tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29058795413160235092024-03-06T00:50:04.528-08:00StoryclothStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-28791505010497767362011-05-18T10:01:00.000-07:002011-05-18T10:01:16.253-07:00By Royal Mail<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjkwLn3-IGjAO_mXJtrqVv6x2o8zoeofnC42JynblBxjcyvMCzxx4CWzGdYru79sBGzxh9WWVPPM3JH4QYVldPlNSv6RkDE76fNhTf0UrNmB2k88giRpZ6cEq1IF7ahEEsNJqr1xxvBnMl/s1600/IMG_5216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjkwLn3-IGjAO_mXJtrqVv6x2o8zoeofnC42JynblBxjcyvMCzxx4CWzGdYru79sBGzxh9WWVPPM3JH4QYVldPlNSv6RkDE76fNhTf0UrNmB2k88giRpZ6cEq1IF7ahEEsNJqr1xxvBnMl/s320/IMG_5216.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Royal Wedding memento cushion and lavender bag.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I received this lovely gift by Royal Mail yesterday. It is a Royal Wedding memento cushion as well as the most fragrant lavender bag I have ever smelled. Glorious. They are gifts from <a href="http://gillyflower5.blogspot.com/2011/05/be-right-back.html">Gill</a> after her dog had selected my name for her Royal giveaway! Thank you Gill! <br />
<br />
I am off to the land downunder to spend time with my family as my Dad recovers from a medical emergency.<br />
<br />
One good thing at a difficult time - I will be able to hand deliver the Bird House to my grandsons.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching, and I'll be back here soon, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-3924668687117427122011-05-09T15:18:00.000-07:002011-05-09T15:58:00.911-07:00Cloth Coil Bird House and Thankyou<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWPjZRlO7f6pCf-QsE-YR_pHgY7YIuGNZ-o8-Mc9wHhzFUZDPOAh1VXK99Xbf62CWJg0TWNBeZZgaApZJYd-s92J7dphksnnPQhI34OR4uMM3JdYHvaBOdp7YoAGu_RNE15sWcGGmX2aCm/s1600/birdhouse1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWPjZRlO7f6pCf-QsE-YR_pHgY7YIuGNZ-o8-Mc9wHhzFUZDPOAh1VXK99Xbf62CWJg0TWNBeZZgaApZJYd-s92J7dphksnnPQhI34OR4uMM3JdYHvaBOdp7YoAGu_RNE15sWcGGmX2aCm/s320/birdhouse1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Bird House</i> with doors closed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>This has been a while in the making. It is a <i>Bird House</i> for my two grandsons. It is a <i>Bird House</i> of particular ilk! It is the home of a special type of bird - one that sits on little baby teeth, relinquishing them to the tooth fairy in exchange for a gold coin when he or she visits during the night. She hopes that the tooth fairy will find her nest without unnecessary delay and to this end has placed some clear signage inside the doors. When the boys lose a tooth it must be placed very carefully in the nest under the bird and the doors left wide open for the tooth fairy's visit. In the morning the boys will know whether the tooth fairy has been if the doors are securely closed. The tooth fairy always shuts the door behind him/her to make sure the gold coin is kept safe from predators!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE5qT8uOctnygh0Ca6tsKAP6_afjgiyQuBF4nzCQ9aVhDFgYVCp2n0RiAJMd2CaNHLAVso2JA22qofjSPRZ-Ce-lbr5UFOfbSGn3N5R-peY_48Y_yZHwZMY12A2HP9PVmWprtiQbRxCKS7/s1600/birdhouse2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE5qT8uOctnygh0Ca6tsKAP6_afjgiyQuBF4nzCQ9aVhDFgYVCp2n0RiAJMd2CaNHLAVso2JA22qofjSPRZ-Ce-lbr5UFOfbSGn3N5R-peY_48Y_yZHwZMY12A2HP9PVmWprtiQbRxCKS7/s400/birdhouse2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Bird House</i> with doors open for the tooth fairy.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Overall I enjoyed constructing this. It was a bit fussy and took way longer than anticipated. However it is made out of fine linen and soft cotton and so feels lovely to the touch. I find it very hard to think in terms of making things for little boys. I have two grandsons and a third one on the way. No grand daughters on the horizon! Well, I hope the boys are okay with having a tooth fairy visiting house that is not an alligator, or train, or cricket bat. They have one that is a <i>Bird House</i>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIfDrC1niO8S-zeDOG_tpUGQ6ISChMxqJpnQJ816ONHzLGyOZFBZaVK5o-X417CQD4WGHuJC9rTy7mgmAWdigG-mzM2cC6b72BcPSwO41dayeO46t76D1nYlJg8hy7UAPNmCIdRyrqTBlg/s1600/birdhouse4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIfDrC1niO8S-zeDOG_tpUGQ6ISChMxqJpnQJ816ONHzLGyOZFBZaVK5o-X417CQD4WGHuJC9rTy7mgmAWdigG-mzM2cC6b72BcPSwO41dayeO46t76D1nYlJg8hy7UAPNmCIdRyrqTBlg/s320/birdhouse4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Closer view.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> I have a thank you to make to <a href="http://notjustnat.blogspot.com/">Nat</a> for a lovely gift for me when I became her 200th follower. It is all the way from my home country, Australia and I am very thrilled. The pin cushion goes so well with my large coiled work basket. The blue moons are extremely timely as I am taking <a href="http://spiritcloth.typepad.com/">jude's</a> <i>SunMoonStars</i> course. (I have made a small start attuning my mind to this course by placing a star on the <i>Bird House</i> above)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzpHyXHQQ1QmdM87cP5yuwS3opfgJGpwxKpG7JdxMhe0aHdXxL4YtwjCKGn9zH85CKQPct0IFxgGtmzhQJZi87FxHK4UvzhAHvid9tQPd3DL4jbHn7XmHN2lUQN_A_AvuqRuoBuj5hpAt8/s1600/IMG_5176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzpHyXHQQ1QmdM87cP5yuwS3opfgJGpwxKpG7JdxMhe0aHdXxL4YtwjCKGn9zH85CKQPct0IFxgGtmzhQJZi87FxHK4UvzhAHvid9tQPd3DL4jbHn7XmHN2lUQN_A_AvuqRuoBuj5hpAt8/s320/IMG_5176.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful gift from Nat. Thanks Nat!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>At close of weekend needle I had sewn more coils on the still-in-progress basket. However I am thinking about what to begin making for <i>SunMoonStars</i>. A break from coils will be quite okay for awhile.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching everyone, Gilly<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Storyclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-38280793735698167182011-04-27T13:17:00.000-07:002011-04-27T13:19:04.127-07:00Cloth Coil Basket Completed<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidUqyW3fAZ-FnhJ7vHR3X9CDJta7oBRI3sEek_tPBPhzqGDOQS-EUrn74V-ua1VrK9bB80XXIxvBiXlWZqtuK_NMb8FEM2Xu4CD6m8bSec5XDOgPYKSC8Hbi2R_HjKbn5xsAyWJNlJsAtH/s1600/large+basket4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidUqyW3fAZ-FnhJ7vHR3X9CDJta7oBRI3sEek_tPBPhzqGDOQS-EUrn74V-ua1VrK9bB80XXIxvBiXlWZqtuK_NMb8FEM2Xu4CD6m8bSec5XDOgPYKSC8Hbi2R_HjKbn5xsAyWJNlJsAtH/s320/large+basket4.jpg" width="268" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close-up of felt base and side of basket</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Well, I have finally completed the large cloth coil basket. This ended up much larger than I planned. I decided I might as well finish the roll of cord that I had bought at a thrift store. This is how far it went, including the handles. I decided I had better reinforce the base for strength. I did this by stitching in place a piece of felt I had with colours that toned in quite well. Now I have a lovely capacious work basket.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGYDhbKHaMUGReAmIUUAmddfSEb9R4wTRpaEnEvoHyuOkbZ1AzpVtJFjVs9INs3X3dPv4dL3jWKDh20932wqJyuqmdLK9lv4RQdJ8dLZTrrPna5ZzJ0HEVtvUB9Y9c_Of0TUcbjqUNx4x/s1600/large+basket1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGYDhbKHaMUGReAmIUUAmddfSEb9R4wTRpaEnEvoHyuOkbZ1AzpVtJFjVs9INs3X3dPv4dL3jWKDh20932wqJyuqmdLK9lv4RQdJ8dLZTrrPna5ZzJ0HEVtvUB9Y9c_Of0TUcbjqUNx4x/s320/large+basket1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The whole basket - 18" wide by 9" high</td></tr>
</tbody></table> I learnt a lot through making this. For example, how to angle the needle and the coils, how tightly to pull the coils together, the effects of highly textured coils on the building process. This basket is nice to the touch - soft but pretty firm as well. I feel that I really improved my technique towards the end of the basket.<br />
<br />
