, but for everyday use when you're not sick? They don't really tend to become that disgusting, and they take up very little space in the washing machine if you just throw them in with the bed sheets or towels or anything else needing high temperatures. And yes, I threw napkins in with handkerchiefs. Most of us can easily use the same table napkin for a week - unless you're a messy eater, I guess - so that also ought to be a no-brainer. And no, cloth napkins don't have to be starched and ironed and all fancy. Sometimes a napkin is... Just a napkin!
Yes! I love the feeling cloth napkins - and place mats too! Of course you toss them in the laundry if they're dirty - I think some people must forget that's an option lol
Yes, cloth napkins! and don't forget cloth hand towels in the bathroom for guests. I have a separate waste basket for the cloth towels. Guests learn to use them pretty quickly if you put a crumpled one in the proper basket. Extended family and frequent guests usually use one for the whole day, they each have their own spot on the rack, it's so cute.
Love your halfling attire, you make a good hobbit and cute sense of humor. Thanks for the instructions. In school we were taught to square the material on the grain, by pulling a thread vertically and horizontally to obtain a perfect square that would not twist, roll up, ruffle and warp the hem. So this technique is not just for the linen pulled thread work you did.
I just got a vintage one from my first visit to the Jazz Age Lawn party with pretty embroidery on it. Now that I have one, happy to learn more about them. I want to use it but it seems a bit delicate for every day so I may use it for special occasions~.
I purchased a hankerchief, but I did it for work. I work with a lot of sauces and they often stain me at random and I dont like bringing people food with stained hands. I also use it for cleaning quick spills and glasses on the move. After work I wash it, then use it for touching things like doors and walk signs. Definitely considering getting more handerchiefs for day to day uses bc life is messy.
I started collecting hankies a while ago. When I was growing up they used to tie our weekly milk money (25 cents) in the end of a hankie and pin it to your skirt waist band to ensure it made it to school. I also carry a couple hankies to funerals.
I have perpetual allergies and paper tissues always wrecked the skin of my nose. For over 9 years my husband and I have used handkerchiefs. I bought a few dozen white cottons ones and simply dyed them as they got stained from years of use. They last forever we still have all the originals and simply bought more as some would get forgotten in cloths or drawers for months at a time. I always have 1-2 on me and some stashed in various places of the house/car incase I need an extra. I may try hand making some from my dyed scrap linen to go with the historically inspired cloths I make.
In the 50s as a child you could buy handkerchiefs as gifts that were affordable!😊Thanks for the video and glad for the practical and beauty for men and women of their use.
@janetyaegel7811, my Mama and aunts used to give each other pretty hankies for holidays. I still have some of the St. Valentine's Day and St. Patrick's Day ones. They tucked nicely into a letter or greeting card too, back when a postage stamp was 15 cents. 😉
My dad always carried two handkerchiefs, one for him self and another one for someone who might need it. It could be if he needed it for me, his child or anyone in need on his way. And me and my husband always carries a handkerchief with us.
I loved your video very much, and I have saved it under "favorites". Just this passed week I switched over to handkerchiefs. But the handkerchiefs on Amazon are so thin, small, and cheap - not well made at all. So I bought some fabric and lace to make some for me and my mom. It is not difficult to clean and reuse. I wash them in hot soapy water every night (I use about 8 to 12 daily), smooth them flat, and let dry overnight on a rod. I have a cute jar for storing fresh ones in the bathroom, and a jar for used ones in which I can sanitize the jar along with the nightly washing. I'll let you know how my handkerchiefs turn out! Thank you! 😃
My dad, currently in his early 60s, has always used handkerchiefs. A fresh one each day, but I still find it unsettling. My compromise is a box of cloth squares to be used in lieu of napkins, paper towels, and tissues while at home (used once, then washed), and disposable tissues when out of the house. Much less waste while avoiding the ick. Most of the cloths are tie dyed handkerchiefs my kids do each summer.
I use jeans for drying hands, my allergies are a snotty mess and I don't dab my eyes ;-D. But I wholly see your point and I think one will be coming with me for other purposes asap.
Such nice ideas for hankies ! Have purchased new ones (trouble finding all cotton or linen, who wants polyester in it) and vintage. Many have the crocheted thread loops and have tried that. Also asked fabricstore about the "coating" have on their fabrics, she said on all linen, dont know if on their cottons, but I dont want it on my fabrics I use. Have an old organic cotton sheet was going to mend but is so soft, will try into hankies . Have fun on all your projects !
