tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69307520935199609482024-03-18T12:23:13.857-07:00Italian NeedleworkJeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.comBlogger361125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-70107677158962259812016-07-28T19:21:00.001-07:002016-07-28T19:21:02.752-07:00Lady Puncetto and the Valle Vogna<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><i>This article appears in this month's <a href="http://www.giulianaricama.com/" target="_blank">Giuliana Ricama</a> in Italy so if you'd like to read it in Italian, you can find it there. </i></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Towards the end of the 19th century an educated and cultured Irish lady from a good and rather important family passed her summers, perhaps for health reasons, in the Alps. She travelled all the way to the <i>Val Vogna</i>, a small Piedmontese valley and fell in love with the place. She particularly admired it's hardworking women who, left alone for many months of the year while their men were working in France, looked after their families in great poverty. A fire destroyed one of the small hamlets and the lady had a generous idea which, for the valley, turned out to be a brilliant one. She gave the hamlet the money to reconstruct the few houses and animal stalls and as repayment she asked for pieces and lengths of the local <b>Puncetto</b> needle lace. Returning home to Ireland she was able to sell all the lace to her friends and many acquaintances. She arrived the next time in Piedmont with orders for more items and started up the <i>Valvognian Industry</i> with it's base of operations in <i>Ca' Verno</i> (Riva Valdobbia). She worked with the help of Agata Maria Teresa (Marietta) Frascotti Favro (1841-1899), an elementary school teacher, who had taught the working of <b>Puncetto</b> in the surrounding area, and who was the wife of the owner of </span><span class="s1"><a href="http://www.casalpinareginamargherita.it/" target="_blank">Casa Janzo</a> (Riva Valdobbia), the hotel where the Irish lady stayed during the summer. Clorinda Barile Favro (1877-1962), a pupil of Marietta, managed the business activity of the </span><i>Valvognian Industry</i>. In this way the women of the valley started to earn with the <b>Puncetto</b> that they made. </div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HxrHU_DtrLg/V5qxHMgIucI/AAAAAAAAEAk/IlP3tvcG9gom_ehkZ_YMVvE7kIIbe4kWgCLcB/s1600/puncettaie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HxrHU_DtrLg/V5qxHMgIucI/AAAAAAAAEAk/IlP3tvcG9gom_ehkZ_YMVvE7kIIbe4kWgCLcB/s320/puncettaie.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">A few lacemakers from the Valvognian Industry including Aurelia Barile, <br />Teresa, Carolina and Maria Andoli and Clorinda Favro.</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
The Irish lady, a great traveller, used her numerous connections to sell the lace. The business grew and came to include the working of other types of lace and embroidery on Irish linen. In this way they helped to relieve some Irish poverty as well. Through a barrage of articles in newspapers and women's magazines in England, Europe and also in the U.S. and through orders taken during national and international expositions, the women of the <i>Val Vogna</i> experienced a period of very productive business and unexpected comfort.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mad1NACZUcY/V5qzxtmHIxI/AAAAAAAAEAw/Uok6fA0ghBcg72WLbI2VrkE5PsnmT-qFQCLcB/s1600/catholicworldEMLynchVol66-1897.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mad1NACZUcY/V5qzxtmHIxI/AAAAAAAAEAw/Uok6fA0ghBcg72WLbI2VrkE5PsnmT-qFQCLcB/s320/catholicworldEMLynchVol66-1897.jpg" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Eliza Matilda Johnson Lynch 1846-1917. Catholic World, 1897, vol. 66, n. 391, p. 137. <br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Over the last century there has been much misinformation about the Irish lady. Legend and myth became fact and when facts were not known, unfortunately for history, they were invented. She signed herself E. M. Lynch, and this has created much confusion. Through the advent of periodicals