Sewing Susan Needle Book Value Guide

The Sewing Susan Needle Book is a quintessential piece of mid-century haberdashery ephemera, prized for its vibrant lithographed cover art depicting three women. Produced in Japan during the 1930s and 1940s, these cardboard cases served as both functional sewing organizers and effective promotional tools for retailers.

What Is Sewing Susan Needle Book Worth?

The typical price range for Sewing Susan Needle Book is $10 - $20 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Completeness of the needle set, as missing or rusted metal needles significantly reduce the market price.
• The physical condition of the cardboard hinges and the clarity of the lithographed cover illustration.
• Presence of original threaders or additional sewing notions that were sometimes included in the premium assortments.
• Market demand for specific 'Sewing Susan' variations, with the 1930-1940 era examples typically fetching between $10 and $20.

How to Identify Sewing Susan Needle Book?

• Look for the 'Made in Japan' or 'Occupied Japan' hallmark typically printed on the back or interior fold.
• Verify the presence of the original 'Sewing Susan' branding accompanied by the specific illustration of three women.
• Check for the original interior paper flaps and the tiered arrangement of metal needles which should be secured to the inner card.
• Confirm the construction materials are authentic period-correct cardboard and lightweight paper rather than modern glossy cardstock.

History of Sewing Susan Needle Book

Needle books, also known as needle cases, gained popularity in the 19th and early 20th centuries as a convenient way to store and organize sewing needles. They were often given away as promotional items by haberdasheries and sewing machine companies. The 'Sewing Susan' brand was a common and well-recognized name for these needle assortments, frequently featuring charming illustrations of women engaged in domestic tasks, reflecting the societal roles of the era.