At close of needle I had begun a new coiled basket but this one has a much different feel to it. I'll post it soon.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching everyone, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-62932961702392445352011-04-08T10:56:00.000-07:002011-04-08T17:56:39.012-07:00Embroidered Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCKp9u5IjJ90hyphenhyphenM716u_11n1XQ1HS3DwxkKRCMutAWpx6navYIJkbTr_o8-cMkOFev8fSkoDmeJxoA0eWxd4hMMFaNOlmNMiGIZpkpdlAl4NZwC8uLpplfTx1wu5r9_KKQfkkviwr7-ewi/s1600/garden3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCKp9u5IjJ90hyphenhyphenM716u_11n1XQ1HS3DwxkKRCMutAWpx6navYIJkbTr_o8-cMkOFev8fSkoDmeJxoA0eWxd4hMMFaNOlmNMiGIZpkpdlAl4NZwC8uLpplfTx1wu5r9_KKQfkkviwr7-ewi/s320/garden3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Embroidered Garden</i> - (trying to capture some light)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKTNYpB7B8ilSqb1F5O6iXy3ysPpRCHonubupnThyphenhyphenn-w69y65-RT6jpf6_gKOjqvWpSP8xFQVXYHkVcggxJz_YwE86Khgop0bpbYa_5HvviZ8bnmaU1LprxpP782zV4uHpDE0fTJLaxAs/s1600/garden9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKTNYpB7B8ilSqb1F5O6iXy3ysPpRCHonubupnThyphenhyphenn-w69y65-RT6jpf6_gKOjqvWpSP8xFQVXYHkVcggxJz_YwE86Khgop0bpbYa_5HvviZ8bnmaU1LprxpP782zV4uHpDE0fTJLaxAs/s320/garden9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Embroidered Garden </i>- from the side.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR2cc7xoc-C8rH8aSyH4MFWpcqOw7PRYNu9RLvUMH5ujkJepu7-bvYtQd2Sdy4lE3_EeG75PkFLMAzLb_2paUi-4lla7kzqzfsZW42CCJJp_gmYHqK9ay7Ol7dDkr1dCjEWp1tlIgW1g0T/s1600/garden2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR2cc7xoc-C8rH8aSyH4MFWpcqOw7PRYNu9RLvUMH5ujkJepu7-bvYtQd2Sdy4lE3_EeG75PkFLMAzLb_2paUi-4lla7kzqzfsZW42CCJJp_gmYHqK9ay7Ol7dDkr1dCjEWp1tlIgW1g0T/s320/garden2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Embroidered Garden</i> - from above.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><i>Emroidered Garden</i> is six and a half inches square with heavy textured, and three dimensional, embroidery. This was designed as a sampler in which I tried many stitches. Apart for the excitement and reward of learning new stitching methods I absolutely loved the process of planning the garden. My main resource for the stitches was <a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/book/9781844480036/Three-dimensional-Embroidery-Stitches"><i>Three Dimensional Emroidery</i></a> by Patt Trott. This is a wonderful book with good illustrations, clear instructions and a simple layout.<br />
<br />
My desire to plan gardens came originally from one of my favourite books. It is <a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/book/9781853261046/The-Secret-Garden"><i>The Secret Garden</i> </a>by Frances Hodgson Burnett in which some 'lost souls' find healing by the regeneration of an old walled garden which was shut down because of tragedy. It is a wonderful story of hope. I have fantasised about enclosed gardens ever since first reading this book when I was eleven years old. Now I have found an outlet for all my imaginary secret gardens.<br />
<br />
At close of needle I was still coiling the large <a href="http://rushyriver.blogspot.com/2011/04/large-cloth-coil-basket.html">basket</a> and I am nearly there!<br />
<br />
Happy stitching everyone, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-5889098338676902462011-04-05T10:18:00.000-07:002011-04-06T11:07:11.969-07:00Twined Nest with little Bird<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqQymbotZOYH8pPHFDuVN45YHZmhiIOJeza_bSKJqllGx-1KuL2RDVSn2I9eXlffmB37UAEnbJSo68uY7_r9aFWwbZ137dL6Ul4L1GX2ww4ABSd61CV0m46hnuRX_pE2oR1KvGdkfT8DD/s1600/birdinnest2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqQymbotZOYH8pPHFDuVN45YHZmhiIOJeza_bSKJqllGx-1KuL2RDVSn2I9eXlffmB37UAEnbJSo68uY7_r9aFWwbZ137dL6Ul4L1GX2ww4ABSd61CV0m46hnuRX_pE2oR1KvGdkfT8DD/s320/birdinnest2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twined nest and little bird left hand view.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCIW0Th_T81l5GeZbd75B5ZHZT7TPsMD_PKcVPNEKZfUUCa_NhqrIxMgPuhNG363lifP8pra-E3RKXkkOCbJPNUpfxL8TK3VGrLA6j5LhdIB4-X13fJlrcHj8vwKxbKGFE2SJWgQXPclbX/s1600/birdinnest3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCIW0Th_T81l5GeZbd75B5ZHZT7TPsMD_PKcVPNEKZfUUCa_NhqrIxMgPuhNG363lifP8pra-E3RKXkkOCbJPNUpfxL8TK3VGrLA6j5LhdIB4-X13fJlrcHj8vwKxbKGFE2SJWgQXPclbX/s320/birdinnest3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twined nest and little bird right hand view.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I have been practising <a href="http://kaiteyarngarden.blogspot.com/2011/04/tutorial-making-fabric-stash-string.html">kaite's</a> twining, with some help from <a href="http://eclectic-meanderings.blogspot.com/">Deanna</a>. I made this nest out of twined scraps of thread and torn black linen. Very enjoyable way to use bits of thread that I have always hated throwing out.<br />
<br />
I also made a little bird out of fabric and felt scraps. I did this partly because the nest seemed to request a little bird but also because I went for a walk on the weekend through a beautiful orchard and watched a lot of busy, very busy, robins going about their Spring business. I also saw little quail strutting around with gusto. So, really, this little bird combines the two birds from the orchard and serves as a sweet memento of a peaceful afternoon with my husband.<br />
<br />
At close of needle I had only a few more rounds of my large coil basket to complete.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching everyone, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-1641907458478540192011-04-01T12:23:00.000-07:002011-04-02T19:10:13.089-07:00Large Cloth Coil Basket<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3oBrSD7izLacPs9PjtxoxlmQQ4oalcVnvq8F8-GMnrpcJUNvAUNvsD2NaQeWRVRe9JV_tiPeqmmTqJ8UUdUsdbnQ6MiCJNHcYEukbpuWRbexVX4veKWCpyRpXXhBSPbbN7s0ZZWkPm_UX/s1600/basket2closeup3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3oBrSD7izLacPs9PjtxoxlmQQ4oalcVnvq8F8-GMnrpcJUNvAUNvsD2NaQeWRVRe9JV_tiPeqmmTqJ8UUdUsdbnQ6MiCJNHcYEukbpuWRbexVX4veKWCpyRpXXhBSPbbN7s0ZZWkPm_UX/s320/basket2closeup3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Closeup of where I am working right now.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh0rpdpjz6njMHTkMuoZrBFbok7W64oMJYbcoPFmwZG3Wap41W6mAQjHazS3rLlPPXB9FYnAetOk_-Cllz__LrXXVONDgxd9MlE-0jjp4ew7Alev8laGw1HWZp_3zhmCPCu7Fpcmki0nuD/s1600/basket2closeup2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh0rpdpjz6njMHTkMuoZrBFbok7W64oMJYbcoPFmwZG3Wap41W6mAQjHazS3rLlPPXB9FYnAetOk_-Cllz__LrXXVONDgxd9MlE-0jjp4ew7Alev8laGw1HWZp_3zhmCPCu7Fpcmki0nuD/s320/basket2closeup2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And another, from the inside.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT4guYKWd1LtuRbKMvaLvvgIW_PxojBTG8E7rF0Tf9vDLZWJoLbO6ilf84SYY7ogFkbldvNHkMwpV_npUsDDvVkTZfvZvcOsOrn2p_dmIfPfkZ1e8alaSL5MQCza86ySSbqeanMtQs72XR/s1600/basket2closeup5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT4guYKWd1LtuRbKMvaLvvgIW_PxojBTG8E7rF0Tf9vDLZWJoLbO6ilf84SYY7ogFkbldvNHkMwpV_npUsDDvVkTZfvZvcOsOrn2p_dmIfPfkZ1e8alaSL5MQCza86ySSbqeanMtQs72XR/s320/basket2closeup5.jpg" width="269" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A different perspective.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Upon finishing the basket in my last post I had a lot of cord left on the reel that I had purchased from an op-shop. I decided to begin another basket. I enjoyed the process so much that I became addicted for few days!<br />
<br />
I really liked a large shallow 'baby basket' that I had seen in Susan Breier's book, <i>It's A Wrap</i>. Susan's work is inspiring and the book has good instructions. However it is all done by machine. I am pretty much committed to exclusive manual handling of cloth and thread and don't think I would give up the sensuous, tactile nature of hand work for anything - except (haha) sewing curtains maybe.<br />
<br />
The base of this basket is 14 inches, which doesn't sound much but it is really pretty large when you consider the diameter. I wasn't sure how I would go building up the sides and thought for awhile that my basket was going to be a failure. But I persevered and tried a few things and finally worked out how to go upright. Susan's book helped here with her description of different angling. I used soft cording but as I am not machine sewing I think next time I might try something a bit firmer for such a large basket. <br />
<br />
My aim in making this basket was to experiment as much as possible with building techniques and materials. I did. I have included many different textures and combinations wanting to see how they impacted the construction process. I explored what I like the feel of, what I could work with again, and what might be best for specific purposes. I haven't finished but I wanted to post it for you to see.<br />
<br />
At close of needle I still had not fully completed my embroidered garden, but will post it next ...I HOPE!!!<br />
<br />
Happy stitching everyone, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-1708007512758682332011-03-25T13:05:00.000-07:002011-03-25T15:38:47.966-07:00Cloth Coil Basket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-JJlqxdaz8qvgB1WhVn6IN7uqEpRvEG5HX4NXvB-65UYqZ2XV9XQVi7hCoKK_-L0lYRcMekxUziczxWukJzYj-Vc7iqSHkiezyJAsLLm3-5Mse6sUuHKu2Ps6euzOOmoGuaUhLlbN0SS/s1600/basket+closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-JJlqxdaz8qvgB1WhVn6IN7uqEpRvEG5HX4NXvB-65UYqZ2XV9XQVi7hCoKK_-L0lYRcMekxUziczxWukJzYj-Vc7iqSHkiezyJAsLLm3-5Mse6sUuHKu2Ps6euzOOmoGuaUhLlbN0SS/s320/basket+closeup.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbnu-d9uUTPIhTzHIvJ4OsHQLAiDWmW9h83fFX6ZPh8GSMXQhII8s99FsOzhteJ-0ngyM4L7aAauacwRsAHlbUpaahh1n18boZQcFvqnnVo4irX9CQNSGhWGXKzrcDdqjKDGC8ME-Gins/s1600/basket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbnu-d9uUTPIhTzHIvJ4OsHQLAiDWmW9h83fFX6ZPh8GSMXQhII8s99FsOzhteJ-0ngyM4L7aAauacwRsAHlbUpaahh1n18boZQcFvqnnVo4irX9CQNSGhWGXKzrcDdqjKDGC8ME-Gins/s320/basket.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cloth coil basket - eight inches diameter.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I have spent all my spare time over the last couple of days making this cloth coil basket. I have always loved these baskets and have not tried making one until now. It was very enjoyable. Quite addictive. So therapeutic! I learnt a lot from trying different techniques throughout the construction. It is basically covered cord that is bound and then built using a figure of eight woven stitch. I used tightly woven fabric that I found at an Op-shop. It has lovely clear colours which are refreshing after a grey and white, but mainly grey, Winter.<br />
<br />
I want to start another one immediately to practise what I have learnt. I want to improve the beginnings and endings of construction. I think I will make a cloth flower and bead configuration to cover the too abrupt ending on the right hand side of the bottom picture.<br />
<br />
At close of needle I had almost finished the embroidered garden that I spoke of last post. Very nearly finished!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Happy stitching everyone, Gilly.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHVYzj1NRGJ2ZZwR9Fv8CHE-_7xU6qZgiI96DW0y_U9677-8upI4TByJaeiSHQejTy0xuSWij9_BjcJcWFseBsJ4TcU7cqi6nLZqrolq8M-flFVfztKbKtnM4pHuxN4rWJpL0pWXGSbT7w/s1600/IMG_5038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHVYzj1NRGJ2ZZwR9Fv8CHE-_7xU6qZgiI96DW0y_U9677-8upI4TByJaeiSHQejTy0xuSWij9_BjcJcWFseBsJ4TcU7cqi6nLZqrolq8M-flFVfztKbKtnM4pHuxN4rWJpL0pWXGSbT7w/s320/IMG_5038.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Postscript: The modifed basket looks better - not too fussy?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvOf1psaHiq8gmreSW75iTDQKuwlqaLQDLOZoMRIv8WunOw7vjM5qKxp7FioTcZpC9v8xvAJYdmX5zVyvtWjg84-_CbMKScES3YXCA9y6_9nVpvY0iADPZSpoNwfAvnIsugIJ_5Ad5qdu0/s1600/IMG_5037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvOf1psaHiq8gmreSW75iTDQKuwlqaLQDLOZoMRIv8WunOw7vjM5qKxp7FioTcZpC9v8xvAJYdmX5zVyvtWjg84-_CbMKScES3YXCA9y6_9nVpvY0iADPZSpoNwfAvnIsugIJ_5Ad5qdu0/s320/IMG_5037.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Closeup - not great lighting.<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Storyclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-22076733880416299562011-03-16T10:41:00.000-07:002011-03-16T12:52:53.949-07:00Bright Flowers<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-PF_V3JvPxDw73btKlUHDdIWYqJKWdrYeWdYX1FD7VEEQK6OTa2meC9W_34rDaeOWdQnh7DlLGrBsSSGXkrd5so9u2PevPgTiL93g45WPtoirKch4uXN9bL88kd3iVjTsraPPvsYG3JHR/s1600/Bright+Flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-PF_V3JvPxDw73btKlUHDdIWYqJKWdrYeWdYX1FD7VEEQK6OTa2meC9W_34rDaeOWdQnh7DlLGrBsSSGXkrd5so9u2PevPgTiL93g45WPtoirKch4uXN9bL88kd3iVjTsraPPvsYG3JHR/s320/Bright+Flowers.jpg" width="235" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Bright Flowers</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>I tried some different techniques with fabric in <i>Bright Flowers</i> (9" by 6"). I like the contrasting textures; and the overall feel of flowers nearly at their peak before dropping. These cheer me up in the midst of our World's Japanese horror. I hope it cheers you up a bit too.<br />
<br />
At close of needle I was working on a formal garden worked mainly in textured embroidery. Again I am trying new stitches. It is looking a bit wonky so far. I need an embroidery hoop I think. I am treating it as sampler for new stitch work and so give myself permission to have it a bit wonky! If it is not too bad I will post it soon.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching everyone, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-47934228662758312902011-03-04T09:50:00.000-08:002011-03-04T13:53:59.462-08:00The Water Garden<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTS6VnVsGXTeWNLcBDn1EexEfe1saqCkdKkgAZuw4mUFP2-IsEmiBNWQKPNAmHz1ciNThF9f-bDjOgWgr_iMgD92Xjr0iAEhFwJPXDZ1PoeJtw55Syc0Ef1pzMvxnHDlEAvKw6bMmwYzar/s1600/water+garden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTS6VnVsGXTeWNLcBDn1EexEfe1saqCkdKkgAZuw4mUFP2-IsEmiBNWQKPNAmHz1ciNThF9f-bDjOgWgr_iMgD92Xjr0iAEhFwJPXDZ1PoeJtw55Syc0Ef1pzMvxnHDlEAvKw6bMmwYzar/s320/water+garden.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The Water Garden</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-bkTJc4dy9czQLLFIQ2WuWzBMq5LVukk8ZGE-kY_o1dQwCQk-x1ZPs_bJP3wNcwm9NL4-ckSvyJr-zXAyXWzuorigUfZyojHqT8nzOeJ87teXSeI89Hc2gdh7V_Q8QmkIjf7XPagF3b9j/s1600/IMG_5010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-bkTJc4dy9czQLLFIQ2WuWzBMq5LVukk8ZGE-kY_o1dQwCQk-x1ZPs_bJP3wNcwm9NL4-ckSvyJr-zXAyXWzuorigUfZyojHqT8nzOeJ87teXSeI89Hc2gdh7V_Q8QmkIjf7XPagF3b9j/s320/IMG_5010.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The Water Garden</i>: detail imitation tablet weaving (blue and brown stitching)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuXuiIDz41JnwQ0CRuZ2tqQsQEXOuYz_JWjwetNS1kQitD3QKNP82pG9J8IIBpuglVTcJS4LJCfhPaJKAgo-ea-yX2Z08bNXEJlXgtfw8ZaiNIlXTbe4aMxNfTPOYspctjKng2TnPG1SKs/s1600/IMG_5017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuXuiIDz41JnwQ0CRuZ2tqQsQEXOuYz_JWjwetNS1kQitD3QKNP82pG9J8IIBpuglVTcJS4LJCfhPaJKAgo-ea-yX2Z08bNXEJlXgtfw8ZaiNIlXTbe4aMxNfTPOYspctjKng2TnPG1SKs/s320/IMG_5017.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The Water Garden</i>: detail Bayeux Stitch top right.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><i>The Water Garden</i> (9 x 9 inches) is a symmetrical design made on a backing of woven linen/silk fabric. I am fascinated by pattern and symmetry; and the idea of a water garden is a very satisfying outlet for this passion. I had not done bead work, or most of these stitches before so it has been a wonderful time of exploration for me. Different levels of fabric or felt (central fountain) create some interest. I have incorporated into my overall design stitch work from Jan Masset's book <i>Celtic, Viking and Anglo-Saxon Embroidery. </i>This book was a surprise gift for me and, as is often the way with such gifts, is rich and inspiring.<br />
<br />
My mind is full of ideas that have sprung from making this storycloth. I can imagine myself there sitting by the central fountain and being aware of the sight and sounds of the four smaller surrounding water features (Bayeux Stitch). The glimmer of the beads and gold thread, in a regular pattern yet of random shape and colour, gives me a sense of balance between nature and imposed design. A harmony that often does not work, but in the case of small organised 'knot' type gardens does, I think, work beautifully.<br />
<br />
