http://www.etsy.com/shop/MontreatDesigns

Thursday, March 31, 2011

White on White

The daffodils are blooming in Montreat, and the azaleas are about to burst, but it is cool and chilly.

I am playing with white on white and seeing how far I can get before I have to commit to a larger design area below. The work is soothing and satisfying.

As I watch the world in chaos on CNN, there is a lot to be thankful for in my little spot on the mountain.





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Monday, March 28, 2011

A Stole for Pentecost

This will be in my shop later today... Ruby red dupioni silk with a contrasting stripe silk for the flame accented in gold metallic thread. An original hand embroidered design that I hope you find to be an elegant and fresh interpretation of the traditional representation of the dove and flames of the holy spirit.


 

Monday, March 21, 2011

A rough sampler

I am trying a freestyle sampler as a relaxing tool, and it's working!! Here is the perle floss on dupioni... A tone on tone....In lavender...


-And here is what it looks like with a bit of a trim...



I like the effect, but I think it would really look better white on white and perhaps more of a lattice incorporated into it.. May try that in a bit for a white stole I am planning.... Will be leaving it on the frame to play with..

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Homage to Japan

Givenchy's Spring 2011 Collection presented in Paris was all about the beauty of Japan. The exquisite embroidery work was mind-boggling, and was both modern and traditional in technique.




You may recall seeing Cate Blanchett wearing a piece from this collection at this year's Oscars (my favorite dress of the evening).







Please donate to your favorite charity.

Chatelaine

Here is an image from the Victoria and Albert Museum of a beautiful chatelaine. Named after "the mistress of the house", they contained all sorts of handy items that one might need, including thimble buckets, compasses, keys pencil holders and paper.... The variety is endless and the craftsmanship and design of these items are limitless! They moved from being worn at the waist to being worn around the neck (on ribbons or chains) as fashions evolved and waistlines disappeared. It is worth the time to throw into your favorite search engine to see these beautiful designs...










And another example off the Internet:








Red Stole Detail

Here is a detail from finished embroidery work completed today....flames and dove for Pentecost. I hope to have it up on Etsy soon!!!