Prepare Yourself for Sewing

This is taken from a Singer Sewing Machine Manual from 1949. After you read this, you will know what I mean when I say "We've come a long way, Baby!"

"Prepare yourself mentally for sewing. Think about what you are going to do. Never approach sewing with a sigh or lackadaisically. Good results are difficult when indifference predominates. Never try to sew with a sink full of dirty dishes or beds unmade. Then there are urgent housekeeping chores. Do these first so your mind is free to enjoy your sewing."

" When you sew, make yourself as attractive as possible. Put on a clean dress. Have your hair in order, powder and lipstick put on. If you are constantly fearful that a visitor will drop in or your husband will come home and you will not look neatly put together, you will not enjoy your sewing as you should." This makes me laugh! If I waited until the house was clean and I was "as attractive as possible", I would never get to sew! But, it is right that you need to have "your mind free to enjoy your sewing".  And, I will never sew in a clean dress! No, way!