Quilts

• If you can sew, consider creating a quilt or even a throw pillow from vintage linen hankies. Sew a handkerchief onto the middle of a quilting square or---if you have enough of them---create entire squares from the hankies. A pillow or quilt made from vintage handkerchiefs is a timeless and unforgettable wedding or bridal shower gift.
  
  For a quilt, piece your squares together, and then add a lining and a backing piece of fabric. To make a pillowcase, piece the squares together and attach the backing on three sides. Stuff with a pillow form or cotton batting and stitch the remaining side closed. Beginning quilters can find quilt-making guides online, or visit your nearest fabric or craft store for advice.
  
  

Table Runner

• Vintage linen hankies may be displayed in a number of creative and crafty ways.
  
  Purchase a length of sturdy cotton or canvas material to create a runner for your dining room table. Stitch the vintage linen hankies onto material in a complementary color for your room décor or a completely random scheme. Purchase a piece of sheer overlay in the same dimensions as the cotton. Place the overlay on top of the pieced-together hankies. Turn the edge of the overlay and the cotton under about 1/2 inch to create a hem, and then stitch the hem pieces together. Use this heirloom table runner for holidays or special occasions. Take care near food and beverages, as the table runner will require dry cleaning if soiled.
  
  

Jar Topper

• If your vintage linen hankies aren't in perfect condition, cut them into pieces to make decorative jar covers.
  
  Purchase a few canning jars with two-piece lids. Cut each hankie into a square that is larger than the inside of the canning jar lid. Affix the hankie square to the inside of the lid with a couple of drops of craft glue. Place the lid on the jar and add the rim to close it. These jars make wonderful gifts, or use them to hold trinkets, loose change or other small objects.