When a dear relative was cleaning house recently, he kept us in mind and brought over the work of three of his family antecedents. The items range from Victorian times to the 1970s. In the mix are all kinds of textiles, representing many different needlework techniques.
Since Bluework is near and dear to my heart, and in light of my recent ongoing series of articles on that topic, for The Quilter magazine, (Sept. and Nov. 2007 issues), I thought I’d show one of the two Bluework embroidered items found in the stash of goodies.
Bluework Child’s Coverlet – two layers
photo copyright: James Cummings
This is an unusual design as it shows only the outline of various animals, but no interior details like facial attributes. Some of the images are reverse images of each other. This is quite wrinkled. We hung it out in the sunshine and fresh air. I suspect that, like others of its kind, this was made about 1910. There is a round potholder with a crow, embroidered in Bluework, as well, that matches the design on the coverlet.
The utter simplicity of the designs translates into a kind of “sincerity” of intent that is hard to describe. I hope you have enjoyed seeing one of our latest, unexpected acquisitions. It has been a sheer joy to go through these items so kindly given to us.
I have started a yahoo group for all kinds of Outline Stitch embroidery. We are an active group! You are invited to join. Please provide your name when you request membership. Thanks! See the link at my main website.
Pat
