I decided to have a little fun with the remnant of silk I had leftover from "The Dress."
After all, a drawstring bag for jewelry and accessories is practical for the day of the wedding, and it will be perfect for accomodating wedding keepsakes in the future. And did I mention that I've always wanted to try my hand at embroidery?
It's my first real attempt at satin stitch, hence the many mistakes! For the record, it's not a good idea to "learn" embroidery on something that's supposed to be an heirloom...
I was at a loss when it came to the slender bits, since backstitching looked ridiculous. So I pulled out my dilapidated 1960's Vogue sewing book (the only real sewing book I have unpacked right now!) and perused the embroidery section. The solution? The outline stitch. It took me a couple of tries to figure it out from the very basic line drawing and brief instructions. But it was incredibly easy once I got the knack for it. It has a more finished look than the backstitch, and it's much more enjoyable, too!
When my future mother-in-law gave me a lace medallion (beautiful Spanish bobbin lace purchased by my fiance's grandmother), I soon discovered that I had the perfect opportunity to showcase it:
Framed by a circle of outline stitch, and ready to be passed down to future generations:
Wow, Shannon, that is gorgeous! What a fantastic idea for your wedding day! I'm so impressed that your dress is ready as well.
ReplyDeleteSorry for my lack of comments on your blog lately. I forgot to add your new blog to my blog reader. I was actually thinking you must be busy with wedding plans because you haven't been blogging. Imagine my chagrin when I realized you WERE blogging all along and I was missing it!
Lovely work as always!
bobbin lace?? does your fiancé´s family come from Castille, Castilla y León in particular? I love bobbin lace. My grandmothers are from Castilla la Mancha, which is a province where sadly no bobbin lace was done. Therefore, I have always been willing to learn and never got a chance!!!! Though there are many courses in Madrid, i will join... some day! You should see women doing it. I cant believe they actually distinguish one thread from the other!!!
ReplyDeleteYour heirloom is beautiful, you are an amazing seamstress! Your fiancé is a lucky man :-)
Absolutely Beautiful! I can't wait to see what your nimble fingers produce next!
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
-Jessica
Oh, how beautiful, Shannon!! You are so talented! :)
ReplyDelete~ Blessings,
Lindsay
Keri, please don't apologize! :-) I haven't been blogging as much as I'd like, but I'm determined to keep it up -- it's sort of my "sanity" in the midst of all the preparations! It's good to hear from you again! :-)
ReplyDeleteElena, actually my fiance's grandmother purchased the lace while traveling in Spain. I can't remember the name of the region it was made in. I was familiar with English bobbin lace (which I love), and didn't realize it was done in Spain, too! I have a little kit for making lace, which I have yet to really try -- maybe one day both of us will be able to make bobbing lace! ;-)
Jessica and Lindsay, thank you for your kind words!
Blessings,
Shannon
Hi! It is not known where bobbin lace is original from, but the bets are Spain or Italy. I didnt know there was an english bobbin lace! I have to check that one!!!!
ReplyDeleteOh, that is so exquisite! :D I love the add on of the lace on the back, gorgeous! You are just so talented Shannon! And you will look so elegant and beautiful on your wedding day I am sure. :)
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
~Rachel~
Wow, your bag is breathtaking! There's no way I would guess that was anyone's "first attempt." REALLY lovely!
ReplyDeleteHi Shannon.
ReplyDeleteYou are absolurely amazing!! I wish I had half your talent. Ever think of teaching classes? I would be your first student.
Love Irene
It's beautiful! I have tried embroidery before, but not the satin stitch. I've always been a little intimidated by it! But you did a lovely job.
ReplyDeleteHave a very bright, very cheerful day!
Miss Eyebright
Shannon, you are so talented! I agree with Laura - I would never have guessed it was a first attempt - amazing!
ReplyDeleteOh Shannon!!! How beautiful, and what a perfect accessory on your wedding day! You did a wonderful job. Are there any tips you have for those of us who have always struggled with satin stitch? I could never get it right although I've tried several times! :(
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to see pictures of your whole ensemble together!! Not much longer to go. :)
It is stunning! I see no mistakes! Your future little girls will be so delighted by it! ;)
ReplyDelete