Stitching, playing

Perhaps it’s because I’m teaching three separate crochet workshops during the week, but the past few days I’ve been less inclined to pick up my hook and more enthusiastic about my embroidery hoop...

You may recall here that I happened upon some incredible hand-dyed embroidery supplies – I hesitate to call the bundle “floss”, because none of the materials can be separated into thin strands. But they are stunning and magical and I just had to buy them!

So now I’m playing with my new threads. I started by drawing a simple heart shape onto some thick natural linen – I was drawn to the opposing textures, the slubby, rough linen with its earthy tone, contrasted by the ethereal hues of the threads. I love the variegated blues, purples and greens, with the gold shimmer sparkling against the weave.

I used a stem stitch with the shot-gold thread to outline the heart. I also did stem stitch for a silky thread that is almost crinkly in texture – it is a twisted thread, but not simply in a spiral, it is bumpy and windy and just fun to use. I like how it gives an almost silky rope-like texture to the embroidery, see on the curlicues on right side above.

I’m going to embellish this heart with ribbon roses, buds, leaves...I have no set design in mind, but I am enjoying the freedom of the stitching. Oh, and I’m not entirely sure what I’ll use this for when I’m finished – another hoop hanging on the wall, perhaps a bag, a cushion...suggestions?

Recently I received some incredible embroidery in the post. I took part in the &Stitches Stitchy Swap, and my swap partner, Jeanne, sent me the most amazing piece!

This is an embroidered and quilted project bag, large enough to hold a 10-inch embroidery hoop and associated supplies. It is so vibrant and detailed, and the most interesting and creative aspect is that some of the patches are actually photos of my garden, taken from my blog, which Jeanne printed onto fabric then embellished with floss!

I must admit, I went a bit teary when I read her card and admired her work (I’m a soppy ol’ bird!). This is such a treasure, made with such care and thoughtfulness, especially considering that we never met! The parcel was also filled with stickers, stationery, treats for the girls, I've been spoiled!

You can see the embroidery I sent to her here. Thank you Jeanne, from the bottom of my heart!

Guess who made a visit to the garden this weekend?

Bottom left, top right

Happy Father’s Day to all the wonderful daddies out there! Now it’s time to go back to spoiling Darling Husband!

Chrissie x