Old-time Tools & Toys Of Needlework, by Gertrude Whiting. 364 Pages. Softbound. This book is a gem. Not only does it describe and illustrate nearly all the paraphernalia, accoutrements, appliances, accesories, and doodads associated with all yarn and thread handicrafts from knitting, embroidery, and dressmaking to warp weaving, batik making, and lace making from such widely scattered cultures as Java, ancient Egypt, Victorian England, and pre-revolutionary Russia, but its etymology as well. For each artifact, the author gives us the history of its invention, age, lore, use, and a variety of literary and artistic sources in which it's mentioned or depicted. This book will definitely be desired by any needlework practicioner and will awaken a new world of possiblities for those who already collect tools. $20.95 (BK-0221)