At close of needle I had prepared the final backing cloth for <i>The Water Garden</i> ready for stitching and then hanging. My next project will be another 'garden' and more exploration of stitches and textures.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching everyone, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-86214728833799683972011-02-21T08:59:00.000-08:002011-02-21T08:59:27.105-08:00Trapunto and Cording<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHVzNwzFQEDD9aQ4VdresNey_L9wWS-YgICLJ6g3SdIXRTKo75IWELIt6saGB_5B87dbxt1adkoGS8-U9NXPdKfFtbjIDy38Aclboh2Dbxxn78ufb2BD3FocSRsahe0SW6gL2Ekhi4uh6/s1600/blue+linen+closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHVzNwzFQEDD9aQ4VdresNey_L9wWS-YgICLJ6g3SdIXRTKo75IWELIt6saGB_5B87dbxt1adkoGS8-U9NXPdKfFtbjIDy38Aclboh2Dbxxn78ufb2BD3FocSRsahe0SW6gL2Ekhi4uh6/s320/blue+linen+closeup.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Blue Linen Flowers</i> - flower closeup.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-be6G30hmjIHz9p-RcIaYkXOKSvve9oqmtrasL5Ufb9UkyDZY_qL3QgfL9J9fNXw5JsK6KY44aFmjdF8anIYGi1WYfGagrhsDQlU70GCXQUT6NcRlIsK9rduPb_TFpdRRY82bf0GP52d6/s1600/blue+linen+twoflowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-be6G30hmjIHz9p-RcIaYkXOKSvve9oqmtrasL5Ufb9UkyDZY_qL3QgfL9J9fNXw5JsK6KY44aFmjdF8anIYGi1WYfGagrhsDQlU70GCXQUT6NcRlIsK9rduPb_TFpdRRY82bf0GP52d6/s320/blue+linen+twoflowers.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Blue Linen Flowers</i> - heart and flower closeup.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBbh7F7kXPVfDUZUyMMLgGO0aySDue2bNPy8UBY-Fwb5-wDT7F_Mj9ORkLfGeHAQA0pgdOu-9DSR3rwngwpkVz1s2sh3NRkiV9noIiiyBFga2ORPmozd7_UDqmj1kaLzYZrAPxWpuTroxW/s1600/blue+linen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBbh7F7kXPVfDUZUyMMLgGO0aySDue2bNPy8UBY-Fwb5-wDT7F_Mj9ORkLfGeHAQA0pgdOu-9DSR3rwngwpkVz1s2sh3NRkiV9noIiiyBFga2ORPmozd7_UDqmj1kaLzYZrAPxWpuTroxW/s320/blue+linen.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Blue Linen Flowers</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>I have wanted to try both cording and trapunto for some time now. I remember, as a child, my mother making a trapunto rabbit, encircled in an Art Nouveau style quilted circle, on a cushion. It appealed to me so much that the memory remains very strong, and I have retained a desire to work with trapunto. However the first thing is to try it. So I embarked on <i>Blue Linen Flowers</i> (six inches by six inches).<br />
<br />
The flowers and hearts are have both been filled with a little filling via incisions from behind. I found it difficult to evenly distribute the filling and they are still quite lumpy. I think one needs patience to insert only very small amounts of filling. I am not sure the best filling to use either - I used white polyester soft toy stuffing, I thought it would be alright but it is very springy. Maybe something a bit denser would be better, perhaps pieces of soft cotton fill. That may be even more lumpy though.<br />
<br />
I really enjoyed the cording. I stitched one line of stitching first, then lay the cord alongside and stitched it in place. That way I didn't have to thread it through and worry about getting around corners. It looks great encased in the linen, with the stitches on either side, and forms a good border around the trapunto flowers and hearts.<br />
<br />
At close of weekend needle I was about halfway through some more exploratory stitch and fabric work that I can't wait to post. <br />
<br />
Happy stitching everyone, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-58551166388444984522011-02-09T09:52:00.000-08:002011-02-09T19:00:30.412-08:00Cloth of Hearts<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXoAyNho180cuzpUaRW8IsPTp4x-rU2gLkOvbNU0I0Xy3nxnfJG7aXSviX2_c6OU5tx3cOj1r_C8taT0SWhEW8LxL4sVsydZVh7BiyiyJIN3E7wpa3kjOIw57tV9TDNaSq4bAR-Kenmw8u/s1600/cloth+of+hearts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXoAyNho180cuzpUaRW8IsPTp4x-rU2gLkOvbNU0I0Xy3nxnfJG7aXSviX2_c6OU5tx3cOj1r_C8taT0SWhEW8LxL4sVsydZVh7BiyiyJIN3E7wpa3kjOIw57tV9TDNaSq4bAR-Kenmw8u/s320/cloth+of+hearts.jpg" width="163" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Cloth of Hearts</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>I thought I would make a <i>Cloth of Hearts</i> for my husband for Valentine's Day. I felt I needed to because, on Robbie Burns Day a couple of weeks ago, after bringing me a morning cup of tea, he stood stationary at the end of the bed for a few moments then launched into a recital of 'My Love is Like a Red, Red Rose... which he had learned by heart for just this occasion! Of course I was teary and laughing all at once; and so happy all day. So you perhaps can see why I felt I needed to make a <i>Cloth of Hearts</i>! This cloth has a bit of a heraldic feel, which is what I may work further on before Valentine's Day arrives. I wanted this feel, maybe a portion of a knights banner... well my husband truly is my shining knight! This theme fits well with the poem I have for him - I know a few lines by heart - The <a href="http://charon.sfsu.edu/tennyson/tennlady.html">Lady of Shallot </a>by Alfred Lord Tennyson. A sad tale but such a wonderful love story with weaving included!<br />
<br />
I made my first attempt here at Prairie Points which I first saw on Deanna's <a href="http://eclectic-meanderings.blogspot.com/2010/08/sneak-peek.html">site</a> and thought they were just lovely with her rolled edges and she kindly sent me the instructions. Thanks Deanna!<br />
<br />
At close of needle I had attached the tassels to <i>Cloth of Hearts</i> to have a look at it overall and see what needs doing to complete it.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching everyone, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-35195747336367906802011-01-31T10:01:00.000-08:002011-01-31T10:06:54.271-08:00From Patches into Needlebook<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGnaIexNS3DO4SrJ-3UgqrTCJn_qCi7QZNA8-bFaEP4TE6oKhZ3-CePZse6UOJNskmQVnlzywyl2I45BfpWogew54l1Dw1U5MCVUZj_NWZxVCKK23HBhPRvE-3zvmLJubhVyRcl29ktNS6/s1600/needlecase+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGnaIexNS3DO4SrJ-3UgqrTCJn_qCi7QZNA8-bFaEP4TE6oKhZ3-CePZse6UOJNskmQVnlzywyl2I45BfpWogew54l1Dw1U5MCVUZj_NWZxVCKK23HBhPRvE-3zvmLJubhVyRcl29ktNS6/s320/needlecase+2.jpg" width="157" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Needlebook </td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnHGzVK8z7ikOSA9ipXoEr8vjyDVqeivHWKIiimNtfXOwIilRoVm9Kq-npyWEvOWpiYZ2eJ0RRvpgVtGmiDLbN6F9q5R0mHbnO5OtVq1sxroAxOSMIe_0-ceSbtoSjxki-a2mtJqvQmknC/s1600/needlecase+open+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnHGzVK8z7ikOSA9ipXoEr8vjyDVqeivHWKIiimNtfXOwIilRoVm9Kq-npyWEvOWpiYZ2eJ0RRvpgVtGmiDLbN6F9q5R0mHbnO5OtVq1sxroAxOSMIe_0-ceSbtoSjxki-a2mtJqvQmknC/s320/needlecase+open+2.jpg" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Open Needlebook</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Welcome to today fellow storycloth makers.<br />
<br />
I have moved to Stage Two for <i>Doors and Windows</i>, morphing it into a <i>Needlebook</i>. Hopefully it will be a doorway into the many windows of stitching joy for its new owner. The <i>Exercise in Patches</i> from last post felt so good in my hands - sturdy, textured and substantial - definitely a tactile piece - that I wanted to do something with it that would maximise the 'feel-good' aspect which is perhaps the best part of creating storycloth. Afterall it is in the mutliple feelings that story becomes story. So, considering its dimensions and feel, I decided that a <i>Needlebook</i> would be best. I am no expert on making tassels and if anyone has any hints I would be MOST grateful.<br />
<br />
At close of weekend needle I was holding this in my hand, opening it, closing it, turning the 'pages', passing it to my husband to open it and feel it. Looking at it open, looking at it closed... gently squeezing it - well you get the picture. It was just great!<br />
<br />
