pieces of heart :: 15

By now you know that I have many, many buttons. This one is from a set of four and they appear to be handmade. Whatever they are, I do love them...all four. Like the button from Erin's lost sweater, this one is perfectly at home on the red wool doll shawl.

But I think my favorite part is actually the simple feather stitch which makes me feel as though I am following the traditions of my grandmother. She probably called it goose tracks, sensible country girl that she was. Each time I start that stitch I have a moment when I can't remember the how and why of it. Which way does it start? Where do I come out with the needle? And then it comes back to me, Here, then there. O, this is fun, I could stitch this pattern forever.

The red and white textile was thrifted so long ago, I can't remember where, but is one of two, both so treasured that they hardly ever come out of the drawer. That's kind of silly.

And thanks everyone- reading the tea mouse names was more fun than the Oscars! Drawing tonight. xoC

Comments

[Debbie]

I think my favorite thing about your work is how you use things you already have - gives me the courage to actually press in to service items I think are too precious to alter...thanks for sharing.

[Mona]

I so love your little mouse in teacup! I wanted to buy one when they were for sale, but did not have the money at that time. Charlotte, I have followed you for years.
Years ago when my son, Danny, was about 5, he was eating lunch and quietly said "Mom" and I looked up and he was holding a potato chip in the shape of a heart. The following years brought every imaginable heart shaped object, from rocks, foil, twisty-ties. Once he grabbed my hand, and took me to show me a heart shaped design in a wooden door. I have kept all these treasures, and believe it or not, I still have the potato chip! When I first saw the little mouse I thought she looked like Penelope, but if I got her I would name her Dani.

[clarice]

I love this heart. I have to learn the feather stitch, it does not look that hard. I am enjoying seeing all your hearts. xoxoxo Clarice

[Lilli]

I know what you mean about enjoying a stitch. I just took up embroidery again and have been doing mostly backstitch.

http://makemineblissful.blogspot.com/2008/02/this-is-what-ive-been-working-on-these.html

My latest coup is remembering how to do daisies. I don't think I've ever done feather stitch, but it looks so pretty and wispy. I'll go take a look at it in my embroidery book.

[sadie527]

Thanks so much for your "pieces of heart." I've really enjoyed your series. I have long collected "found" heart rocks, driftwood etc., and hearts crafted of memory-imbued fabric & bits are wonderful. Your wee mouse is sweet as can be. I would call her simply "Cozy." - Amy Bauer

[Sally]

I'm so especially glad to find you here today Charlotte with another charming heart post. You're my safe haven this lunch hour, while I sit here, awaiting news.

My dad went to the ER last night and he will have to have surgery either today or tomorrow - hopefully we will find out when shortly.

I left the hospital to run home for a bite of lunch since we knew the doctors wouldn't talk for awhile - and now I'm eating M&M's by the handful, staring at my computer screen and trying not to freak out. WAH!

Everyone's mousie names have brought a smile, such fun. :)

[Rebecca]

Oh! How much do you want for that button? :) Wow, I love that button. Hope you are well sweet friend. Love all these hearts so.

[ann-marie]

ZOEY!!!! i am so inspired by your blog and all your creations! i thank you for sharing-i really cannot even imagine how you balance your busy life/work/art- keep it up!i adore this blog! ann-marie