Textile Tales

 Good morning....don't faint! I'm back again so soon lol! Have you jumped into the new year with gusto or easing yourself into it. I have done a little of both. I am still happily quilting my Gathered Treasures at night when it's a bit cooler...it's been so muggy and humid here.

Textile Tales is begun. First order of the day was to create a cover. I have it 6 inches by 7 inches and have cut the pages slightly smaller to fit inside. I used a cream base on the front to build on.

And a beautiful piece of Cath Holden fabric...that I couldn't bear to chop up for the back. I loved the vintage feel of it. The book is set in the 1960's, so it just had that feel to me.

I have used a light weight batting to give the cover substance. A few folks have asked me how I prepare my base for slow stitching. I cut the fabric about a half an inch larger than necessary and then press it to the back and tack it on place over the batting. I love the feel of this method when you add embroidery etc.

And then the pretty bits could start. I loved utilising this beautiful piece of selvage. I came home with a bagful from my visit to friend Fiona's. I love that you can use bits and bobs that would otherwise be discarded in slow stitching. 

I embroidered a little name plate and added a bee of course. Plus some old lace and embroidery. I am happy with the front. I just need to find a vintage bee themed ribbon I have for a tab under the button. You know how it is....put away somewhere safe....NEVER to be seen again until you DON'T  need it *sigh!

I have used bright pink here and there because the sisters house in the book was pink!

I am planning on quilting the back cover a little just for texture. So not quite done yet.

I do love that fabric....so that's the beginning of my tribute to.....

Earlier this week Granddaughter, Miss E. and I hit the art shop. She had a fist full of gift vouchers from Christmas AND  her birthday back in May. Miss E. had been hoarding them because she had her eye on a bigger prize. So she was cashed up. Mum doesn't have the patience to understand how you just have to caress every lovely pencil, brush and pen before making a decision lol! So Nana stepped in. Art purchases can't be rushed don't you know!

I was supposed to be there as chauffeur and guidance but of course I  CAN'T keep my hands to myself in an art store either....we had a great morning!  Not sure who enabled who! Like minds and all that. Plus she's good company.

Before Christmas I had gone on a little country drive with some friends and we visited this great gallery space called The Churn Room at Samford way across the other side of the river from me.

I bought these beautiful botanically dyed threads.....

So I'm looking forward to using them on my slow stitching this year. Aren't they pretty.

OK lovely people. I am off to have a play with some of my new arty purchases. I'm downright dangerous with a paint brush so wish me luck!

I wish you a day of being whatever you fancy it to be.

Namaste and Blessings Michelle xxx