Page 148

Original Papers: Printed Flannel. 
PRINTED FLANNEL. 
AT this period of chilliness, we think our readers will be disposed to sym-
pathise with the renewed consideration of a fabric especially suitable to
the 
season. In a previous number (p. 105), we gave two examples of a full deep-
toned and well-covered flannel admirably printed by Mr. Swaisland, and we
have now selected for the subject of a few remarks one in which the ground
is light rather than dark, printed by we know not whom, but no less creditable
for its correct design than those we lately spoke of. In this instance, the
designer has taken an old type, but treated it with some novelty. The public
is so accustomed to the pine form, and its associations with Indian origin
and 
early success are so strong, that any manufacturer is sure of the patronage
of 
large numbers out of pure regard for the old friendly shape. Without depre-
ciating it, we should like to see a gentle attempt made to devise more varied
generic shapes for diaper treatments: still we always welcome this old familiar
friend. We are glad to observe that the designer in this print has not attempted
any imitation of a woven effect, but has trusted to rich masses of colour
skilfully 
bombined, not too imitative, and yet sufficiently suggestive of nature. What
is 
here done on a limited scale proves that this principle of treatment is a
key to 
a new style, if any one would be venturesome enough to use it, and we would
especially direct the attention of designers to it. We may also say to the
student, 
"This pattern affords suggestions which you would do well to pursue.
As one 
lesson, consider the well-balanced quantities and the general diapered arrange-
ment ; take these as a basis, and merely alter the pine forms, preserving
the same 
arrangements of colour. As another lesson, take the new forms and modify
the arrangements of colour and the general quantities of them." To revert
to 
the consumer, we remark that this pattern would be effective and tasteful,
whether worn in folds as in a gown, or more flatly as in a shawl; yet it
is but 
a simple adaptation of the old pine with full-toned harmonies, well and equally
distributed over the surface.