online and great genealogy websites, today we can finally get a few clearer ideas. The most important one is her name. She was called Eliza Matilda Johnson. Born in 1846 in Ireland, she then married Captain Edward Aloysius Lynch in 1866. Eliza was a suffragette and was active in England, making speeches and participating in campaigns for women's rights. She wrote articles for many magazines and newspapers on social problems, travelling and the uses and folk costumes of the countries she visited. She even wrote a bit of fiction. In Davos, Switzerland in 1901 she published a small volume called “Valle Vogna and its lace industry” collecting images and many articles which had appeared in newspapers and magazines about her business in Val Vogna. A second edition (1905) of this little book can be found among the book collection of the Italian scholar Elisa Ricci. The collection is now held by the Civic Central Library in <i>Turin</i>, Italy. Another copy of the second edition, with a dedication written by Mrs. Lynch can be found in the Thomas J. Watson Library of the Metropolitan Museum in New York. An Italian version was translated and printed by the Walser Gmai of <i>Alagna Valsesia</i> in Piedmont in 1992.</span><span class="s2"> After the death of her husband in </span><span class="s1">1899, Eliza continued to travel to Italy and other parts of Europe. In her later years, she settled in <i>Sanremo </i>in Liguria. She died in <i>Triora</i> (Liguria) on the 8th of September 1917. There is still much to learn about this Irish lady and her activities. This is the beauty of research in the world of Italian embroidery and lace: I never stop investigating, discovering and learning.</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-86183804473935221212016-05-08T09:26:00.000-07:002016-05-08T09:26:02.601-07:00Bargello Embroidery<br />
<b>Bargello Embroidery</b> seems to be enjoying a bit of a revival lately on both sides of the Atlantic. I've seen lots of it through the various North American needlework guilds and also on Facebook among Italian stitchers. The designs, patterns, colours and use of imagination are wonderful and a delight to look at.<br />
<br />
This technique goes by many names: Flame stitch, Hungarian point, Bargello, Florentine stitch, Gobelin stitch, Irish stitch and many others. There is a fascinating English language article on possible origins, different styles and extant examples that you can <a href="http://wkneedle.bayrose.org/filum/filum_oct_02.pdf" target="_blank">download and read here</a>.<br />
<br />
For the Italian take on it, a Google search for "<i>punto fiamma</i>" produces some spectacular examples. It is a technique used often for upholstery on things such as chairs and cushions, if you pay attention in the Italian museums, there are sometimes chairs set around the perimeter of the rooms which are cordoned off so you can't sit on them. These are easily passed by and ignored but close inspection can reveal some wonderful Bargello embroideries which have faded and deteriorated over time but which are still great examples of very complex Bargello embroidery patterns.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Is-mjA_jD_A/Vy9nmb86CeI/AAAAAAAAD9Y/SuhgRkjIdkUETU4lPwxeFVnExwXJwNKRgCLcB/s1600/Bargello-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Is-mjA_jD_A/Vy9nmb86CeI/AAAAAAAAD9Y/SuhgRkjIdkUETU4lPwxeFVnExwXJwNKRgCLcB/s320/Bargello-1.jpg" width="215" /></a></div>
<br />
If you are looking to stitch a little taste of many Bargello designs, have a look at this wonderful sampler by <i>Maria Elide Melani</i> of the association <i><a href="http://www.agoagaefantasia.it/site/index.php" target="_blank">Ago, Aga e Fantasia</a></i> of <i>Pistoia</i>, Italy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMaA4CpL6Ek/Vy9nmHHduTI/AAAAAAAAD9U/GIpnF-2qvbk3nXC9pklj9ohFjQbaGBssACKgB/s1600/Bargello-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMaA4CpL6Ek/Vy9nmHHduTI/AAAAAAAAD9U/GIpnF-2qvbk3nXC9pklj9ohFjQbaGBssACKgB/s320/Bargello-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Each section is a different Bargello pattern separated by drawn thread channels. I like this idea as then you don't have to worry about trying to work out how to have your various patterns butt up neatly against others, and the drawn thread work creates some definition to the sampler itself.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R3HqJ1KJcMQ/Vy9nl3s-zdI/AAAAAAAAD9Q/2oXZ52OfEhUa9vrXNNKZcYhcVEu76FKhACKgB/s1600/Bargello-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R3HqJ1KJcMQ/Vy9nl3s-zdI/AAAAAAAAD9Q/2oXZ52OfEhUa9vrXNNKZcYhcVEu76FKhACKgB/s320/Bargello-2.jpg" width="215" /></a></div>
