Several people have asked how a linen quilt is born, so I thought I would take you along on a journey.
I do use the word 'born' purposely - I don't think I "plan" or "design" it... rather, I serve as a midwife.
This is my next 'delivery' :
It's a gorgeous piece of Madeira linen, probably from the 1930s, probably made in Portugal. Madeira linen later became very popular and was eventually overproduced for the tourist trade - there are some rather poor examples from that period. But this one has the grace and elegance of an earlier work.
It's all wrinkled, sorry - no need to iron it yet. I just got it from England, on ebay...
Step One? Staring... I will just leave it on this table, and stare at it for a few days. I will try to think about the need to enhance the original needlework, not to detract from it... and I will think about the need to balance details and larger designs, and I will think about colors of thread, and of backing fabric.
I will not think about how long this will take - that's simply inconsequential.
Let me show you some of the beautiful embroidery and cutwork:
After I have stared at it for a bit, I will try some different colors behind it and see what looks good - I'll take some photos to share !
Have a great day, hopefully finding a few moments to quilt or sew!
Kate
1 comment:
I still haven't started mine, but I still get inspired by your work. Maybe 2015 will be the year.
Post a Comment