Sew a Pocketbook

In the eighteenth century, pocketbooks carried by both men and women came in a variety of materials, from fine leathers to parchment to elaborate embroideries. Although these pocketbooks were often hidden away in a man’s coat pocket or in ladies’ pockets (frequently even more elaborately decorated and worn beneath their petticoats), the time and care taken to make these examples of beautiful, skillful needlework ensures their allure to this day.

The exterior of Karen W. MacGregor’s Irish-stitch pocketbook. Photo by Joe Coca

A Pocketbook to Sew

Notes: See “The Irish Stitch” (below) if you wish to make an Irish-stitch panel for the exterior of your pocketbook; if you wish to use another fabric, replace the 28-count linen called for in the pattern.