<br />
The pattern booklet (text in Italian) is available from <i>Maria Elide</i> herself, <a href="mailto:info@agoagaefantasia.it" target="_blank">send her an email</a> or contact her <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mariaelide.melani" target="_blank">via her Facebook page</a>. Please note that the drawn thread work and hemming is not explained in the booklet.<br />
<br />
There are 21 different Bargello patterns to stitch with lovely close up photos of the finished embroideries to copy from. You could then easily adapt any one of the patterns for a towel border or for placemats or whatever your heart desires!<br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-36726307951475273072016-04-28T07:38:00.004-07:002016-04-28T07:38:55.898-07:00Tassel books!<br />
<i>Maria Rita Faleri</i> has been hard at work creating a series of books on handmade knotted tassels. <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2015/08/knots-and-tassels-and-maria-rita-faleri.html" target="_blank">In this post</a> I told you a little bit about <i>Maria Rita</i> and since then we have been chatting back and forth during the development of this great series that she has started. As I also wanted to let you know how to get your hands on these books, I have been holding off telling you about them while <i>Maria Rita</i> worked out how people outside of Italy could purchase them easily. She has settled on ebay which seems to work quite nicely. Those of you who are in Italy can contact her <a href="http://www.esemplario.it/" target="_blank">through the Esemplario website</a>, set up specifically for this series.<br />
<br />
<i>Maria Rita</i> wanted to start this series with the aim of creating step-by-step manuals for these tassels and the knots used to create them in Italian. She felt that there wasn't a lot in the way of instructions for Italians which meant that they had to refer to books in other languages, so the text of these books is in Italian. However, the step-by-step photos mean that those who don't speak Italian can easily understand. I did translate the instructions for the Turk's Head knot and Maria Rita plans to put it on the Esemplario website just as soon as she can.<br />
<br />
The first book in the series is about making tassels with the Turk's Head knot (and many variations of it including an elongated one which is quite nice to use as the tassel head):<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oqaa4lZXLvs/VvqiNq2URyI/AAAAAAAAD7g/QwDeAm8LJaQeOCGkT63wBx0X9RvHo1syA/s1600/copertinaturco.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oqaa4lZXLvs/VvqiNq2URyI/AAAAAAAAD7g/QwDeAm8LJaQeOCGkT63wBx0X9RvHo1syA/s320/copertinaturco.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tatchNhbRiQ/VvqmUxxtZWI/AAAAAAAAD7w/MZmmiI0hxAkdyQI2uOMY7EzV8G4hTLTnA/s1600/NodoTestaTurco-Pagina-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tatchNhbRiQ/VvqmUxxtZWI/AAAAAAAAD7w/MZmmiI0hxAkdyQI2uOMY7EzV8G4hTLTnA/s320/NodoTestaTurco-Pagina-10.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sample page of step-by-step photos.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To make the Turk's Head knot, <i>Maria Rita</i> uses the aid of bamboo sticks and I managed to find some <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00KDBQPGO" target="_blank">double-pointed carbonized bamboo knitting needles on amazon</a> which work very nicely though they are not exactly the same as what <i>Maria Rita</i> uses, they work just fine. Before I found these though, I just used kebab sticks and they worked too, though I got a few splinters.