Happy Stitching everyone, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-9530745172979598922011-01-27T09:59:00.000-08:002011-01-27T10:02:58.196-08:00Doors and Windows: An Exercise in Patches<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQB_-h7W6LP3BZcfk08YXD9JinMnENwu9kEq4WK479tDwYybMWr-yjVb7jp9f0iSEPT49Jg1WJ3Gzsa8qB_WBGAjoGOd7C9FZ1GbpnZu41WRClDJxsxF4WmTwzvAZ6AGFJ8X3n6_EFoy1O/s1600/Doors+and+Windows+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQB_-h7W6LP3BZcfk08YXD9JinMnENwu9kEq4WK479tDwYybMWr-yjVb7jp9f0iSEPT49Jg1WJ3Gzsa8qB_WBGAjoGOd7C9FZ1GbpnZu41WRClDJxsxF4WmTwzvAZ6AGFJ8X3n6_EFoy1O/s320/Doors+and+Windows+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Doors and Windows</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><i>Doors and Windows</i> is an exercise in combining stitches and patches of linen. I have always loved the notion of mending and patches, the feel of old, soft fabric with rows and rows of stitches running through it, keeping an item whole. I love the thought of such care for an object, the simplicity and frugality that leads people to mend items - either out of necessity or love, or both. I have good memories in this regard - of my Nana darning socks and teaching me the rhythm of backwards, forwards and cross ways stitches. I also remember as a young girl mending a little brown velvet dog called 'Brownie' that belonged to my younger brother. It was bought for him at a local fete in someone's backyard, if I remember correctly. I often think about 'Brownie', the feel of the soft brown velvet, the couple of black thread stitches that formed his pointy nose, and my little brother watching, saying thank you. Sewing and stitching life. One day I will try to replicate 'Brownie' - just a lovely little pocket size dog. Soft.<br />
<br />
Referencing Nana again, (how important are Nanas in our lives!!) - Nana liked the saying ''if something is worth doing it is worth doing well'. I think my process of making <i>Doors and Windows</i> was done 'well'. I made notes and sketches, took time and care with the stitching. I thought about textures and colours, experimented. I re-stitched where necessary. Overall I am happy with the result. I wonder what might lie behind the doors and windows if I could just open them and peek. But, I think most importantly, I am very happy with my process. I loved every thorough second of it.<br />
<br />
At close of needle last night I put final stitches in <i>Doors and Windows </i>and dreamily planned my next storycloth while watching the Australian Open Tennis on TV. It occurs to me that the wonderful 'put'....'put'... rhythm of tennis balls being hit is akin to the deep, comforting rhythm of stitches in process.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-32493573816501184332011-01-21T09:43:00.000-08:002011-01-21T09:43:44.658-08:00Linen Flowers<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhltdy3IuV_SxHPs8qEIq3rjaw0MZ-B7QaeZcH_HE6HIj91DoszynbfokreAnyyVuZ18O0t9X5bEKDwEhC5IY_6EYiBXrb6bq_iwxUcdvNUOd0mnw8ojRITVm1fcDr8looagpPksNyz14Vy/s1600/Linen+Flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhltdy3IuV_SxHPs8qEIq3rjaw0MZ-B7QaeZcH_HE6HIj91DoszynbfokreAnyyVuZ18O0t9X5bEKDwEhC5IY_6EYiBXrb6bq_iwxUcdvNUOd0mnw8ojRITVm1fcDr8looagpPksNyz14Vy/s320/Linen+Flowers.jpg" width="235" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Linen Flowers</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>It has taken awhile to get this to this point. I have had one of those 'freezing' experiences where I was too scared (to be blunt) to take a risk with background stitches. I 'ummed and arred' about adding a butterfly, and whether to have coloured circles in the four bottom squares. In short I was not making progress. Except, hahaha, if you count getting to this point, of admitting my fear of risk taking, as making progress of sorts. Well I think it probably is progress of sorts because finally yesterday I thought to myself: 'Hey Gilly this was supposed to be only an exercise right from the beginning - just a design exercise and experiment using only linens'. This freed me up to do the background stitching. Afterall it is the only way to really experiment with different effects.<br />
<br />
I have not planned to forever leave a cross-stitch off the bottom left hand square - I am just experimenting. (Ha!) I wonder if the omission balances the overall design somewhat. Also I am not sure whether to make the nine sideways stitches on top right into full cross stitches. <br />
<br />
Anyway overall I have achieved my goal of working just with really lovely fabric - these beautiful washed out linen colors are from old table napkins. It is also backed in the same soft linen which makes the whole cloth a very pleasing weight. I am not sure what a book mat is, but it occurred to me that this a good size to lay my reading glasses on when I don't need them for a moment.<br />
<br />
So...at close of needle last night I had put the three bottom cross stitches in and decided to post as is, looking forward, as always, to any observations and ideas from my online friends!<br />
<br />
Happy Stitching , GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-57400621547528459022011-01-07T12:54:00.000-08:002011-01-07T12:59:27.612-08:00New Year Bookmark<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWvKw9TpFi2ucoSC4gqFCb8Ly-_vUdFuF91Mnc1uEMHaG-_C-4vVKtk_gJtUJrTAsS9dJL1soGBlGzUyXcfmSuubl-NVRsQlMXegCugGJNafvU4bNEHxUISOQ6hg7CHC3QYiERJ-YMJsrd/s1600/bookmark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWvKw9TpFi2ucoSC4gqFCb8Ly-_vUdFuF91Mnc1uEMHaG-_C-4vVKtk_gJtUJrTAsS9dJL1soGBlGzUyXcfmSuubl-NVRsQlMXegCugGJNafvU4bNEHxUISOQ6hg7CHC3QYiERJ-YMJsrd/s320/bookmark.jpg" width="83" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunny Flowers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Welcome to this New Year of 2011. I am back now in normal mode having recovered from the worst jet lag I have experienced to date! Our holiday period was fantastic with some great family get-togethers and lots of games with my grandsons. I think all the little storycloth presents were well received. It certainly gave me satisfaction to give them. It was not a warm few weeks in Australia but we did get to the beach once and have returned to Winter here with a slight tan.<br />
<br />
I made this bookmark around New Years Eve in the midst of post travel dizziness. I am using it myself and derive pleasure everytime I take it out of the book I am reading, put it back in, or just notice the flowers poking out of the book as I walk past. The black fabric is some sort of grosgrain tape that I had lying around - it feels a little synthetic and I won't use it again. But the overall effect is very cheery and striking.<br />
<br />
I made a minor New Year's resolve pertaining to clothwork. After I had finished the <i>Sunny Flower's </i>bookmark and realised that the feel of the tape was not that pleasing I decided that this year I will not use any fabric that I know will detrimentally effect the completed article. As a consequence I began work on a small linen storycloth, the first piece for 2011, using a similar flower theme as the bookmark but in different colours. I will post this as soon as it is completed.<br />
<br />
I have also been thinking about another perspective on creating storycloths. This time inspired by my four year old grandson. He constructs very complex lego designs using book length instruction guides. He will not budge on replacing the exact required piece with another, rather he will search for the 'right' piece. He knows every piece of lego in his enormous collection. He describes his process like this: "I always follow instructions". As he grows older he may become more flexible, which I am sure he would be even now in an emergency! But his approach, and his dedication to his approach, gives me cause for contemplation as I have always been the opposite. I have historically felt constrained by instructions, thinking that I am not being creative if I follow them. But I have realised that there is a place for deriving satisfaction from following instructions well. Doing something 'right'. Firmly establishing a base of knowledge and experience from which I can later experiment. I mean, in the case of recipes for example, there is something to be said for following an expert's recipe closely, being able to repeat a wonderful culinary experience time and time again. Likewise, perhaps, following cloth making instructions from an expert, from someone who knows how to make certain effects with cloth, is manifestly satisfying. For me, maybe creativity can be found in the dedication to learning an art well, humbling myself enough to learn deeply, exactly, thoroughly from another.<br />
<br />
At close of needle yesterday I had outlined the vase on my first storycloth for 2011.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching everyone. I will be getting around to blogs in the next few days. Thankyou for the comments on my last post for 2010. It is really great to read over them.<br />