I use handkerchiefs exclusively. The only reason not to, in my mind, is if the stuff that you blow out of your nose is actually infectious, e.g. if you have a bad cold and are in the infectious stage. Then using a hanky for a prolonged period of time and mixing with people might spread the infection. But then who throws away a tissue after only a single use & in a suitably responsible way? Personally, I think you can use hankies responsibly even when having a cold. I don't get colds very often but my nose starts running if it's even only slightly cold outside. So I value my hankies - I have one in every jacket pocket...
This will probably sound funny but I use handkerchiefs as reusable facial masks. All I did was cut out the holes for my eyes and nose, then soak in my desired serum. I find they not only absorb the liquid better, but are an excellent way to recycle old cotton shirts, and are better for the environment as you can just pop the masks in a basin of hot water, dry, and they'll be ready to use next time. When they get stretched out a bit too much to be used as a mask, I cut them into little squares to use for applying facial toner.
That sounds like an awesome use for them! I've always been kind freaked out by how the sheet masks feel, and I can imagine having it be a cotton or linen base being so much more comfortable!
I rarely buy "Kleenex" since my budget is pretty tight and there are other things that are more important. During Covid I remember standing across the street from one of my neighbors and discussing what we would do when the disposable paper products ran out. My husband is a detailer and has plenty of microfiber towels that were no longer acceptable for using on cars due to warn out fibers scratching the paint. We would repurpose the towels for household cleaning, runny noses, or anything else that a disposable paper product would be used for. Now my funds are even tighter and with flu season just around the corner I thought I would use thrifted flannel shirts to make up some every day hankies. I also have some linen that was given to me that I will be making "special" day hankies and doing some embroidery on them. I find that handkerchiefs are much kinder on the nose. Especially the flannel ones. If they turn out nice, I may make some up for Christmas presents.
1:52 In one of his poems, Catullus furiously berates an acquaintance for stealing his prized Spanish handkerchiefs and flaunting them as if they were family heirlooms. He ends the poem with a demand to return them, or he's going to harass him with dozens more diss tracks. I thought that was pretty funny.
There were some really entertaining parts of this video. I hope to be making some handkercheifs soon and I really liked what you did with the plain white one you made and how you made the decorative holes.
I would love to carry a handkerchief!!! I often find myself needing to wipe things ?? No one warns you about how useful a handkerchief might be in life l o l. but, besties… where am I supposed to keep it,? My pockets are so small or nonexistent, and my purse is … dirty (personal problem lol). I know people generally wear them nowadays as an accessory with a suit, but I’m not a formal person, nor a suit person…. Would love any nifty suggestions 😂 #handkerchiefrevival2k22
Sadly I have not solved that problem yet. 🤷🏼♀️ I too have tiny and nonexistent pockets, and my purse…needs a good cleaning out. Honestly I just shove one into my purse anyway, since my main use right now is drying my hands. Although I did keep my smaller hankie in my back pocket during the summer and it seemed to work pretty well.
I guess I will start sewing hankies now. My dad always used them. I used to iron and fold them for him. I’m tired of buying Kleenex so often. Not eco-friendly.
I’d imagine the current concerns around (let’s call it Rona Panini to avoid a negative algorithm hit) the spread of panini and other viruses. I too long for the return of all the frilly, lacy, embroidered things. If we live in an era of swiping right, could we not at least add a touch of gentility?
Making hankies and cloth napkins is on my to-do list (once I finish rearranging the living room to fit my sewing). Great tutorial. Are you taking part in CoSy (Costume Symposium), here on The YT, Aug 19-22? - Cathy (&, accidently, Steve), Ottawa/Bytown
@@HalflingSeamstress I say go for it. There's apparently some sort of organizing whatever going on The FB and Instagram. Reach out and connect. If you're stuck for a topic maybe do a how-to for hand stitching? Take part. Have fun. Pick up a few more viewers...
I would love to use handkerchiefs rather than tissue paper! However, I feel like they would be too gross too quickly since I have several allergies which often cause my nose to bleed. 😢 Any tips on how to clean potentially bloody hankies or should I simply try to find black ones?
Peroxide is my go to for any kind of blood, but I have also made a hanky using black linen, which could definitely be an option. These days there's no rule on what colour hankies have to be, so I'd say go wild with whatever colour you like :)
Cold water right away works quite well. Dark hankies look kind of off putting when they are used, white spots, but it's a hanky, what do you expect? It's not like you are going around and showing everyone. Fold it then stuff it in your pocket and wash it.