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Included in this book are instructions for the basic Turk's Head knot, the elongated Turk's Head knot, the wrapped knot and instructions for the assembly of a half a dozen different tassels using what you've learned.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The second book in the series is about making tassels with the Franciscan Knot and the Simple Knot:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YXLtd44RGik/VvqiVtcxkKI/AAAAAAAAD7k/6NOCL_v47J4QOc6H5iCS2i3Bj7ZSkPfNQ/s1600/CopertinaFrancescano.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YXLtd44RGik/VvqiVtcxkKI/AAAAAAAAD7k/6NOCL_v47J4QOc6H5iCS2i3Bj7ZSkPfNQ/s320/CopertinaFrancescano.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ou7c0TCE96U/VvqzAwg9oYI/AAAAAAAAD8A/9aYxTnkOrCEIjZthtqQ4XWwQijQxsPg1g/s1600/LIBRO%2BFrancescano%2Bpagina26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ou7c0TCE96U/VvqzAwg9oYI/AAAAAAAAD8A/9aYxTnkOrCEIjZthtqQ4XWwQijQxsPg1g/s320/LIBRO%2BFrancescano%2Bpagina26.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the tassels included in the second book.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This book also has instructions for the basic Turk's Head knot, much more detailed instructions for the wrapped knot, different tassel head ideas and assembly instructions for a dozen different tassels and some bomboniere too! Many more applications spring to mind just leafing through the pages.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<i>Maria Rita</i> has other plans for this series, not just tassels but embroidery techniques as well. Different projects will be released separately as leaflets or kits using the techniques from the books. I personally can't wait to see them and will let you know when they are available. You can purchase these books from ebay.it searching for object number 131794775737 for the Turk's Head book and object number 131794778449 for the Franciscan Knot book. If you are in Italy, you can <a href="mailto:manuali@esemplario.it" target="_blank">contact her via email</a>.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-76698822380207592582016-04-14T09:41:00.000-07:002016-04-14T09:42:20.730-07:00Rare Needle Lace Patterns <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hHjDS6Q13tM/Vw-_sb2Zj5I/AAAAAAAAD8g/zWEr906rKBIo4qwDYV1iBWwHHdON5sBvwCLcB/s1600/LavorieriCopertina.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hHjDS6Q13tM/Vw-_sb2Zj5I/AAAAAAAAD8g/zWEr906rKBIo4qwDYV1iBWwHHdON5sBvwCLcB/s320/LavorieriCopertina.png" width="224" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm so excited to tell you about a booklet that has just come out. It is a facsimile reprint of a rare 16th century needle lace pattern book currently held in the public library of <i>Forlì</i>, Italy.<br />
<br />
Besides 44 plates of needle lace patterns, there is also the story describing the rediscovery of this particular copy and its significance as well as detailed information on the very few other surviving copies. There is some controversy as to the true author of the patterns and the editor of this reprint, <i>Bianca Rosa Bellomo</i>, lays out all the known facts and hypotheses - it is a fascinating read. There are few words about the structure of the designs and then some highlights as to the subject matter of the patterns themselves with respect to the heraldry and symbolism represented. All text is accompanied by precise footnotes and there is a valuable and detailed bibliography for further study.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WP-HfjDG110/Vw-_tJV6noI/AAAAAAAAD8s/SuRp91EI78MFSqUSLf-R0e66WB_3MZDfQCKgB/s1600/LavorieriIntro-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WP-HfjDG110/Vw-_tJV6noI/AAAAAAAAD8s/SuRp91EI78MFSqUSLf-R0e66WB_3MZDfQCKgB/s320/LavorieriIntro-1.png" width="224" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2KWDR9DvYn8/Vw-_ujfsIMI/AAAAAAAAD8s/xt_6ut5zphALPoFZWSWlW0czS1s3nYX5QCKgB/s1600/LavorieriIntro-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2KWDR9DvYn8/Vw-_ujfsIMI/AAAAAAAAD8s/xt_6ut5zphALPoFZWSWlW0czS1s3nYX5QCKgB/s320/LavorieriIntro-2.png" width="224" /></a></div>
<br />
