Linens, Laces and Vintage Needlework...

Brynwood Needleworks - Linens for new project totes

These are linens and trims I pulled for my next project totes. I've chosen soft, hand-dyed pieces that you'll surely love as much as I do. I'll be making and listing them in my Etsy shop very soon.

Brynwood Needleworks - Vintage Laces

Last Sunday, Handsome and I spent the afternoon with our friend, Ellen. She's been sorting through her things, and set aside a bag of goodies just for me!

Brynwood Needleworks - Vintage Crocheted Doilies (roses and grapes)

All of these lovely laces, crocheted doilies and linens were handmade by her or her own mother. They're true treasures from her hands to mine. Look at those gorgeous crocheted roses and grapes!

I mentioned that I really want to learn how to make the roses when we were together at Paneras last week. I had no idea that ladies were making grapes, too!!

Brynwood Needleworks - Vintage Table Linens With Needlework

Ellen's mother created all the wonderful vintage table linens she shared with me. There are crocheted lace edgings, cross stitch and embroidered pieces, and even cutwork accents.

Brynwood Needleworks - Vintage Table Linens With Needlework

She lovingly stitched flowers and baskets - full gardens to adorn their family table. These were all loving touches she created to adorn her home for her family.

Brynwood Needleworks - Vintage Linens With Needlework and Crocheted Lace Edging

I can well-imagine all the time it took for her to create these pieces. Look at the intricate crocheted lace. That alone would have occupied many hours.

Brynwood Needleworks - Vintage Table Linen with Crocheted Edge

This piece was especially intriguing to me. I think that the pink was originally made into its own table cover, and when the larger fabric deteriorated, she cut away the corners and made a new tablecloth, adding the crocheted edge.

Brynwood Needleworks - Vintage Table Linen Repair

Ellen and her mother grew up in a time that repaired damaged things rather than tossed them away. When this tablecloth developed a hole, she repaired it with more loving stitches so she could continue to use it...and now it has come to me. I will care for all these pieces as Ellen has, and I'll find a way to use them, as well. 

As I sorted through these treasures yesterday, I found myself thinking about Mom Grace. It was inevitable. She taught me needlework and set me on this lifelong love affair. She taught me to appreciate the craft, and to continue to improve my own skills.

I look at these pieces and I'm so grateful that Ellen gifted them to me...and that Mom taught me to value all handwork. I hope that when the time comes, I'll find someone who shares my love of these pieces and become their new caretaker.