Sometimes the source of inspiration comes from unexpected places. Like when I recently found this bundle of colorful wool yarn at a thrift shop; undoubtedly, remnants from someone's needlework projects. And I might add, quite a find for a quarter. Score! Looking at it, I began to imagine all the possibilities. But due to time constraints and other priorities, I had to set it aside. Then, the following week, I wandered into another shop and behold--a set of old crewel-work patterns just waiting. I tell ya, sometimes it's uncanny how these things happen. I knew immediately how I would use the yarn. The little bird design is the result of some finessing on my part, and will be included with the June bonus designs on the PatternBee website that go live on Monday. The embroidery can actually be done with floss or wool. (I used one strand of wool with a crewel embroidery needle for this--or use 3-4 strands of six-strand floss or more, if you are so inclined. Pearl cotton will work beautifully as well.) Click on the birdie to see it finished. I goofed and printed this one in reverse though, so the bonus design will actually be facing the opposite direction. It's stamped onto hemp cloth which is similar to linen in texture and feel, but much more substantial, I think. I picked up this piece in a small shop out of town, but have also been experimenting with goods from Dharma Trading Company; really love this weight in particular for a variety of needlework projects, and it's also suitable for clothing. $16+ py may seem pricey, but it's 59" wide. One yard will go a long way. (I'm thinking like: zakka smocks and aprons--yes, definitely aprons!)
This has been such a busy week with lots of things happening, and people coming and going. We had an impromptu dinner party for twelve on Thursday. A little bit of a celebration. The weather has been incredibly nice too, and with friends visiting from out-of-state, we took full advantage of it and felt a backyard BBQ was in order. Even had our very own live Celtic band. It was perfect.
On the flip side of the property, day three of garden wall construction continued. I'm actually headed outside to get my hands dirty. Looks like a great day for it.
Have a good weekend doing what you love!
Oh, what a brilliant lot of yarn, and what a pretty project you've done with it! You're so clever! I love it. Can't wait to see your garden wall, Vicki!
XOXO
Joni
Posted by: Joni | May 30, 2009 at 10:11 AM
That is such a precious little bird, and what a wonderful assortment of colors you found! A great deal indeed for wool yarn. And how serendipitous,to find the patterns, too!
I've embroidered with floss, and I've needlepointed with wool yarn, but I've never done crewel. I guess I should give it a try.
Posted by: Janelle | May 30, 2009 at 11:00 AM
Lovely finds and such beautiful work. This is timely, because I wanted to come here and thank you for being a Needle Pulling Thread Inspiration! I finally made time to stitch one of your animals in aprons and I love it... I hope you will peek at it.
And thank you, many times.
Posted by: Natalie | May 30, 2009 at 11:02 AM
How pretty! It's beautiful here today and I am enjoying the day!
Posted by: Lavender Dreams | May 30, 2009 at 11:36 AM
Beautiful little bird!! Tweet Tweet!
Posted by: Miss Paula | May 30, 2009 at 11:44 AM
What great finds Vickie :) I love the little bird, so cute! I really need to start working on some unfinished embroidery I found at the Thrift Store.
Have a great day!
~Sharon
Posted by: Sharon D. | May 30, 2009 at 11:44 AM
What a lovely little birdie and what a great thift shop find. I'm always on the look out for thrift shop bargins, especially when they can create something as cute as this. Thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Lucy C | May 30, 2009 at 12:06 PM
What a sweet find and and even sweeter bird! Our thrift stores don't have such cool stuff.
Your garden wall is beautiful.
Posted by: Karin | May 30, 2009 at 12:42 PM
Sweet Tweeter!
I know this may be an elementary and somewhat obvious question to others, but I'm gonna bite the bullet and show my ignorance. Can you wash things that are embroidered with wool?
REPLY: Yes, low alkaline soaps are fiber friendly, such as Equine soap, which is basically what the "quilt soaks" are all about. Use cold water and air dry so there's no shrinkage and less chance of dyes running.
Posted by: Mindy | May 30, 2009 at 04:52 PM
I love the crewel. My Grandmother did so much of it. I love the little birdy. So so cute.
Posted by: Cindy | May 30, 2009 at 07:14 PM