Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Handmade happiness

I wanted to show some pictures of this embroidered table runner I found awhile back in a second hand store. Most of the things in our home are from second hand stores or flea markets. I've heard that's very trendy now, or "green", since you are recycling. Still, my sweetie and I have always loved "old, dusty stuff", as our kids put it.

But I'm getting off topic. I wanted to share this because every bit of this piece has been hand-stitched and appliqued, along with its cutwork and scalloped edges. Oh, my.

Look at the delicate stitchery. I don't know whether to sigh or cry.

And these wee stitches - how long do you think it took to make something like this? How long ago was it made? I'm guessing the 1930's by the floral design, but that is just a guess.

I think about the woman who made this. Were you a young homemaker, a granny, or a little miss practicing her needlework? Whoever you were, I admire your craftsmanship.

When I went to pay for this, the cashier exclaimed,"Oh look at this - no one appreciates this stuff anymore!" "Yes they do," I smiled.

10 comments:

alexis nicole said...

It's beautiful, an almost lost art. There is something about "old" that is delightfully intriguing!

Rhys Lake said...

Hey Jodi - very very cool design. It's so cool what you find in stores like that, Joy and I want to take you to an Antique store we found the other day just down the road :)

I love the last photo you put on, I think it's so cool the amount of photos you put on your posts - it makes the post so interesting and eye-catching. Keep them coming!!

Rosie said...

Whenever I see handmade items I think, "Gee, I wish I could do that!" If only my brain and hands would cooperate ... but I love to see it also, so thanks for sharing! :^)

Rae said...

Oh so much a piece of art. So beautiful...the handywork!I too enjoyed your story. I've been doing this( just yesterday) for years and I love it more than going to a department store.
Have a wonderful day!

Unknown said...

I love that. Good job finding that! It's so beautiful.

Niamh said...

So quaint! I like it. I like the minimal applique and embroidery, it makes it look more delicate.

Linda said...

It is really exquisite, especially those tiny stitches. A lot of patience and practice in those stitches!

Joy said...

Excuse me my dear acorn!! "Old dusty stuff?!?" I think you should should note that some of your kids would say that. Rhys and I went to an antique shop on our day off last week. I was disappointed at how small the shop was. I did see a cute teapot that I might go back and snap up. Yes, I think I might own a few teapots. I'm always been partial to copper kettles as well...

That table runner is lovely. I love applique. I do love the work that went into things like that. Table runners are a lovely option when you have such a nice wood table like you do.

<3

Jodi said...

I think we should go as a group to tell the cashier that there are still people who "appreciates this stuff". Lol, thanks for sharing everyone!

Jodi said...

Joy, okay, okay--SOME. oxo

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