Vintage Linens that Will Endure: Wilendur!

See the frayed little tag in the photo above? It means this tablecloth is a vintage cloth from the Weil and Durrse company. Their Wilendur line is very collectible (the 'e' was added to the name in late Fifties), yet not hard to find. I've purchased Wilendur items at antique shops, shows, and on eBay (where there are at least 50 for sale every week - search for 'wilendur').

Wilendur cloths were produced from the 1930s to the 1980s, with the earlier ones being more desirable today. Many of them are square - originally meant for kitchen tables (think of Lucy & Ricky's kitchen table) and there is a huge range of designs. Floral designs, like the 1950s dogwood above, are seen most often, but there are some really, really cute non-floral designs. Some of these from the 1940s and 50s are in high demand and sell for $70 and up. Would you prefer a lobster theme? Or colorful liquor labels? Or the one celebrating Caesar Salad?

Despite being 50 or 60 years old (or more!), these cloths are in amazing shape. Yes, some have holes or stains, but many are perfect. They are made of heavy cotton and, as the label says, they are colorfast. They launder well and do seem to resist stains - of course, if you're ironing them, use starch and almost any stain will wash out. The morning glory cloth above has two small holes, but I love it anyway. And I'm not the only one - can you spot the cricket? I could not get a photo without him, every time I shook him off and re-spread the cloth he hopped back on. Maybe it's good luck to have a cricket on your tablecloth? Many innovative crafters buy the most worn Wilendur cloths and turn them into tea towels, mitts, etc. I have several with holes that we use for picnics and dining outside.

If you're planning ahead for the holidays, you might find a cheery Wilendur poinsettia cloth. That's certainly on my Wilendur Wish List - along with five or six other designs! I'd love to hear about your favorite vintage linens . . .

And if you'd like to learn more about Wilendur, check out this WorthPoint site.