The first plate is a design incorporating the coats of arms of the Gonzaga and Este families as the original pattern book was dedicated to <i>Margherita Gonzaga d'Este</i> (1564-1618) the Duchess of <i>Ferrara</i> at the time.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Margherita_Gonzaga,_Duchess_of_Ferrara" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HByGPaq8DVQ/Vw_Gbg0D_RI/AAAAAAAAD84/MXkUw4iArd8KxZwGoNHol4ID5sHTUeOsACLcB/s320/Giovanni_Bahuet_Margherita_Gonzaga.jpg" width="176" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Margherita_Gonzaga,_Duchess_of_Ferrara" target="_blank">Margherita Gonzaga d'Este. Photo from Wikipedia.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A-Hef2Cvjs8/Vw-_sIdXXJI/AAAAAAAAD8s/dMAA3xhRS2kzfL045wpEH8ovhAPpXgcmQCKgB/s1600/GonzagaEste.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A-Hef2Cvjs8/Vw-_sIdXXJI/AAAAAAAAD8s/dMAA3xhRS2kzfL045wpEH8ovhAPpXgcmQCKgB/s320/GonzagaEste.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div class="p1">
The imperial eagles belong to the Este coat of arms; the siren is an antique symbol to exalt the gifts of song or to indicate an important woman; at the top there is an Este eagle and at the sides, lions rampant are resting on the Gonzaga crown.</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The booklet is 60 pages and the text is in Italian <b>and English</b>. It can be purchased <a href="http://www.nuovas1.it/e-shop/merletti-e-ricami/passarotti-libro-di-lavorieri/" target="_blank">direct from the publisher, check out their website</a>, they take PayPal. As <a href="http://www.lacis.com/catalog/" target="_blank">Lacis in Berkeley</a>, California is their North American distributor, you can contact them to request a copy. Remember that the book was just released in Italy so it may be a little while before it is available on this side of the ocean.<br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-55662357139424341832016-03-28T10:18:00.001-07:002016-03-28T10:18:54.969-07:00Needlework Challenge - Valtopina 2016<br />
I really like needlework challenges, I think they bring out some great creativity and it is always interesting to see how people interpret a theme differently. This fall, September 2, 3 and 4 to be exact, the <i>Hand Embroidery and Artisan Textile</i> show in <i>Valtopina</i>, Italy (in the Umbrian region) is running a challenge which is open to international entries.<br />
<br />
The theme is <b><i>Embroider Umbria: blades of grass and flowers for women's rights</i></b>. To remember victims of abuse and violence against women, the celebration of the wildflowers of Umbrian meadows and hills. The "thread" of a message from Umbria to express the value of feminine identity, of women's freedom "to be and to do" and to share in the commitment of the defence of their rights.<br />
<br />
Sounds like a great theme, don't you think?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WGV5Ty0Y9SU/VvlaZJ12GiI/AAAAAAAAD7A/hxjXcFN44j0HXiHCd6YRxwGpk16_g4OFQ/s1600/IMG_0094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WGV5Ty0Y9SU/VvlaZJ12GiI/AAAAAAAAD7A/hxjXcFN44j0HXiHCd6YRxwGpk16_g4OFQ/s320/IMG_0094.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Umbrian meadows - photo courtesy of the Scuola di Ricamo Valtopina.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--6Dh0YDdXPg/VvlaYzJwX2I/AAAAAAAAD68/uf64YuhuW3QyQc-7lctMs4TdeBNznO8Pg/s1600/IMG_0092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--6Dh0YDdXPg/VvlaYzJwX2I/AAAAAAAAD68/uf64YuhuW3QyQc-7lctMs4TdeBNznO8Pg/s320/IMG_0092.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Umbrian hills - photo courtesy of the Scuola di Ricamo,Valtopina.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
To get some ideas of which flowers are found in the Umbrian countryside, you can explore some websites like <a href="http://www.castellucciodinorcia.it/flowering-of-castelluccio-di-norcia-la-fiorita/?lang=en" target="_blank">Castelluccio di Norcia</a>, or there is <a href="http://www.lemiepasseggiate.it/fiori-dellappennino/20-elenco-fiori-dellappennino" target="_blank">a list of Italian and Latin names here</a>, or do a Google search for "Apennine wildflowers".<br />
<br />
