1 cup shortening
1 cup molasses
3 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ginger
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cloves
In large bowl, combine shortening and molasses; blend well.  Add flour and remaining cookie ingredients to molasses mixture; mix well.  Cover with plastic wrap; rifrigerate at least 2 hours for easier handling.

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. In well-floured surface, roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness; cut with floured cookie cutter.  Place 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets.  Bake at 350 degrees F for 8-10 minutes or until set.  Cool completely.