Welcome to History through the Needle's Eye!

From the late 1800's through the 1970's or 1980's, local and national businesses used needlebook premiums to advertise to American women.  These small paper premiums were inexpensive to purchase and could be customized with a firm's advertising message.

In a period when many women sewed to create or repair clothing and household furnishings, a needle was an essential household tool; and, getting a firm's message in front of a key household purchase decision maker (the home seamstress) could drive sales.

Advertising needlebooks range from utilitarian messaging describing products or services to more decorative items that also highlighted a firm's wares.

Needlebooks provide glimpses into the past and insights into twentieth century American business.