<br />
GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-51322605295822001232010-12-05T12:39:00.000-08:002010-12-05T12:39:38.468-08:00Sneak Preview<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_73HUaWeokFKwkvOtI1SgQs1l_PxI-YkKNPp8up5Y0yu_byBWuVmD9vQXgbnoCADfC5qo7A_6gfE0z6lbZZDrgh56K9Wf2jR2-4QKhGBnk5vk8Kyp57bNHNuXW_ZnkvMjw8nMVqcOxjL/s1600/sneak+preview+christmas+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_73HUaWeokFKwkvOtI1SgQs1l_PxI-YkKNPp8up5Y0yu_byBWuVmD9vQXgbnoCADfC5qo7A_6gfE0z6lbZZDrgh56K9Wf2jR2-4QKhGBnk5vk8Kyp57bNHNuXW_ZnkvMjw8nMVqcOxjL/s320/sneak+preview+christmas+2010.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2010 Gifts for my Family. From Top Left to right: <i>A Call to Gather</i>, <i>Two Rabbits Gambolling in Summer Flowers,</i><i> Last Berries in Summer (x2), Sunday Evening, Two Angels with Goodnight Wishes, Two Bears Floating, Crossing Paths Homeward.</i><i> </i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>I have been very busy over the last week or so (thanks for noticing <a href="http://threeclaypots.blogspot.com/">Nan</a>) writing final papers for my study as well as finishing these storycloths. Well, I haven't quite finished them but as I will not be able to post now until the New Year I wanted to put them up to show. As you can see I have finished the second bear cloth as well as made changes to the original <i>Last Berries in Summer.</i> I was not happy with the colors and depth of tone and it took quite a bit of work for me to be relatively content. In fact, the bears have now become one of my favourites. It probably helps that I have completed all the final surface stitching on this pair. Oh, that was a really satisfying process. I can't wait now to work further on some of the others pictured. I am also very glad that I persevered with changing aspects of the bearcloths because I very nearly gave up. But, as perhaps you might agree, they convey a sort of charm now. The other newy is the rabbit storycloth. It is called <i>Two Rabbits Gambolling in Summer Flowers. </i>To my mind<i>,</i> it is full of fun and happy Summer-y movement. One other positive alteration is in the bottom cloth, <i>Crossing Paths Homeward</i>. You may recall that I was not happy with the original darker moon. I think the new moon is much more in keeping with the subtle tones of watery twilight.<br />
<br />
I want to express the depth of satisfaction that making these cloths over the past few weeks has given me. I began working on small cloth, following examples and hints in <a href="http://publishing.yudu.com/Library/Ax16p/JanetBoltonTextilePi/resources/2.htm">Janet Bolton's</a> <i>Patchwork Folk Art</i>, when I realised I needed some clear structure with which to begin to find my own voice in cloth. I am so glad I did. I would never have thought I would find satisfaction in this sort of design work. I have always had a propensity for just letting anything and everything roll out of me. I have enjoyed this so much that I will continue in this way for the moment. Next year I hope to take some of <a href="http://spiritcloth.typepad.com/">judes </a><i>Whispering Classes</i> and it will be interesting to see what happens with my creative journey then. I love jude's work, and derive immense enjoyment from reading, and interacting with, her blog.<br />
<br />
So, in appreciation at this time of the year it is appropriate to say thanks to the chief sources of my inspiration, my Mum, who sent me Janet's book, Janet Bolton and jude, as well as my blogging friends with without whom my storycloth world would be significantly less rich.<br />
<br />
At close of needle last night after stitching for hours, I pinned all my gift cloths up ready for the photo this morning. Now I will take them down to pack for Christmas. <br />
<br />
Wishng you all a peaceful holiday stitching season, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-27534292789603016272010-11-22T11:41:00.000-08:002010-11-22T11:43:48.526-08:00Anyone for Smocking?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZVn90Y3K_QOIyKQu4Qidq8ff5Ov14uw4Ho7WQA16D56NGzR1X4hKU9RMAyBKIVR5gl9LOlw9FqspT2q9v-w26wcv957_FYseWHerk0_sPpoXkQaO19gOB0KkergwhLu9zWkft7kkK9Vr5/s1600/IMG_4758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZVn90Y3K_QOIyKQu4Qidq8ff5Ov14uw4Ho7WQA16D56NGzR1X4hKU9RMAyBKIVR5gl9LOlw9FqspT2q9v-w26wcv957_FYseWHerk0_sPpoXkQaO19gOB0KkergwhLu9zWkft7kkK9Vr5/s320/IMG_4758.JPG" width="272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Surprise Gift</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I received an early morning phone call the other day - well it seemed early as I was still under warm covers and reading with a cup of tea at hand - from a wonderful quilting woman who was very kind to me when I first arrived to live here in Canada. She said she remembered that I once had mentioned I used to enjoy smocking when my children were young. Apparently she had received some goods that someone wanted to pass on to new owners and among them was a 'Sally Stanley Smocking Pleater' and a pile of books (I have only pictured half of them!). Well, as soon as she saw it she said she thought of me and was just phoning to see if I'd like them. Yes, yes, yes! What a wonderful morning surprise for me and, well, of course I could not ignore such serendipity! So now I have a beautifully maintained smocking pleater and many books redolent with their previous owner's fervour - handwritten notes and a very warm cloth-oriented spirit attached. I feel very blessed. I am also conscious of a sense of stewardship and privelege. I do not know who they belonged to yet I feel a sweet connection with her. I'm not sure when I will begin smocking again, however I feel confident that I will.<br />
<br />
At close of weekend needle I have been trying different border fabrics for the rabbit small cloth. I am debating whether I have made the base cloth too long for the rabbit or even for two rabbits. We shall see! I have also nearly completed the second bear small cloth. Christmas is drawing nearer and it feels great to have a little pile of storycloths ready.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching wishes, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-69616977312989920622010-11-15T10:16:00.000-08:002010-11-15T10:16:29.842-08:00Two Angels with Goodnight Wishes<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCOxZ6Dym_BE_Vp4j58GMuEz-YYcNQRNNTvgAEPeiZBWRHBVA4UBtORhhv_PiQjFyO7cu-7Z-CDdWzmsO4IDtsutYgBYExbbctXWyxcXX1_3eGMuOHh-fz79a1fNl2VIxSkEmJLdy1m7j4/s1600/IMG_4757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="107" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCOxZ6Dym_BE_Vp4j58GMuEz-YYcNQRNNTvgAEPeiZBWRHBVA4UBtORhhv_PiQjFyO7cu-7Z-CDdWzmsO4IDtsutYgBYExbbctXWyxcXX1_3eGMuOHh-fz79a1fNl2VIxSkEmJLdy1m7j4/s400/IMG_4757.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two Angels with Goodnight Wishes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>This is <i>Two Angels with Goodnight Wishes</i>, another duo to form part of the package of gifts for my family. It is taken directly from Janet Bolton. I have changed her design a bit to suit my needs. I am finding that following her designs closely is a really good way to learn about color, highlight stitches and overall composition. Janet, to me, is a genius of understated design. These measure six inches by three inches each and belong as a pair. I would like to make variations of this for all my family members. I would also love to have these in my own bedroom. It seems so reassuring to go to sleep with the thought of angels delivering good sleeping wishes outside my window. Lovely thought.<br />
<br />
