Hello Gentle Readers. This week leaves turn and begin to fall. The colors, while not as vibrant as some years, are familiar. I don't know about you but these days, seasonal change comforts me. Even though this past week brought 90 degree afternoons, the mornings were pleasant. As I walk, I listen to the sounds made by the wind and visit the white rose bush that blooms along a neighbor's fence. Yesterday clouds blew in as temperatures dropped. Rain is in the forecast.
Although Kat is not posting a link-up today, it's Wednesday and I'm here. I completed the pouch embellished with small scraps and embroidery. This was a project with low stakes made to try something new. Choosing tiny scraps, some with strong memories, others with none, and plunking them down in a square was fun and absorbing. Somewhere I heard a tip to use a tapestry needle to bring the yarn for the grid up from the wrong side, lay it on the line, and push the tapestry needle back down to the wrong side. Then I couched it (attached by stitching) onto the fabric. Threading the ends back to the wrong side allowed me to adjust the tension as I couched it down and also to tie a knot on the wrong side that kept the ends from popping loose.
I machine sewed the sides of the lining but otherwise constructed the project by hand. I find hand-stitching much more peaceful and less anxiety producing than machine stitching.
Because one project is never enough, I'm working on a cover for another stitch journal. Perhaps "circles" will be the theme for most of the stitch pages although that could change.
My reading has been lack luster. I returned two books to the library that weren't for me. Currently, I'm listening to This Book Made Me Think of You by Libby Page. It might be another novel I return without finishing which is ironic considering how long I waited for the book. Before the husband of the main character died, he arranged for her to receive one book per month for a year after his death. I thought the nod to books and the way they affect our lives might be enough for me. However, I'm finding it a little predictable and syrupy sweet. At another time or for another reader, it might be just the story.
I hope you are enjoying some fall or spring color and these October Days.
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| Zinnias and lavender continue to bloom. |
I really thought we had moved on to Real Fall this past weekend, when we got the remnants of the hurricane (in the form of heavy rain) and I needed a sweater, but no -- yesterday we hit 82, my roses are blooming again, and I spotted a dandelion in the neighborhood. I even had to turn the AC back on upstairs because we were all too hot last night! In any case, your pouch is lovely and such a great way to use up those little bits. I think sewing by hand is very meditative, so I'm sure the whole process was very soothing for you.
ReplyDeleteIt's been too warm for me the past couple of days (in the 80s) but we have a big change coming next week. I just ordered heating oil, so I shouldn't complain about warmer temperatures. I do like your idea of being comforted by seasonal change. It's mostly predictable and happens every year, which is much better to concentrate on than the volatile news. I very much enjoy seeing your stitching no matter what the theme is. Enjoy your zinnias, lavender, and October.
ReplyDeleteI like the feeling of control I get from hand stitching. The machine seems to want to take over and we are not always of the same mind. Your pouch is charming as is the cover for the next stitch journal.
ReplyDeleteYour stitching is incredible. I admire all of the different designs you come up with. I enjoyed This Book Made Me Think of you...but I'm kind of a sappy sweet reader. Have a good week.
ReplyDeleteI have recently picked up and quickly returned a few library holds too. I am finding non-fiction, memoir, and poetry to be my sweet spot right now.
ReplyDeleteThese stitch journals are really charming. I love the idea of using scraps and stitches with sentimental values.
ReplyDelete(sorry that comment above was from me, I forgot to sign in)
DeleteYou are really coming along on the stitch journals, so creative! I've been working on hedgehogs, socks and a hat. I'm re reading A Tree Grows in Brooklyn probably the fourth time maybe? it's like being with old friends.
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