Is this not the most Unique Needlepoint Bag!?

[TangerineBoutique]

Needlepoint handbags are being revived thanks to design houses like Dolce and Gabanna. I'm thrilled because I've always loved them. Most of the time they are classic and feminine but I just posted a vintage one that breaks all the rules... You gotta love this late 60s early 70s "envelope" version that combines sepia patent leather, a chunky gold chain shoulder strap and needlepoint fruits and flowers. It's a nice generous size too. So Cool!
Melody

 

[retro ruth]

Oh that's lovely. I love needlepoint bags too, and this is an unusual beauty.

 

[foofoogal]

So fabulous and looks like in great condition.

 

[TangerineBoutique]

Thanks guys! Yes an added bonus, the condition is near perfect, just a little age to the faille lining. I've never seen another one like it.
Melody

 

[MissRita]

Oh my, that's gorgeous.

 

[cmpollack]

That's a fab purse, Melody!

I love needlepoint purses and have a bunch in my B & M as well as my personal collection. The especially wonderful thing about them is that they weren't necessarily mass-produced--there were kits as well as companies like Christine Custom Bags that worked with unique or homemade needlepoint panels.

The style of yours is so unusual, and so on trend!

 

[TangerineBoutique]

You are right Carrie I've seen ads for the kits in vintage ladies magazines. I never paid attention to the names of the suppliers though. Thank you for the info! Mine was store bought, Stylecraft of Miami. They did really fun bags but I never had one that was needlepoint

You know I always assumed that needlepoint had to be done by hand, even with store bought merchandise, I never heard of a machine that does that kind of work. I'm curious now, is all needlepoint done by hand? Were the store bought bags done by cottage industry workers or in some kind of factory setting? Domestic labor used to be very cheap in the garment industry especially piece work so it's certainly cocievable that the needle work was all hand worked and the bags themselves machine assembled. I did a quick search and found no info on any kind of needle point machine. Hmm...

Melody

 

[cmpollack]

Were the store bought bags done by cottage industry workers or in some kind of factory setting? Domestic labor used to be very cheap in the garment industry especially piece work so it's certainly cocievable that the needle work was all hand worked and the bags themselves machine assembled.

I think your theory is very sound. Definitely an intriguing topic for needlepoint aficionados like us to research!

ps I've had so many great Stylecraft bags--lucite, tapestry, leather/suede, you name it. Always very distinctive and excellent quality.

 

[sewingmachinegirl]

Melody that purse is wonderful, I love it!!

 

[Midge]

Great bag! I have one in my collection that my mom embroidered for my grandma... They definitely have a special appeal!

Karin