Offered here is a charming and increasingly scarce group of four antique crochet hooks, carved entirely of bone and retaining a beautifully mellow, time-softened surface. Slender and lightweight in the hand, each hook was fashioned for fine thread work, the kind of patient, quiet labor that filled many a home with lace.

These hooks were acquired as part of a larger household collection of handmade doilies and needlework, suggesting they once belonged to a dedicated maker who kept her tools close at hand. While the finest Irish crochet was typically worked with steel hooks, pieces such as these would have been essential companions—used for slightly heavier thread, edgings, and everyday lace, or simply preferred for their feel in the hand.

Each hook varies slightly in length and tip size, reflecting either different gauges or hand-fashioned individuality. The surfaces show gentle signs of age and use, consistent with honest wear, and only add to their quiet charm and authenticity.

There is a lovely cohesion to the group—they have remained together over time, and are offered here as they were found, a small and meaningful glimpse into the working life of a past needlewoman.

Whether added to a collection of early sewing tools, displayed in a primitive setting, or kept as inspiration for the lace maker’s art, these hooks carry both beauty and history in equal measure.

### **Details**

* 4 crochet hooks
* Material: bone
* Color: warm cream with natural aging
* Varying sizes (fine thread work)
* Antique, likely late 19th to early 20th century
* Condition: gentle wear consistent with age and use; no major damage observed

Size length
2 longer ones are 5″ in length
2 shorter ones are 4″ in length

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### **Collector’s Note**

Fine crochet hooks such as these were often kept alongside finished lace and thread supplies in a maker’s sewing basket. Their survival together offers a tangible connection to the hands that once used them and the quiet domestic artistry they supported.

Although there is evidence of damage of the envelope, the tissue paper pattern is very nice. Looks to be in almost unused condition.

Printed tissue paper sheet with instructions included. Envelope states this is a printed – perforated – cut out Pictograf. All pattern pieces are accounted for.

Again size is for approximately a 6 year old boy. Measurements are 23″ waist, 29″ inseam.

Size of the case when closed is 3″ x 3-1/2″.

It appears it has never been used. Lovely condition. Perhaps a given as a gift to someone special.

Cushion measures 4″ square. Condition, fabric is nice, except one small area near an edge. (see photo)

The pattern is uncut and appears still be be factory folded.

I have glanced but did not take each sheet apart as I did not want to distrub. Being in that condition, I would say it is complete, including the instruction sheet. Envelope is good but not perfect as it is missing the flap.

Unmarked with instructions for sewing on the front of envelope and the layout of pattern on the back. Style is both for a short or long sleeves and applied back yoke.

In looking at the pattern pieces, I found the wrist band is missing which probably could be duplicated fairly easy.

Pattern has been used but in decent condition. Envelope does have its issues as with most of these early envelopes. However, all print is readable and can be followed.

McCall 6284 Size 12 Bust 30,

Pattern has been used but complete. Actually in nice condition, including the envelope.

The three-sided case is handmade with the silk moire fabric covering the shaped cardboard. Each panel is a different color silk and all handstitched.

Silk ribbon bows accent each end of the pouch.

Size is 4″ x 2-1/2″.

Condition is decent but not perfect with breaks of the fabric at the top edges. Note photos.

Condition: As noted loss of paint from the pricks of needles and from just wear of time.

Bust size is 30-32. Length of nightgown from center back at the neck is 53-1/2″ long.