Table of Contents

List of Illustrations
Acknowledgments
Introduction

1. Women, Work, and the Needle
2. Making Women: An Education in Needlework
3. Constructing the Genteel Woman: Fancywork and Femininity
4. Industrious Women: Duty, Virtue, and Plain Sewing
5. Dressing the Part: Dressmaking in the Home
6. A Good Wife and Mother: Clothing the Family

Conclusion
Notes
Bibliography
Index

Promotional Information

This book explores the practice and products of domestic needlework in 19th century colonial Australia, focusing on its relationship with gender and class.

About the Author

Lorinda Cramer was previously Associate Research Fellow at the Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globilisation, Deakin University, Australia, and is now Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Australian Catholic University.

Reviews

Cramer expertly combines theory with close readings of material objects to illuminate women’s crucial but often overlooked contributions to the solidification of British colonial power.
*Ariel Beaujot, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, USA*

In this highly original study, readers can see anew how genteel women made and remade themselves through needlework. A compelling read with aptly chosen objects and images.
*Bronwyn Labrum, Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa*