Birmingham state herald., 1896-07-11
RANCHES IN EMBROIDERY.

The old adage that Familiarity breeds contempt" is more often true of material objects than of individuals, although it is rule that often works both ways in the latter case; for, as one writer wittily said, Contempt breeds familiarity" also. However, we are much inclined to grow fonder of our fellow-b beings as friendship advances, and learn to love them for old times sake, even if there be nothing very attractive about their per sonality, as one woman lately declares in speaking of friends of long associa- tion; but we do grow tired of "old things" and "old styles" and in this pro- gressive age novelty" is the thing that charms, even though the very name itself augurs but 0 brief reign over popular favor
 Among the really dainty and delicate fashions which have been highly appre- eiated, and justly so, is that of embroid- cred white linen for table use; but even that has already begun to pail upon satiated public, and is being supplanted, temporarily, at least, by very different style of work, although 1t will revive in time, no doubt. It is 100 appropriate and beautiful not to have a continual SUD- port from many of it's admirers. Those who have wearied of it will return to it's charms with renewed delight after the departure of the craze for strength of tone and brillancy of coloring, which is apparent in everything from milady's bonnet and gown to the smallest piece of domestic decoration.
 After this prelude 1t is obvious to the reader that embroidery, that expressing feminine occupation and recreation, is In a transitory state. From white linen worked in pale colors or pure white silk we pass to grass linen shades done in oriental eolors and designs; in Paris these latter have even been used on the plain white background but in spite of fnraiorf1 indnrcapnanf they have not become popular here nor are there in- deations that they will increase In fa- Vor.
 The work most liked during the last winter for household decorations, sofa pillows, etc.. has been the Bulgarian, which is of strong eastern or oriental type of coloring. Only conventional de- signs are used, and heavy cotton thread fills in an outlining of black on a buff oh ecrue background. Effective! stylish! you may say. Yes, but not dainty or suited to table use.
 For the latter the same effect of color is obtained in thin batiste, decorated with colored silks, while grass linens and also those of pink, green, violet, yellow, etc., are much in vogue. The batistes, worked either in harmonious co1ors or in pure white, and covering mahogany or other hardwood tables are the pret- tiest opponents of this new phase in ta- ble adornment.
 A decided innovation in this latter in- troduces an open work medallion into the design stamped upon the batiste. This Is cut out and buttonholed closely about It's edge. Then construction lines of heavy linen thread are laid as in all drawn work and the oval is filled in with as elaborate design as the embroiderer's skill or fancy dictates. To be absolutely correct and up to date these must be made by hand, but any delicate lace medallions may be applied, giving, if not the same effect, one at least approaching 1t, and the great difference in time and skill re- quired to put the former in place will en- nance the charms of the latter to such degree that we may be easily induced to regard 1t with almost equal appreciation. Of course these especial bits of decora- ton only occur at intervals in the piece, and are connected by a graceful, running vine or fern, or a well drawn convention al scroll or figure. These hints may prove of value to some who are yet uncertain as to what to choose for summer work, and if followed may be relied upon to supply a stock of artistic house and table decorations for next winter, while the favorites of year ago take well earned rest.