Entries will be judged on September 4th, 2016 during the 17th edition of the <i>Hand Embroidery and Artisan Textile Show</i> in <i>Valtopina</i>. This is a much anticipated textile show every year and there are workshops and vendors to keep you busy aside from the exhibits. If you get a chance to go, don't miss a trip to the <i><a href="http://www.comune.valtopina.pg.it/museo_ricamo.aspx" target="_blank">Embroidery and Textile Museum</a></i>.<br />
<br />
The prizes for the challenge are pretty fabulous:<br />
1st prize is an all inclusive weekend for two in Umbria,<br />
then, there will be a prize from the <i><a href="http://www.manifatturatessilesotema.it/en/" target="_blank">Manifattura tessile Sotema</a></i> who make great fabrics,<br />
a prize from <i><a href="http://www.graziano.it/EN/" target="_blank">Flli. Graziano</a></i> who make great fabrics too,<br />
a prize from <i><a href="http://www.grigolettofilati.com/" target="_blank">Grigoletto Filati</a></i> who make embroidery threads,<br />
a prize of 30 ct Valtopina needlework linen from <i><a href="http://www.bergamascomerceria.it/" target="_blank">Bergamasco</a></i> which is a fantastic needlework shop,<br />
a prize of local products from the <i>ProLoco Valtopina</i>,<br />
a prize from the <i>Municipality of Valtopina</i>,<br />
an Artistic Craft prize from the artist <i>Giulio Piermatti</i> and participation certificates for all who enter.<br />
<br />
Click on the picture below for the official rules and guidelines for entering the challenge:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zH3S8C96JU4/Vvlk16QU1hI/AAAAAAAAD7Q/c4xgYo3DrJ4i0yLJwSUUV-gSaoVmZsSWw/s1600/IMG_0099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zH3S8C96JU4/Vvlk16QU1hI/AAAAAAAAD7Q/c4xgYo3DrJ4i0yLJwSUUV-gSaoVmZsSWw/s320/IMG_0099.JPG" width="226" /></a></div>
<br />
Or you can send an email to <a href="mailto:ricamovaltopina@libero.it" target="_blank">Maria Mancini</a>, check out the show's <a href="http://www.mostravaltopina.it/" target="_blank">website for photos</a> of previous years' challenges. <b><i>Your entry must be received no later than July 31st, 2016.</i></b><br />
<br />
I look forward to seeing the entries to this years challenge!<br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-82096757785533595342016-02-03T10:02:00.000-08:002016-02-03T10:02:09.685-08:00Embroidery on Tulle - books, books!<br />
Well, an interesting few months have kept me from posting and the stack on my floor of books and other ideas for blog posts has grown into a mountain! While I have not had a moment to post, I have not in the least forgotten you!<br />
<br />
I have posted about <i><a href="http://italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2010/04/ars-panicalensis-embroidery-on-tulle.html" target="_blank">Ars Panicalensis</a></i> before and I want to tell you about the latest developments of <i><a href="http://www.ricamopolicromosutulle-lana-seta.com/" target="_blank">Paola Matteucci</a></i> and her <a href="http://italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2011/11/ars-panicalensis-purses.html" target="_blank">fabulous applications</a> of this beautiful Italian needlework.<br />
<br />
Traditional <i>Ars Panicalensis</i> is a whitework technique embroidering on tulle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dUsiA4adHus/VrI42YFwVBI/AAAAAAAAD5A/8WSRmGdFzkQ/s1600/RicamoTulle-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dUsiA4adHus/VrI42YFwVBI/AAAAAAAAD5A/8WSRmGdFzkQ/s320/RicamoTulle-1.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>
<i><br /></i>
<i>Paola</i> produced a detailed manual in 2013, the cover of which is shown above. It is an extensive step-by-step tome of some 130 pages. While the text is in Italian, the photos are very clear:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EHZswOwoFr4/VrI4_deulUI/AAAAAAAAD5I/0fMKGrfIsnQ/s1600/RicamoTulle-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EHZswOwoFr4/VrI4_deulUI/AAAAAAAAD5I/0fMKGrfIsnQ/s320/RicamoTulle-4.jpg" width="232" /></a></div>
<br />
I have had the good fortune to see <i>Paola's</i> work up close and it is truly breathtaking. I will never forget the bridal veil... I have a kit of hers for a cushion cover waiting for me to find the time and I managed to purchase a scissor case and fob, just to have a piece of this exquisite technique to appreciate at home.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D7NplZg-rzw/VrI5DuOAiFI/AAAAAAAAD5U/vbxgjXzQez0/s1600/RicamoTulle-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D7NplZg-rzw/VrI5DuOAiFI/AAAAAAAAD5U/vbxgjXzQez0/s320/RicamoTulle-5.jpg" width="306" /></a></div>
<br />
While Paola excels at the traditional, she also has an eye to innovation. She has developed works of art embroidering on coloured tulle with silks and wool threads!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9R67YCdRMTo/VrI40meRSAI/AAAAAAAAD5U/A8vUqwHP1J4/s1600/RicamoTulle-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9R67YCdRMTo/VrI40meRSAI/AAAAAAAAD5U/A8vUqwHP1J4/s320/RicamoTulle-2.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>
<br />
Her second book is 40 pages of combinations of Ars Panicalensis, Bandera Embroidery and Crewel work... on black tulle. The effect is so pleasing to the eye! This book concerns itself with the use of wool, specifically the fine wool of the French company <i><a href="http://www.laroutedelalaine.fr/fr/" target="_blank">La Route de la Laine</a></i>, I think we know it as <a href="http://www.hedgehoghandworks.com/catalog/FBRLAUB.php" target="_blank">Fine d'Aubusson</a> here in North America.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uikDKk1yi_w/VrI4_GPVsDI/AAAAAAAAD5U/nwIfJqyLn_M/s1600/RicamoTulle-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uikDKk1yi_w/VrI4_GPVsDI/AAAAAAAAD5U/nwIfJqyLn_M/s320/RicamoTulle-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This time, the text of the book is in Italian and English! The English having been translated by British ex-pat <i>Patricia Girolami</i> who lives in Italy and runs her own embroidery school. She has translated many <i>Punto Antico</i> books for the <i><a href="http://www.edizionipuntoantico.com/en/" target="_blank">Edizioni Punto Antico</a></i>.<br />
<br />
The title of this latest book is <i>"Coloured Wool 1"</i> so I hope this means that there will be a series to come and perhaps even one about her adventures with silk threads on tulle. <i>Paola's</i> talents are inspiring and I look forward to seeing what she does next!<br />
<br />
Both <b>Embroidery on Tulle</b> books are available directly from the author <a href="http://www.paolamatteucciricamo.com/ordini_il_libro_extra_europa.html" target="_blank"><i>Paola Matteucci'</i>s website</a> and she excepts PayPal.<br />
<br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-7343309302412829712015-11-15T00:16:00.000-08:002015-11-15T00:16:12.654-08:00Snowflakes II: Guest Post with Gioja Ralui<br />
Last year <i>Gioja Ralui</i>, author of the books <i><a href="http://italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2014/08/sardinian-knot-stitch-new-book-english.html" target="_blank">Sardinian Knot Stitch</a></i> (in English) and <i><a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2014/07/sardinian-knotted-stitch-new-book.html" target="_blank">Punto Annodato Sardo</a></i> (in Italian) appeared here and elsewhere as a guest to present a <a href="http://italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2014/10/snowflakes-guest-post-gioja-ralui.html" target="_blank">freebie snowflake pattern</a>, this year she goes a step further to present a project of snowflakes! If you would like to read this post in Italian, please go to either blog: <a href="http://ricamoealtro.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">ricamo e... altro</a> or <a href="http://tuttoricamo.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">TuttoRicamo</a>. I turn the blog over to her, so she can tell you all about it:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rLqvxpPEFFQ/VkdjXYMKQJI/AAAAAAAAD2c/qIUB25hXTQU/s1600/Centrino.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rLqvxpPEFFQ/VkdjXYMKQJI/AAAAAAAAD2c/qIUB25hXTQU/s320/Centrino.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Christmas Table Mat</b><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
As was done last year, also for this Christmas 2015 I would like to offer my <i>Sardinian Knot Stitch</i> pattern. It is a table mat on beige Assisi linen embroidered in the classic Christmas color: red.<br />