At close of weekend needle I have laid out another Janet Bolton design - a rabbit. I also dyed a selection fabrics in brown onion skin, these are just rinsing now. There was one piece of cloth that had a streak of rust on it and combined with the onion skin has turned a lovely licorice colour. It may become part of a rabbit.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching wishes, Gilly.Storyclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-50067864456587913252010-11-08T15:46:00.000-08:002010-11-08T16:22:55.147-08:00Questions of Identity<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfpHYg74InFiLMtsMinE6QvsWEnvKoYVPaQZYMszf0q78WrGF0h1GKqUItpcGE2c1qNBNrRHBwm9ZA9nt3Ou01oJzW1l8tKozYTuHRQz4dOo1aeIsMTkapTAqCfFrIO0NzDX_7usJnDJp4/s1600/IMG_4744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfpHYg74InFiLMtsMinE6QvsWEnvKoYVPaQZYMszf0q78WrGF0h1GKqUItpcGE2c1qNBNrRHBwm9ZA9nt3Ou01oJzW1l8tKozYTuHRQz4dOo1aeIsMTkapTAqCfFrIO0NzDX_7usJnDJp4/s320/IMG_4744.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crowned</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I made this a few months ago, one of three storycloths about women in contemporary consumerist society. It is titled <i>Crowned</i>, an exploration of identity: cosmetic surgery, the expectations women struggle to live up to, the masks we wear, how difficult it is to know who we really are, how a smile sometimes betrays us, how we are tossed about by the way we think others perceive us, how difficult it is to be objective about ourselves, others, the world. <br />
<br />
It is interesting for me to look back on this and to see how my self-understanding has developed. This cloth was in response to young white women in western society where 'choice' is a term commonly used. For example if a question is posed: 'What do you think about the fact that it is increasingly common for young (and older) women to undergo cosmetic surgery as a pretty much 'normal' experience?' A typical response is "Well, that is their CHOICE'. Yes, on one level it is, but what external pressures are there that make women feel they need to change their bodily appearance? Women 'voluntarily' undergo surgery so they can try (and always, always, of course always fail) to meet the expectations of a consumerist, capitalistic, patriarchal society. A society which on a broad scale does not care if you look like a Barbie Doll - all that is really important are the dollars exchanged.<br />
<br />
Excuse my soap box - the outright oppressive manipulation of women's self esteem by capitalist ideology makes me angry. (On another note - let alone the cross-cultural oppression that goes hand in hand with capitalism.)<br />
<br />
So - it is interesting for me to see how, over a few months, my thoughts on this matter have consolidated and have now led to a public post. I do not critique women's individual choices because it is very important that we do have choice, rather I critique the values of consumerist society.<br />
<br />
At close of needle I muse on my small orderly cloths and how they reconcile with this political storycloth, and how they both emanate from the one being - me. Perhaps the face above reflects this also? There is more to this story.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-50541228737391472942010-11-01T16:47:00.000-07:002010-11-01T17:49:13.088-07:00A Call to Gather<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKwB_9oUFlpRVHzvg5r9MxjjqDGxmKKPYcfPiEX53UNmWqNX5orxrf10Q-qNcHv1iuPCzsZuTez5FS-nYTEmW84yrEuNrq8qqFGMxic6MwBKHtwCJiuJycKo_3irnYpb1S-Wua3OpyrP_I/s1600/IMG_4720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKwB_9oUFlpRVHzvg5r9MxjjqDGxmKKPYcfPiEX53UNmWqNX5orxrf10Q-qNcHv1iuPCzsZuTez5FS-nYTEmW84yrEuNrq8qqFGMxic6MwBKHtwCJiuJycKo_3irnYpb1S-Wua3OpyrP_I/s320/IMG_4720.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></div></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Call to Gather</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
This is <i>A Call to Gather</i>. It is 9 inches by 4 inches. It has different feel to last week's<i> Two Bears Floating</i>. It has a cooler, more subtle light, which it should as it is dusk whereas <i>Two Bears Floating </i>is in the middle of the day. I could not stop myself from finishing this. Each week I look forward to the next storycloth that seems to come from somewhere inside me. I feel these elephants are on their way to a burial ground. Apparently elephants are able to discern bones of elephants from among bones of other animals. They are such amazing, magnificent animals. I wanted to keep them unadorned but could not resist adding some hint of exotica by way of fabric bits. I am finding it a little easier to manage tiny bits of fabric. I surprise myself by enjoying more and more many hours of fiddling with colours and shapes and designs before making final decisions.<br />
<br />
At close of needle I am wondering how this deepening love of making storycloth is informing my own identity as Gilly. I feel I am changing, becoming deeper, stiller, calmer, with a bubbling joy far inside. It feels great.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-25231440701275366312010-10-24T13:48:00.000-07:002010-10-24T13:50:17.812-07:00Two Bears Floating<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx5q73ZOuim6jjWkCFPfu05H_eILt4Jv7BebmoqkkCYYBYzGBfSLN2FKDTjTf6rPXVNKjxYBG6sDeKAhcYoFeVF18DsLjU7aHX3_KEs8fag7LMYVGRukCkJ_MrKx1NouyMX4lv7A8gdTfV/s1600/two+bears+floating+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx5q73ZOuim6jjWkCFPfu05H_eILt4Jv7BebmoqkkCYYBYzGBfSLN2FKDTjTf6rPXVNKjxYBG6sDeKAhcYoFeVF18DsLjU7aHX3_KEs8fag7LMYVGRukCkJ_MrKx1NouyMX4lv7A8gdTfV/s320/two+bears+floating+2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two Bears Floating</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</a></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<i>Two Bears Floating</i> was a dream to create. It is the simplest design I have made yet. It was such an enjoyable process. The colours are as clear as crystal and the tonings worked well, I think. (You can tell I am pretty happy)!<br />
<br />
I am getting better at eliminating clutter. I feel that each time I begin a storycloth I am more more confident trying out, arranging and re-arranging. I can 'hear' myself thinking what I want the focus to be, what color and type of fabric, what effect I'd like to create. For example, the two sets of horizontal stitches at centre bottom took some working through. I didn't want any markers that took away the effect of free-floating, yet I wanted some little grounding point, formalised so it suggests human dwelling. I also wanted to pull the two pieces of cloth together, to provide an achievable 'bridge' between the two bears who seem to be floating inevitably away from each other. This is also why I added the birds at centre top - just a little, but I think strong, tie between the two floating bears. Marks that make the hope that the bears will get back together, more certain, if that makes sense.<br />
<br />
They are each six inches by three inches and together form this week's storycloth. Any honest feedback is appreciated. Really appreciated.<br />
<br />
At close of weekend needle I had begun the backing cloth for my next cloth. A wintery one I think.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching everyone, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-68904223686473852142010-10-18T13:25:00.000-07:002010-10-18T15:45:56.696-07:00Fabric Store versus Op-Shop<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6iYy797jLJmcmSpww1aH6PAG4uSEoblBC1bOVcEY1jYbZoUq4dZhhu3YlhvscTMKX1qUlQY7bmfJDXon8DBe4PN-cWW52QV09saPqS-YR_cT4_isq2rZFK-7KNYKtudOd27K_Qu82c-P/s1600/IMG_4543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6iYy797jLJmcmSpww1aH6PAG4uSEoblBC1bOVcEY1jYbZoUq4dZhhu3YlhvscTMKX1qUlQY7bmfJDXon8DBe4PN-cWW52QV09saPqS-YR_cT4_isq2rZFK-7KNYKtudOd27K_Qu82c-P/s320/IMG_4543.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Washed and ironed store snippets.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">I decided to experience buying cloth from a fabric store instead of limiting myself to op-shop purchases. I enjoy op-shop buys because there is such a good chance of finding interesting and unique fabrics. The down side is the bulk of items to deal with and store once I bring them home. As a result of my visit to a fabric store I found some great advantages in buying fabric thus. It was easier to find exact shades I was after, if I was attracted to a small design aspect I only needed to buy a small yardage, and the cost was not high when only buying a fragment. Overall though, I loved assembling the little pile of color and design. I could look at this little pile happily for the rest of my life. This pleasure reminds me of the immense satisfaction I derive from organising stationary items in drawer or on a desk. Fabric store shopping doesn't replace the thrill of the really great op-shop finds but it certainly does enhance the range of fabrics from which to choose just the right one for the task at hand. Plus it was really good fun - better than choosing a cheese from a Paris 'fromagerie'. That is saying something! I did learn that when washing these fabrics I need to put them in a little bag to minimise the huge tangled mess I had. Any tips regarding this?