Readying for Winter

At this time of year in the Northern Hemisphere, the weather can be changeable, with 'Indian Summer' - warm days and cold nights, hot one day and cold the next, snow, rain, or humidity all in one week in some areas. However, this is a perfect time to get one's house and wardrobe - and that of the family - ready for winter.

Mrs. Beeton, in her Book of Household Management says, 'In September and October it will be necessary to prepare for the cold weather, and get ready the winter clothing for the various members of the family. The white summer curtains will now be carefully put away, the fire-places, grates, and chimneys looked to, and the house put in a thorough state of repair.'

For our purposes, this is the time to rotate the linens, from summer cottons and coverlets to winter flannels and quilts. The former will want a wash, and the latter an airing, before being laid away in herbs to protect the beautiful starching from vermin, or to be laid upon the beds. Carefully examine the household linen, with a view to its being repaired, if necessary, before cleaning or airing.

Woolens likewise can be freshened, being well shaken and brushed, after being taken out of their pinning upon paper or linen, and camphor (to keep them from moths.) This is true for knitwear as well as cloth.

If your find that you are in need of knitwear or fashionable winter Artistic dress  now is the time to make them, or seeing to having items made, so to be ready for the first really cold days.

Sprucing up a pair of boots:

A lovely quilted winter bonnet:

Stylish Knitwear: