This is a large mail order transfer dated 1938 from Laura Wheeler Designs (#2266). My copy is in pretty bad shape, with some mouse chews and stains in addition to the usual yellowing. Probably mothers don’t teach this poem to their children anymore because of the whole dying in their sleep thing. Of course, it is followed by the more uplifting third verse (which was new to me) where the child gets to live another day. I still think it’s sweet and I love the little boy with his dog and cat.
The original is a large design (15″ x 20″) and it would probably be a hassle getting the design onto fabric because of the size and all the cross-stitch x’s. Click to enlarge the image below to use the light box method, or a lightened, reversed copy (along with the directions) is also available here, in case you want to use the transfer pencil/hot iron method.
I’ve never seen this version! I think I have a shortened version of the verse [not cross-stitch] with angels on it….it’s been so long since I looked through my stash of patterns though, I can’t be sure. This sure is a darling version.
That’s very pretty! We still say this prayer only we say “Thy love go with me through the night and wake me with the morning light.” instead of the second verse and I had no idea there was a third verse!
I love the kitty by the fire! It is strange the things that we learn as kids, without really thinking about the words. And the stories for that matter. To wit – Hansel and Gretel!
Found you through Barbara at Oodles. My twins’ entire nursery them is “Now I Lay Me”, the dying version (what can I say, the kids are German and Irish) I have vintage quilts, lamps, planters, night lights, wall hangings, evberything! love your blog.
This is so sweet. The illustrations are adorable!
I’ve been trying to download the Now I lay Me Down to Sleep pattern.
How do you do that?
Thank you.
Judy Hall
I just saw this post (a little late to the party, I know). My grandmother cross-stitched & needle pointed this exact pattern over 40 years ago. It is hanging in my bedroom. So pretty and sweet.
had exact same one as a child. Trying to find one or the pattern for a gift