What's in my box?

Question: I have inherited an interesting box full of tools. Are you able to identify these items?

Answer: Thanks for your request. This is a lovely box. It contains a boot hook, a button hook and glove stretchers. The object with a wider end is hard to see, but may be a shoe horn (“shoe lift”). Tools like these were widespread in the early 20th century, and were used to make, alter and repair items of clothing. There are several items like this in Museum Victoria’s Clothing and Textiles Collection, which can be explored online.