the felt needle book I made for my mother, aged 10!
In these times of deep economic recession, up-cycling old items of clothing into new inventions is all the rage. Couple this economic gloom with the dark days of winter (for me, a traditional time of hibernation), what better way to while away these long winter evenings than a bit of hand-stitched patchworking? A recession-busting activity not only good for the soul but also kind on the wallet. With the first buds of Spring just around the corner, and my first grandchild due in the Summer, what better incentive is there than to channel my excitement at the prospect of becoming a Grandmother into making something like a unique cot quilt to welcome the new arrival?
Once Liz (at Threads) had shown me how to make a patchwork ‘flower’ using a hexagonal template, there was no stopping. I had planned the whole project to be a surprise, but my daughter ‘skyped’ me one evening and caught me ‘in the act’. Having owned up with some relief that I could now enjoy my progress with her, she was absolutely delighted with the flowers I had produced thus far, calling them ‘stars’, a description which I prefer.
a few ‘stars’
reverse view
Having bought a selection of new materials from Liz to get me started, I then raided my old trunk for other likely scraps I could use with the result that my ‘starburst’ patchwork is now studded with patterns from my own family history. Scraps gleaned from old jeans, surplus curtain hems, discarded arm-chair covers, cotton shirts and old duvet covers, finding a new life in a quilt lovingly put together for this very latest addition to the family, slowly embedded with a scattering of old family memories.
rough layout
Far from being boring and repetitive, this activity is proving to be a very satisfying and therapeutic thing to do, particularly when only half an ear is required for telly viewing. For such intricate, close-up work, (my eyesight being no longer 20/20 vision, not that it ever was), a strong light and a needle threader are vital aids for the job. The needle threader, being no bigger than the width of a human hair, does have to be treated with the utmost respect. I’ve already lost one in the pile of my rug, so have taped my current one to its holder so that it shall not escape, or I shall be utterly lost.
I am already looking at other types of quilting techniques and particularly like the creative aspect and sometimes random method of patchworking. This one, my first, is evolving as I go along, a creative technique that is very familiar to me. But I fear I will become more ambitious. I’m already planning other quilts and looking at what people are wearing with a critical eye! I think I shall have to raid the charity shops for a new source of material, even though in these times of austerity, I think most people are probably holding onto their old clothes. Perhaps I might tap into the wonderful ‘network’ that is Network Cornwall and get a message out there that I am looking for scraps of material for up-cycling! I have never known this network not to come up trumps.
This is beautiful Caro! Admire your patience, never could do a thing like that. I have an old pair of jeans falling apart, which I am happy to donate, if you like to have them. xxx Anja
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Thanks Anja…..plenty of ‘jean’ material too thanks! It’s actually quite tough to work with but great in small doses. cxxx
Caro
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Who’s a busy girl then, quilt looks great! but hands off my wardrobe, I know there’s a lot of old stuff in there.
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Moi! Wouldn’t dream of it!! To be honest, the thought had not yet passed through my mind….but you’ve got me thinking now….some nice checks….ummmmm!!! However, there is a difference between ‘worn’ and just plain ‘threadbare’! ouch!
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I could donate all of my clothes at the moment but I’m hoping one-day to fit back into them.
I am totally inspired by this quilt and I can feel mini-G doing cartwheels at the thought of getting his/her hands on it. Lots of love xx
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I am so pleased baby-G is pleased with progress thus far…tho’ I hope (s)he doesn’t get too dizzy with all those cartwheels! Trying to keep the colours ‘neutral’ as we don’t know if we are talking pink or blue yet, means it will be a big dolly-mixture of colours….and all the more fun for it. Have just posted a plea on NW, for more material…..so we wait to see what happens next……all my love to the three of you xxx
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Saw your request on NC and thought I’d have a look at your quilt. It’s gorgeous and quite inspiring. Not sure I have any fabric to donate but will keep you in mind.
Enjoy your Grandchild! It is such fun being a Granny!
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Thanks for your kind words, Sally. Early stages yet but still full of enthusiasm for the project. I like your blog too….and a lovely idea to cheer us all up.
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Hi Caro,
good luck with the quilt, Imade a hexagan quiltt cover when I was 17 and still have it some 35 years later and reasonably in tact. I prob have some bits and bobs that you could use but live on the edge of Bodmin Moor?
Keep on stichin`..I have just written a book which incudes how `being creative` was therapeutic for me when recovering from an ’emotional breakdown’.
Enjoy the new bambinoxx
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Thanks Sue…..and for your words of encouragement. Perhaps I could call in quickly on my way up country in April?? xx
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