1 c. granulated sugar
1/2 c. vegetable shortening
1/2 c. butter, softened
2 eggs
1/2 c. molasses
3 1/2 c. all purpose flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1 1/2 tsp. ground ginger
1/2 tsp. ground cloves
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp. salt

In a large mixing bowl, cream sugar, shortening, and butter. Beat in eggs and molasses. Combine remaining ingredients and stir into first mixture. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and chill overnight. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. On a lightly floured surface, use a floured rolling pin to roll out dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Use a floured knife to cut dough into 3 inch squares or desired shapes. Use a floured nail or awl to add details. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are very lightly browned and tops of cookies are firm. Yield: about 7 dozen cookies.