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">At close of needle I had nearly finished my second bear cloth. I will post it soon. I am pretty happy with it. The two together do make a stronger composition just as Janet Bolton comments in her book, <i>Patchwork Folk Art</i>.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Happy stitching all, Gilly</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAscRE76mhrm278pI6zmqV-eW7lgnhr2BHxQFjJsLc8rrJj03654kYGeUZpIyvZndssDqUfGyUeDxK6uvwwQUmthDqr2H4JNi3plj950xyvgCxCw-7mfCRuw2FrFg0z-gg0dX-T5iHJa-m/s1600/IMG_4542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAscRE76mhrm278pI6zmqV-eW7lgnhr2BHxQFjJsLc8rrJj03654kYGeUZpIyvZndssDqUfGyUeDxK6uvwwQUmthDqr2H4JNi3plj950xyvgCxCw-7mfCRuw2FrFg0z-gg0dX-T5iHJa-m/s320/IMG_4542.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tangled mess after washing.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Storyclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-81492556458850208492010-10-11T11:50:00.000-07:002010-10-16T09:19:44.331-07:00Crossing Paths Homeward<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxp_q82HOmoVRlE0roZUdBmlyWX0BdfzTSCqDgpkSZcKuI4B1m7n0UWYCHbMdyVpe-04Iwi_7gwpTuNFnNh6MGiPD6KOucDN1MeHfUeaMW40Eklf_a3iu0kWtxejN72hQsqJXgoyBHOsZ4/s1600/cph2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxp_q82HOmoVRlE0roZUdBmlyWX0BdfzTSCqDgpkSZcKuI4B1m7n0UWYCHbMdyVpe-04Iwi_7gwpTuNFnNh6MGiPD6KOucDN1MeHfUeaMW40Eklf_a3iu0kWtxejN72hQsqJXgoyBHOsZ4/s320/cph2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="318" /></a></div></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing Paths Homeward</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
This is <i>Crossing Paths Homeward</i>, my storycloth on this Canadian Thanksgiving weekend. There are fragments of cloth dyed with brown onion, wolf lichen, and rust. It is four inches by three and 3/4 inches. This is my first try at a small dwelling in the background. It has taken hours of looking, trying, shifting etc. Hours of pleasure. Well, of course, this is to be expected and is integral to the overall enjoyment of cloth making. This piece satsifies something within me. It has elements which allow my mind to wonder about the who, where, why and how. It has some personality but not so much that disallows a viewer from imagining their own tales about the characters, place, and time. This is my design, but includes elements which are completely attributable to Janet Bolton. This storycloth is my favourite so far. There is a small, bearded figure with a walking cane at bottom right. I 'm not sure how clear it is on screen. He is crossing paths with an outgoing whale, as both continue homewards. <br />
<br />
At close of Thanksgiving needle I am very thankful. <br />
<br />
Happy celebrations Canadians and happy stitching everyone, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-61698967742574799892010-10-04T09:19:00.000-07:002010-10-14T20:52:33.466-07:00What to Add?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDFeGbUgwqyjSm8j6CTjYwX5p0MgroQD4bjD98_ct1kOgkXKi2__7ocvqto5lT537Dx3ZB3VA3QJOmNMHFBzhuahGIrxacPxlD4Co1Q7zuH96Pk4bZf7Ygzl_wqJqQJ7O3_8O2rLyAdCeT/s1600/IMG_4683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDFeGbUgwqyjSm8j6CTjYwX5p0MgroQD4bjD98_ct1kOgkXKi2__7ocvqto5lT537Dx3ZB3VA3QJOmNMHFBzhuahGIrxacPxlD4Co1Q7zuH96Pk4bZf7Ygzl_wqJqQJ7O3_8O2rLyAdCeT/s320/IMG_4683.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="216" /></a></div></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What to add?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
To date, I have sewn this ram and cat onto cloth and do not know what to add next. I have tried a sun and some flowers. But I am really at a loss. I think one of the reasons for my confusion is that while this piece is a small cloth, at eight and a half by five and a half inches, it is actually about twice as big as I have been working with. It seems there is so much space, and my propensity for clutter is overwhelming all sensible thought. Hahhaha.<br />
<br />
Any suggestions most welcome as I am struck immobile over it.<br />
<br />
On a lighter note we went rafting with sockeye on the weekend. It was such a beautiful and exhilarating experience that I thought I'd share a happy pic.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAF9Rk2AdW4v2UNeW6jDMqtHMbCbb1pi3-yn4ORGhZcx72mijZo9SA-sxCzrvpGQODWzMbFIgZygkHiM5mQzHZAhr1jpa8HVl138AW8vFtCICDS59Bf8V5O0Kk2CPZrxd-9MvcpbnqI8AF/s320/IMG_4671.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There were a couple of jokesters on board.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAF9Rk2AdW4v2UNeW6jDMqtHMbCbb1pi3-yn4ORGhZcx72mijZo9SA-sxCzrvpGQODWzMbFIgZygkHiM5mQzHZAhr1jpa8HVl138AW8vFtCICDS59Bf8V5O0Kk2CPZrxd-9MvcpbnqI8AF/s1600/IMG_4671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEN4QoqpZvOxyIqg17leCdEVGm1P5_Y89pZuB0sJIV4CGigZVWeY3AV2q8QcULzbzHIYkS0BejRW3JTKl6qHiNNcY8eN-aOWbTVghbYYh0sXFFu4mNDJvO3qkPBx6HGpCrjSBe21Qg8Dh_/s1600/IMG_4650.JPG" imageanchor="1"></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMcngQEYi04fxeQg7RiXB9O3urnahpXSVpXdsKoOob2_NkF8hCHGQvD9JMbafFQa6kbAsX_bTrrWsrQCqsrkZb3aXtxTl7EFbOdCpWw3d__VrqTOg5nn2AkcrqDUVL1Xwuj9oS20Z8njr8/s1600/IMG_4655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>We had a great weekend. I returned home after rafting alive with retained sensory impressions - colour, texture, smells, intertwining shapes, sounds of the river and human laughter. Plus I was suffused with a sense of reverence for the sockeye journey, somewhat torn over whether we should have been there at all. I do not see a huge division between humans and other animals.<br />
<br />
At close of weekend needle I was still considering future moves over the ram and cat cloth.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching, GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2905879541316023509.post-52131676317432797282010-09-27T09:42:00.000-07:002010-09-27T09:50:11.961-07:00What Fun, What Fun<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLvBR8L7AIyX2pNroIMI5FFMN7mJTGbD9f5KlgOnNxYj52nzYrXKKvIGbV6SV_QuQU5tZiNZOByh__aQVOD3ov5B_S3UL1p9aJD1N2YiQaTGUq3YmyNT6iCFyJlOBoCYRNRM2DcLq-Wh7/s1600/IMG_4600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdLvBR8L7AIyX2pNroIMI5FFMN7mJTGbD9f5KlgOnNxYj52nzYrXKKvIGbV6SV_QuQU5tZiNZOByh__aQVOD3ov5B_S3UL1p9aJD1N2YiQaTGUq3YmyNT6iCFyJlOBoCYRNRM2DcLq-Wh7/s200/IMG_4600.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last Berries of Summer.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>This was such fun to make. It is another small piece, six by four inches, and despite the small dimensions, took a considerable while to complete all the stages of construction and sewing. I feel I am getting better at discerning between fabric, colours and textures. However it takes time, and a certain stillness of being. This bear has a partner storycloth which is on the way to completion. I really enjoyed working french knots on the sky. I also decided to try Janet Bolton's suggestion of adding little stars. It really does brighten the whole cloth up, and works very well with small pieces of silk fabric. I am surprised because I thought I would not like the addition.The left hand vertical bar is muslin dyed with brown onion skins, and the right hand side of the sky is silk dyed with wolf lichen. The colours aren't showing really well in this photo. The wolf lichen cloth is a pale lemon-y color.<br />
<br />
At close of needle yesterday I had walked away from a jumble of scraps of fabric as I was still in the planning stage of<i> Last Berries of Summer's</i> second piece. This morning I have started afresh with morning eyes, and have nearly decided on the cloth choices for the second bear storycloth.<br />
<br />
Happy stitching; and I love visiting everyone's blogs. A wonderful community of cloth makers.<br />
<br />
GillyStoryclothhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00622702492075455318noreply@blogger.com10