Ich habe mir aus alter Bettwäsche viele Taschentücher genäht.... seit jahren habe ich keine Papiertaschentücher mehr... sie selbstgenähten finde ich besser für die Umwelt, da sie waschbar sind...😊😊😊
People are definitely ironing less these days, I’ve met people who have zero clue how to iron. And I’ll be honest, despite how fantastic they look all starched and pressed, I don’t really iron mine at all. Hand smooth them, and they look pretty decent.
@@HalflingSeamstress I am making a quilt top at the moment, kits of ironing. I'm so unused to it I've already managed to burn myself. Ironing is the worst. I'd rather clean toilets.
@@dees3179 I don’t mind the act of ironing, it’s the getting out the board & iron, finding a good spot, and then inevitably leaving the board up for a week and constantly tripping on it that I don’t like 😂
Q. Why are handkerchiefs not returning to popularity as an environmental and economic solution for our modern needs? A. Because we have not updated "the handkerchief" with modern fabric for modern needs. The fabric handkerchiefs one can purchase these days are as soft and comfortable as a crinkley dollar store tissue...and about as absorbent. Why would someone choose a thin and rough piece of fabric instead of a soft and absorbent one? I've been using handkerchiefs for more than 2 decades, and I have one word for you: FLANNEL. Girlfriend, y'all are making this wayyyyy too hard. If you get as excited as I do about the annual Flannelrama sale at JoAnn's Fabrics, you probably have whatever you need in your stash. Better yet -- just raid the remnants shelf for half-price flannel!!!! Or dig out those scraps from the flannel jammies you made during Covid lockdown! Sure...everyone else was making MASKS, but the SMART sewists were busy making jammies with the dream that we could say home making creative projects all day. (See, Mom!!! THIS is why I never throw out my scraps!!! I was right, and you were wrong!!!) Flannel is soft, affordable, absorbent, and the fabric version of teflon when it comes to stains and washability. Cut your flannel scraps into whatever size of squares or rectangles will make you happy. Did I say CUT???? Silly me!!!! Flannel is woven cotton. Too poor to own scissors? (Or are they lost in your crafting room among one of your many genius projects?) NOT A PROBLEM!!! Rip that sucker into the size you want. And fancy-dancy hemming? NOT NECESSARY when one is using flannel! The edges fray, but no one cares, because either the hankie is in your pocket or being used to wipe you nose -- and who is rude/weird enough to watch you do that with overinterested eagerness??? Someone in the comments mentioned ironing. Ironing???? Do you iron your jammies, too? I have more important things to do with my time than IRONING (like watching and commenting on RUclips videos). When hankerchiefs are so easy and cheap to make, it's easy to have a pile of them for a fresh hankie every day!
Let me say this... Handkerchiefs are the 'slobbyist' of disgusting things ever invented or used at a dinner table where food is eaten and passed around. How rude for people to even use them.
I have tried carrying around a handkerchief, but sadly, as it turned out, I rarely used it. Usually, when my hands are just wet with clean water (for example, after washing my hand), I just wipe them on the sides of my skirt (omg, how sloppy, I know :)); when they are dirty, like sticky after I eat an apple, I tend not to wipe them on my perfectly clean handkerchief, especially when the stain may never come out (such as with ink or coffee). Where I live, public bathrooms don't always have TP. A handkerchief would be useless in that situation. In my friend group, I'm usually the one who carries around tissue paper. I find that when I offer a friend in need handkerchief instead, they accept it, but the look in their eyes it's like, "I don't know where it's been?" So... These are the reasons I failed at switching to using handkerchief. It's such a shame, because the idea of it is so romantic and nostalgic. I gave it a go, but it's just not something for me. Maybe someone less lazy would find the transition easier. Perhaps just try it once, like me, and find out. :)
I honestly forget to use mine half the time too! Mostly because pants don't have pockets :P There are definitely some uses that I am reluctant to use them for - blowing my nose, sticky fingers... I'm not a full blown hankie convert yet, but I'm getting there :)
I made embroidered handkerchiefs to give as keepsakes at my mom's funeral last month. I gave them to everyone as they entered the church and thanked them for coming. My mom was 92 and had died of Covid. As her only daughter, I was at the very front of the church, so I wasn't aware of how they were received, but I had hoped that if anyone needed to use them, they would. Not too long ago, I had a conversation with the funeral director, and she told me that she had never seen someone give out handkerchiefs before, but that she had also noticed many people use the hankies during the service. I was happy to hear that they had served the intended purpose.
