This is a variation on the traditional darning mushrooms. Called the Darn-a-lite it had a battery in the bakelite stem and small bulb and reflector inside to illuminate the top. This meant that it was much easier to darn in poor light.
These were manufactured in the 1940's and would have been ideal for darning socks etc during the blackout or in the air raid shelter. They would have been an essential part on most women's sewing box.
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At many antique fairs I have the following conversation when a person of younger years picks up a mushroom. "What is this?" "It's a darning mushroom." "What's darning?", I then go into teacher mode and explain how in the 'olden days'(!) people mended clothes that had worn out and did not just throw them away. I end up sounding like my grandma.
The mushroom top is 75mm diameter and 110mm overall length.
The stem is made of Bakelite and the top of a urea formaldehyde resin, although many people would describe it (incorrectly) as bakelite. Available with 3 different colours for the top.
They are in good condition although I cannot guarantee that they are working.
Please note. I do my best to accurately photograph and describe the condition of the items for sale, including any minor defects but all pieces are vintage and have had previous lives and so may have minor flaws.
Postage is for UK only, please enquire for overseas postage.