THE HANKIE

What ever happened using a hankie? Did it go the way of white gloves? I think my gloves went into a drawer, never to return, in the 1970's. They didn't seem to fit with ethnic and gunnie sack clothing. Although that was never my style, the gloves and hankies disappeared.

Recently I've been purchasing these lovely soft cotton and lace crochet reminders of a more civil past. In today's resurgence of "Go Green," they are most appropriate for the person sensitive to saving the planet. Of course, the price of paper goods is also another good reason. My friend Janet Swanson, who is a partner in the York, Me. store, FIONA'S PORCH, always carries a hankie and encourages her customers to purchase them and cloth napkins.

They do require laundering and a touch up with a warm iron for a finished look. If you don't own an iron, that step can be eliminated.

Pictured above are a few from my growing collection. The linen handkerchief holder is hand embroidered and keeps the hankies neat and fresh. Hankies can also be used in the making of decorative pillows. The CALIFORNIA one is slated for such a life. Now I just need a winter residence in Palm Springs so it will be right at home.

Pricing can range from $1 to a high of $22. Let your passion be your guide.