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
I am sorry for your loss. ❤❤❤❤❤ That is such a sweet and lovely gesture and gift. ❤❤❤❤
This is amazing! My dad was a funeral director and I was happy to see a positive conversation about this. Sorry for your loss, but I am sure your mom is looking down and proud of you.
Its a nice lovely gesture for your mother...
In church ..in funerals ..but more in wedings served handcerchief ..and when they are hand embroidered are very nice.
I have colection from 1500 handdmbroidery handkerchief from oll the wofld
The movement to bring back hankies has common cause with the movement to bring back pockets in women's clothing. I stand with both!
Absolutely! Hankies and practical pockets for all!
Historically pockets were originally a little sachet bag with drawstring carried on the wait band on the outside of the clothing.
Great video, thank you! I’m a 60 year old Englishman and when I was sent off to prep school at 7 (I had to go to boarding school as my father was an officer in the British Army, sent to British outposts overseas) part of the long list of things we had to have in our tin trunks was a pile of white handkerchiefs with name tapes on them, so always having a handkerchief in my pocket feels completely natural to me and I always have one on me, right up to today. Apart from anything else they have 101 different uses (other than the ‘usual’ use) and as you rightly say, in this eco-conscious world of today what could be more sensible than a cloth that you can launder rather than a wad of throw-away paper tissues? I love the handkerchiefs you’ve made.
This is so lovely
@@marigonzalez2607 hi, Im teenager now. I dunno why, feels weird & awkward to use handkerchief
As someone with very sensitive skin I've been using handkerchiefs exlusively for years now after my grandma gave me a few. She's since passed so I've inherited all of her handkerchiefs and got some more at a charityshop in Wales too. They're a lifesaver during my summer allergy season because they don't rub the skin around my nose raw like tissues often do after a few days of using them.
They really are life savers! I always hated how tissues had little bits that got in my eyes, but handkerchiefs have been such a blessing! And hankies from grandparents are even more special. Each grandkid got one of my grandpa's (new) hankies when he passed, and it was such a sweet sentiment :)
I’m short on cash this year for Christmas but have plenty of fabric, so I’m making all my gifts this year. Shopping bags, make up removal pads, scrunches, facecloths and now I’m reminded of them; hankies. Thank you !
I am 30 this month and after being bearded and mustached for the last 12 years of my life and CONSTANTLY getting food and drinks around my mouth with no napkins I have realized I should have always carried handkerchiefs. I love sewing so I am going to make some.
I love my hankies! I’ve been using them for years, nice dainty linen antiques for daily life, and modern utilitarian cotton ones for my dusty, grimy work days.
Nice! I’ve definitely been enjoying hankies lately- it’s so nice to hear other people doing the same!
Thank you for the tutorial!
I wanted to begin hand embroidery, and I wanted to embroider a flower on an antique-looking handkerchief so I could have one of my first creations always with me.
Again, thank you very much for the easy explanations!
My dad has always carried a handkerchief. I made a few for him as a Christmas gift. He loves them and uses them. I even bought some vintage ones for myself.
What a lovely video! I really enjoyed it, especially your anecdote made me giggle. I switched to handkerchiefs many years ago. Initially, because I wanted to reduce waste. I now found, that they are also much softer to the skin than paper ones. To everyone who is concerned about getting their pocket dirty: Fold your handkerchief in half twice (or more times depending on the size) and always use the inside for… the thing. This also creates much less bulk.
The handkerchiefs are beautiful. I hope they make a comeback. Thanks for sharing.
I've found myself using a bandana in the manner of a handkerchief, as I often wear them during chores or yardwork as opposed to fashion accessory. The sensibility of having fine quality/natural textiles around the home has sparked a revival of hand-sewn projects for me the last few years. RIght now i'm making my own embroidered handkerchief out of linen scrap, and will likely make more to give as Christmas gifts this year. I think they make a unique statement!
I remember having a teacher that used handkerchief for blowing his nose and was against disposable tissue.
I have an handkerchief but I wouldn't use it for that, it was a gift from a neighbor when a was little and it's has really fine embroidery on it! I was really happy when I received it!
Air dryers are not only loud, but they spray bacteria all around the place :p
I grew up carrying a handkerchief/bandana in my pocket wherever I went. I think I picked it up from spending time at my grandparent’s farm. My wife noticed this when we were first dating and since it reminded her of her grandad, she had a few monogrammed as the first gift she ever gave me. About a year ago I started sewing and have made several for myself and gifts something practical but also thoughtful and personal. I’m going to try my hand at the pulled thread technique you showed. Looks like a “classic” hankie. Thanks.
