Victorian Needlework

Needlework was central to a woman's identity in the 19th century. An award-winning quilter, professional quilt appraiser, and teacher of programs on Victorian needlework and women's history, explains needlework's relationship to social status, morality, education, philanthropy, earning a living, and technology, plus options for fancy and plain sewing. Ledbetter (English, Texas State U., San Marcos) also discusses literary representations of needlework. The book includes annotations on the sources used by Victorian women for needlework patterns and illustrations, instructions for downloading them for free, a glossary, and illustrations. Annotation c2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Kathryn Ledbetter, PhD, is professor of English at Texas State University, San Marcos, where she teaches 19th-century British literature. Her published works includeBritish Victorian Women's Periodicals: Beauty, Civilization, and Poetry as well as many articles on British literature and culture.