Flea Market Item 26-348

Vintage Embroidered Doyley Storage Case

A charming vintage circular doyley storage case, measuring 30cm across. 

It is designed to keep treasured linen and lace doyleys neatly stored and protected. The cream cotton or rayon-blend twill exterior is beautifully hand embroidered with golden-yellow wattle-style flowers, green foliage and the word “DOYLEYS” in bright blue embroidery. Mustard-yellow binding finishes the edges and forms the fastening straps.

The case opens into two large, soft cotton-lined compartments, allowing doyleys to be stored flat rather than folded—a lovely example of the care once given to household linens. 

Probably Australian, c.1940s–60s, particularly given the wattle-inspired decoration. Some age spotting and wear are visible, consistent with its age and use.