I think handkerchiefs sound lovely, but imagining blowing my nose into one and then putting it back in my pocket makes me shiver. I love the doctor who fabric you chose for yours!
I don't tend to use them for full on nose blowing - I agree, feels kinda ick. But they are amazing for seasonal allergies when my eyes are watering all the time.
I love handkerchiefs my grandmothers always kept me supplied. Now thanks to you I’m going to make my own!
In 2020 when toilet paper was disappearing from the shelves in stores, I pulled out my collection of thrifted handkerchiefs and my mothers old ones. My husband and I have been using handkerchiefs ever since. I have made many and purchased some too. I have made them for my whole family and given them as gifts. Handkerchiefs are great.
That's awesome! They really are great, and so handy for everyone!
Hope you'll see this. I would like to do this, to use cloth for everything. What's your process for cleaning (holding dirties in a spot, soaking {or not}, scrubbing, etc.)? Thanks very much.
@@boadiceameridionalis3732 I have been using new hankies that I have been making out of modern fabric. I found the old ones were a little fragile. The ones I've made are of cotton, lawn or even quilting cotton. I just toss them in with my underwear in the machine to wash with a mild detergent. If I get blood or other staining spot on them, I rinse it in cold water and it usually comes out right away. I love the cloth hankies. They feel great and just make me happy.
@@julietokumaru3855 Thanks so much! This makes perfect sense, and eliminates some yuck factor. I have some flannel that I might turn into hankies for when I'm under the weather. Leave plain cotton or other easy wash fabric for everyday use.
Threadpulling--- GENIUS! You are a 👑queen 👑. Thank you 💘💘💘
Thank you! I can't take credit for coming up with the idea, but I love sharing it with others!
I keep one in my purse that i embroidered my initials and flowers on. Love it.
Oh my gosh! I love this! I am going to go and get some linen after work and give this a try 😍😍 Thank you for the idea!
Thank you! It’s a delightfully addicting accessory to make!
@@HalflingSeamstress I love hankies to blowing my nose on
Cloth handkerchiefs and napkins really ought to be brought back. And sure, if you have a really bad cold go ahead and take the easy disposable option, but for everyday use when you're not sick? They don't really tend to become that disgusting, and they take up very little space in the washing machine if you just throw them in with the bed sheets or towels or anything else needing high temperatures.
And yes, I threw napkins in with handkerchiefs. Most of us can easily use the same table napkin for a week - unless you're a messy eater, I guess - so that also ought to be a no-brainer. And no, cloth napkins don't have to be starched and ironed and all fancy. Sometimes a napkin is... Just a napkin!
Yes! I love the feeling cloth napkins - and place mats too! Of course you toss them in the laundry if they're dirty - I think some people must forget that's an option lol
Yes, cloth napkins! and don't forget cloth hand towels in the bathroom for guests. I have a separate waste basket for the cloth towels. Guests learn to use them pretty quickly if you put a crumpled one in the proper basket. Extended family and frequent guests usually use one for the whole day, they each have their own spot on the rack, it's so cute.
Love your halfling attire, you make a good hobbit and cute sense of humor. Thanks for the instructions. In school we were taught to square the material on the grain, by pulling a thread vertically and horizontally to obtain a perfect square that would not twist, roll up, ruffle and warp the hem. So this technique is not just for the linen pulled thread work you did.
These are so darling! I'm going to try out that pulled thread embroidery! What a nice touch.
Thank you! Pulled thread embroidery really is so pretty and so much fun! I want to add it to all my linen projects now!
I just got a vintage one from my first visit to the Jazz Age Lawn party with pretty embroidery on it. Now that I have one, happy to learn more about them. I want to use it but it seems a bit delicate for every day so I may use it for special occasions~.
I love handkerchiefs, and am so glad you shared this cute video....
I purchased a hankerchief, but I did it for work. I work with a lot of sauces and they often stain me at random and I dont like bringing people food with stained hands. I also use it for cleaning quick spills and glasses on the move. After work I wash it, then use it for touching things like doors and walk signs. Definitely considering getting more handerchiefs for day to day uses bc life is messy.
That's awesome! I had a pair of towels in culinary school, for pretty much the same purpose, but using a good sturdy handkerchief would be brilliant!
I started collecting hankies a while ago. When I was growing up they used to tie our weekly milk money (25 cents) in the end of a hankie and pin it to your skirt waist band to ensure it made it to school. I also carry a couple hankies to funerals.
