The Learn How Book No. 170 is a mid-century needlecraft instruction and pattern booklet published by The Spool Cotton Company, originally copyrighted in 1941 and reprinted through at least the 32nd Edition of January 1952 — a testament to its broad and sustained popularity among American home crafters of the era. Item code H-6925 is noted on the interior.
The booklet covers four needlecraft disciplines across approximately 50 pages: Crochet (pages 3–18), Knitting (pages 19–34), Tatting (pages 35–40), and Embroidery (pages 41–49), with a full index on page 50. Featured projects include a Star Stitch Calot, Crocheted Collar, Crocheted Luncheon Set, Afghan, Filet Tray Cloth, and Crocheted Change Purse, among others. The interior photographs show period-correct models and finished project examples, providing both instructional and visual historical interest.
The cover is a vivid lime green with brown and cream illustration — four vignettes labeled "C is for Crochet," "K is for Knitting," "T is for Tatting," and "E is for Embroidery" — a charming and highly collectible example of mid-century craft publication graphic design. Original cover price is printed as 10 cents.
The booklet is in good vintage condition with wear to the cover edges and corners consistent with age. Pages show age toning but are intact throughout.
Star Stitch Calot — Crocheted Collar — Crocheted Luncheon Set — Crocheted Change Purse — Afghan — Filet Tray Cloth — Period photography of finished projects — Vivid lime green illustrated cover w/ four needlecraft vignettes
Good vintage condition for age. Cover shows edge and corner wear with some creasing consistent with 70+ years of life. Interior pages intact throughout with age toning. Saddle-stitch binding holds. Original cover price of 10 cents printed on front.