There I was doing a pile of ironing in what I call my scullery, absent-mindedly gazing at my pretty shelf, and looked at my dear little 1950s embroidered pictures properly for the first time in about four years. A connection came to me at once!
Some time ago I unearthed the most fabulous sample books of hand-dyed silk threads, originally created by Lucy Coltman’s Designer Silks. I mentioned this when I last created some Vintage Notions boxes, where I used up all the lovely subtle colours. I had been pondering how to use the bright, zingy-coloured threads I had left, and suddenly I knew they were screaming out for a vintage-style project with some cross stitch, lazy daisy stitches and some pretty knots. The result is this new Treasure.
I am sure that many of you will need no suggestions to make use of the treats in this box, but for us less imaginative mortals I have come up with some traditional line drawings to tempt you. I have added them along with some general instructions.
My vintage pictures include a lot of French knots – I can tell you a story about those! Years ago, I was working on the finishing touches of a book for Publisher David and Charles. As always it was 2am in the morning and I was completing a games sampler. The crib board had French knots in abundance and by the time I had finished, the knots were either on the back of the fabric, halfway down the thread or had disappeared! I have to admit to having a real paddy and made the decision to crack French knots for once and all…
A space for washing and ironing needs some interesting distractions!
The instructions for French knots supplied in the box are the result of my bad temper. Having said that, I am aware that many of you still pull faces when French knots are mentioned. I am suggesting Colonial knots as a substitute and I have prepared a little video of me making this pretty stitch.