I have perpetual allergies and paper tissues always wrecked the skin of my nose. For over 9 years my husband and I have used handkerchiefs. I bought a few dozen white cottons ones and simply dyed them as they got stained from years of use. They last forever we still have all the originals and simply bought more as some would get forgotten in cloths or drawers for months at a time. I always have 1-2 on me and some stashed in various places of the house/car incase I need an extra. I may try hand making some from my dyed scrap linen to go with the historically inspired cloths I make.
I love handkerchiefs!
In the 50s as a child you could buy handkerchiefs as gifts that were affordable!😊Thanks for the video and glad for the practical and beauty for men and women of their use.
@janetyaegel7811, my Mama and aunts used to give each other pretty hankies for holidays. I still have some of the St. Valentine's Day and St. Patrick's Day ones. They tucked nicely into a letter or greeting card too, back when a postage stamp was 15 cents. 😉
My dad always carried two handkerchiefs, one for him self and another one for someone who might need it. It could be if he needed it for me, his child or anyone in need on his way.
And me and my husband always carries a handkerchief with us.
I loved your video very much, and I have saved it under "favorites". Just this passed week I switched over to handkerchiefs. But the handkerchiefs on Amazon are so thin, small, and cheap - not well made at all. So I bought some fabric and lace to make some for me and my mom. It is not difficult to clean and reuse. I wash them in hot soapy water every night (I use about 8 to 12 daily), smooth them flat, and let dry overnight on a rod. I have a cute jar for storing fresh ones in the bathroom, and a jar for used ones in which I can sanitize the jar along with the nightly washing. I'll let you know how my handkerchiefs turn out! Thank you! 😃
That sounds like a fantastic way of taking care of them! I'm so glad my little video has been so well received and helpful, thank you!
My dad, currently in his early 60s, has always used handkerchiefs. A fresh one each day, but I still find it unsettling. My compromise is a box of cloth squares to be used in lieu of napkins, paper towels, and tissues while at home (used once, then washed), and disposable tissues when out of the house. Much less waste while avoiding the ick.
Most of the cloths are tie dyed handkerchiefs my kids do each summer.
I really enjoyed this video, especially the lovely anecdote about your grandfather 😊
I use jeans for drying hands, my allergies are a snotty mess and I don't dab my eyes ;-D. But I wholly see your point and I think one will be coming with me for other purposes asap.
Thank you for sharing some wonderful history about a wonderful thing!
I've been making hankies for myself for quite a few years. I use cotton flannel. I love your video. Thank you!
My dad still carries them everywhere! I used to cringe at them when he would offer it to me, but now I'm trying to start using them myself!
Same, I used to feel awkward & Wei to use it
Such nice ideas for hankies ! Have purchased new ones (trouble finding all cotton or linen, who wants polyester in it) and vintage. Many have the crocheted thread loops and have tried that. Also asked fabricstore about the "coating" have on their fabrics, she said on all linen, dont know if on their cottons, but I dont want it on my fabrics I use. Have an old organic cotton sheet was going to mend but is so soft, will try into hankies . Have fun on all your projects !
I use handkerchiefs exclusively. The only reason not to, in my mind, is if the stuff that you blow out of your nose is actually infectious, e.g. if you have a bad cold and are in the infectious stage. Then using a hanky for a prolonged period of time and mixing with people might spread the infection. But then who throws away a tissue after only a single use & in a suitably responsible way? Personally, I think you can use hankies responsibly even when having a cold. I don't get colds very often but my nose starts running if it's even only slightly cold outside. So I value my hankies - I have one in every jacket pocket...
I have used hankies all my life, love the video
Thank you!
I am a great believer in hand kerchiefs, I love to have them on hand
This will probably sound funny but I use handkerchiefs as reusable facial masks. All I did was cut out the holes for my eyes and nose, then soak in my desired serum. I find they not only absorb the liquid better, but are an excellent way to recycle old cotton shirts, and are better for the environment as you can just pop the masks in a basin of hot water, dry, and they'll be ready to use next time. When they get stretched out a bit too much to be used as a mask, I cut them into little squares to use for applying facial toner.
That sounds like an awesome use for them! I've always been kind freaked out by how the sheet masks feel, and I can imagine having it be a cotton or linen base being so much more comfortable!
I rarely buy "Kleenex" since my budget is pretty tight and there are other things that are more important. During Covid I remember standing across the street from one of my neighbors and discussing what we would do when the disposable paper products ran out. My husband is a detailer and has plenty of microfiber towels that were no longer acceptable for using on cars due to warn out fibers scratching the paint. We would repurpose the towels for household cleaning, runny noses, or anything else that a disposable paper product would be used for. Now my funds are even tighter and with flu season just around the corner I thought I would use thrifted flannel shirts to make up some every day hankies. I also have some linen that was given to me that I will be making "special" day hankies and doing some embroidery on them. I find that handkerchiefs are much kinder on the nose. Especially the flannel ones. If they turn out nice, I may make some up for Christmas presents.
Made one as a gag gift for a friend and now am making more for my family. Love embroidering them
1:52 In one of his poems, Catullus furiously berates an acquaintance for stealing his prized Spanish handkerchiefs and flaunting them as if they were family heirlooms. He ends the poem with a demand to return them, or he's going to harass him with dozens more diss tracks. I thought that was pretty funny.
That sounds awesome, I love it!
Thank you for this tutorial! Beautiful work. Now I need to find some old lace.
There were some really entertaining parts of this video. I hope to be making some handkercheifs soon and I really liked what you did with the plain white one you made and how you made the decorative holes.
You've convinced me. Finding me some handkerchiefs
You had me at hand dryers. I need to History Up!
Loving this! Thanks for the tutorial 💛🤗
I remember when a handkerchief was safety pinned to your dress before school so it wasn't lost growing up.
I would love to carry a handkerchief!!! I often find myself needing to wipe things ?? No one warns you about how useful a handkerchief might be in life l o l. but, besties… where am I supposed to keep it,? My pockets are so small or nonexistent, and my purse is … dirty (personal problem lol). I know people generally wear them nowadays as an accessory with a suit, but I’m not a formal person, nor a suit person…. Would love any nifty suggestions 😂 #handkerchiefrevival2k22
Sadly I have not solved that problem yet. 🤷🏼♀️ I too have tiny and nonexistent pockets, and my purse…needs a good cleaning out. Honestly I just shove one into my purse anyway, since my main use right now is drying my hands. Although I did keep my smaller hankie in my back pocket during the summer and it seemed to work pretty well.
A tip from my Grandma, tuck it in your bra, under the strap.
Or your waist band.
“Mopping brows”, what an adorable phrase?????
In my house there are no paper handkershiefs or napkins. Disposable things give me some kind of alergy.
This is gold
Beautiful products and video !
My dad careys one or two in a pocket I have decided to have a set of handkerchiefs
I use hankies every day,your so right about many daily uses.i love to wash and iron mine .
It's such a satisfying feeling to iron them and have them go from wrinkly to super crisp and smooth!
I need to make some matched to my makeup for when I sweat my face off in Summer
I still use hankeys
I guess I will start sewing hankies now. My dad always used them. I used to iron and fold them for him. I’m tired of buying Kleenex so often. Not eco-friendly.
I’d imagine the current concerns around (let’s call it Rona Panini to avoid a negative algorithm hit) the spread of panini and other viruses.
I too long for the return of all the frilly, lacy, embroidered things.
If we live in an era of swiping right, could we not at least add a touch of gentility?
Making hankies and cloth napkins is on my to-do list (once I finish rearranging the living room to fit my sewing). Great tutorial.
Are you taking part in CoSy (Costume Symposium), here on The YT, Aug 19-22?
- Cathy (&, accidently, Steve), Ottawa/Bytown
Thank you so much! I've thought about doing CoSy (I loved CoCoVid last year), but it's one of those things that feels kind of big and scary :)
@@HalflingSeamstress I say go for it. There's apparently some sort of organizing whatever going on The FB and Instagram. Reach out and connect.
If you're stuck for a topic maybe do a how-to for hand stitching? Take part. Have fun. Pick up a few more viewers...
I would love to use handkerchiefs rather than tissue paper! However, I feel like they would be too gross too quickly since I have several allergies which often cause my nose to bleed. 😢 Any tips on how to clean potentially bloody hankies or should I simply try to find black ones?
Peroxide is my go to for any kind of blood, but I have also made a hanky using black linen, which could definitely be an option. These days there's no rule on what colour hankies have to be, so I'd say go wild with whatever colour you like :)
Cold water right away works quite well. Dark hankies look kind of off putting when they are used, white spots, but it's a hanky, what do you expect? It's not like you are going around and showing everyone. Fold it then stuff it in your pocket and wash it.
Start 6:00 to 7:40
Ich habe mir aus alter Bettwäsche viele Taschentücher genäht.... seit jahren habe ich keine Papiertaschentücher mehr... sie selbstgenähten finde ich besser für die Umwelt, da sie waschbar sind...😊😊😊
I think we’re too lazy to iron them. People iron far less generally so introducing something that needs ironing deliberately is unattractive.
