Saturday 12 December 2009

Table cloth

As of last Sunday, the last stitches of the Christmas table cloth were sewn in place. The background to this piece is that it was found while sorting out my grans things after her death. Among numerous threads, frames, needles and wools this table cloth -thread-less and un-started became mine.

With the design printed onto the linen the task was to select colours and match them to the areas upon the cloth, with no chart or guide this was really playing by eye. The next task was to start learning the tricks and the methods of embroidery. My gran loved embroidery and she had an amazing talent for its many stitches and techniques completing many tablecloths both well used and loved in her time.

Sadly with her passing I had to learn from between my mam and the Big book of needlework from 1936 that we have upstairs. I think for a first attempt at embroidery and being able to undertake this challenge in three months - its turned out rather well if I do say so myself.
With Robbins, squirrels, bells, Christmas Trees and poinsetta's.
It has since been ironed ...
Even found some fancy sparkly threads with are slightly metallic like to add a Christmas feel especially with the star and decorations for the tree.

So at least one part of the Christmas table is sorted already!

7 comments:

  1. Oh Veryy pretty. I used to do cross-stitch embrodiery. It's hard lol. This is really pretty. I like the sparkly threads on the ornaments for the lil tree. Congrats on doing the challenge!

    Happy early Christmas

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  2. You've done an amazing job, and how special about your Gran, I'm sure she would be very proud.
    Have a fabulous day!

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  3. Wow, that table cloth turned out so gorgeous!!! You are really talented. The little tree with the ornaments is just adorable :)

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  4. It's lovely, good for you.
    such a typically 40s design.

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  5. My dear, your creation is positively stunning! Your needlework is so beautiful and well constructed. I adore this festive heirloom that you've handcrafted, thank you very much for sharing the fruits of your creative labour with us!


    Joyful holiday wishes!!!
    ♥ Jessica

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  6. Oh look at all the lovelyness!!
    The squirrels are excellent, all of it is beautiful, very well done you! :D x

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