People are definitely ironing less these days, I’ve met people who have zero clue how to iron. And I’ll be honest, despite how fantastic they look all starched and pressed, I don’t really iron mine at all. Hand smooth them, and they look pretty decent.
@@HalflingSeamstress I am making a quilt top at the moment, kits of ironing. I'm so unused to it I've already managed to burn myself. Ironing is the worst. I'd rather clean toilets.
@@dees3179 I don’t mind the act of ironing, it’s the getting out the board & iron, finding a good spot, and then inevitably leaving the board up for a week and constantly tripping on it that I don’t like 😂
@@HalflingSeamstress I made a little ironing mat for my sewing space to avoid precisely this issue. Ironing sucks!
74#
Q. Why are handkerchiefs not returning to popularity as an environmental and economic solution for our modern needs?
A. Because we have not updated "the handkerchief" with modern fabric for modern needs.
The fabric handkerchiefs one can purchase these days are as soft and comfortable as a crinkley dollar store tissue...and about as absorbent. Why would someone choose a thin and rough piece of fabric instead of a soft and absorbent one?
I've been using handkerchiefs for more than 2 decades, and I have one word for you: FLANNEL.
Girlfriend, y'all are making this wayyyyy too hard. If you get as excited as I do about the annual Flannelrama sale at JoAnn's Fabrics, you probably have whatever you need in your stash. Better yet -- just raid the remnants shelf for half-price flannel!!!! Or dig out those scraps from the flannel jammies you made during Covid lockdown! Sure...everyone else was making MASKS, but the SMART sewists were busy making jammies with the dream that we could say home making creative projects all day. (See, Mom!!! THIS is why I never throw out my scraps!!! I was right, and you were wrong!!!)
Flannel is soft, affordable, absorbent, and the fabric version of teflon when it comes to stains and washability. Cut your flannel scraps into whatever size of squares or rectangles will make you happy.
Did I say CUT???? Silly me!!!! Flannel is woven cotton. Too poor to own scissors? (Or are they lost in your crafting room among one of your many genius projects?) NOT A PROBLEM!!! Rip that sucker into the size you want.
And fancy-dancy hemming? NOT NECESSARY when one is using flannel! The edges fray, but no one cares, because either the hankie is in your pocket or being used to wipe you nose -- and who is rude/weird enough to watch you do that with overinterested eagerness???
Someone in the comments mentioned ironing. Ironing???? Do you iron your jammies, too? I have more important things to do with my time than IRONING (like watching and commenting on RUclips videos).
When hankerchiefs are so easy and cheap to make, it's easy to have a pile of them for a fresh hankie every day!
I love the intro! My daughter got me a package of 7 hankies for Mother's Day, and I use them all the time! Keep up the good work!!
Let me say this... Handkerchiefs are the 'slobbyist' of disgusting things ever invented or used at a dinner table where food is eaten and passed around. How rude for people to even use them.
I have tried carrying around a handkerchief, but sadly, as it turned out, I rarely used it.
Usually, when my hands are just wet with clean water (for example, after washing my hand), I just wipe them on the sides of my skirt (omg, how sloppy, I know :)); when they are dirty, like sticky after I eat an apple, I tend not to wipe them on my perfectly clean handkerchief, especially when the stain may never come out (such as with ink or coffee).
Where I live, public bathrooms don't always have TP. A handkerchief would be useless in that situation.
In my friend group, I'm usually the one who carries around tissue paper. I find that when I offer a friend in need handkerchief instead, they accept it, but the look in their eyes it's like, "I don't know where it's been?"
So... These are the reasons I failed at switching to using handkerchief. It's such a shame, because the idea of it is so romantic and nostalgic. I gave it a go, but it's just not something for me. Maybe someone less lazy would find the transition easier. Perhaps just try it once, like me, and find out. :)
I honestly forget to use mine half the time too! Mostly because pants don't have pockets :P There are definitely some uses that I am reluctant to use them for - blowing my nose, sticky fingers... I'm not a full blown hankie convert yet, but I'm getting there :)
@@HalflingSeamstress cool
Kristy's Corner Needlework has a great tutorial on how to fold your hankies for 10 uses!
Ooh! I will have to check that out!
@@HalflingSeamstress It's actually Kristi with an "i", oops!
Do you have a video showing how to fold a hanky for multiple blows?
Sadly I'm still figuring that out myself and haven't found a working answer. Right now I mostly use them for drying my hands, or wiping my face.