<br />
As you can see it is a cascade of snowflakes of various sizes, each one different from the other. They are all enclosed in a frame of a simple zig zag with the '<i>gruxittasa</i>' (remember that the 'x' must be read as the French 'j') pattern in each corner and in the middle of each side. [<i>gruxittasa</i> means 'the crosses' in Sardinian] Finally, to complete the project, some drawn-thread work (removing two fabric threads): the simple hem stitch for securing the hem and along the edge, the arches with picots that make up the classic edging of Sardinian Knot Stitch works.<br />
<br />
Information on how to realize the hem with the mitred corners and the simple hemstitch can be found in large quantities in the internet. I limit myself to a couple of suggestions: <br />
<a href="http://www.needlenthread.com/2009/06/tutorial-mitred-corners-on-linen-square.html" target="_blank">mitred corners</a><br />
<a href="http://www.needlenthread.com/2009/02/hemstitch-in-drawn-thread-embroidery.html" target="_blank">simple hemstitch</a><br />
However if these do not seem comprehensive enough, type in a search engine 'tutorial mitred corners' and 'tutorial simple hemstitch' and you will find everything you need.<br />
<div>
<br />
Some of the snowflakes on this embroidered table mat were published in my book <i><a href="http://amzn.com/1500158054" target="_blank">Sardinian Knot Stitch</a></i> and are not repeated here. I would like to remind readers that in it you will find all the instructions for the work, both with regard to the stitch execution and the needle lace edging. Remember too, that the proceeds from sales go to charity. Last year over $2,500.00 US dollars were donated to the <a href="http://www.diocesidiiglesias.it/home_diocesi/in_evidenza/00022874_Grave_emergenza_umanitaria_a_Camp_Garba.html" target="_blank">Catholic Mission of Camp Garba in Kenya</a> allowing kids to to attend school in the area. I wonder if this year you will help me achieve the same result?</div>
<br />
As I mentioned above, for the execution of the table mat, 28ct Assisi linen fabric in beige with Anchor Ritorto Fiorentino no. 12 pearl cotton, colour no. 47 was used. The dimensions of the fabric are: 41 cm x 33.5 cm which includes the 1.5 cm to be folded back on each side to form the hem.<br />
<br />
In the photo below, numbers have been assigned to facilitate the recognition of the snowflakes in relation to the corresponding patterns:<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dRtEY4GXdx8/VkdurZVpI5I/AAAAAAAAD2s/2IoQVRrg09w/s1600/Leggenda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dRtEY4GXdx8/VkdurZVpI5I/AAAAAAAAD2s/2IoQVRrg09w/s320/Leggenda.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Due to space limitations and in order to not go on too long, the patterns indicated with numbers: 1, 2, 3a and 3b are not included here but can be found, respectively, on pages 55, 53 and 56 of the book.<br />
<br />
Below are the patterns of the other previously unpublished snowflakes:<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kJ2ahKzdOuM/Vkdw6Mi3GII/AAAAAAAAD28/J-DSYwAmXdU/s1600/Fiocchi-4-5-6-Meta-2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kJ2ahKzdOuM/Vkdw6Mi3GII/AAAAAAAAD28/J-DSYwAmXdU/s320/Fiocchi-4-5-6-Meta-2015.jpg" width="243" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Snowflakes numbered 4, 5 and 6.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J5eUESvxzOM/Vkdw6SBuVEI/AAAAAAAAD3A/igouyDW6ZXc/s1600/Fiocchi-7-8-Meta-2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J5eUESvxzOM/Vkdw6SBuVEI/AAAAAAAAD3A/igouyDW6ZXc/s320/Fiocchi-7-8-Meta-2015.jpg" width="244" /></a></div>
<br />
Snowflakes numbered 7 and 8.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iz25XuGOcI0/Vkdw6NYhaOI/AAAAAAAAD24/NRpMNUdUri4/s1600/Fiocchi-9-Bordo-Angolo-Meta-2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iz25XuGOcI0/Vkdw6NYhaOI/AAAAAAAAD24/NRpMNUdUri4/s320/Fiocchi-9-Bordo-Angolo-Meta-2015.jpg" width="244" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And finally, snowflake number 9 and the patterns for the frame of zig zag with <i>gruxittasa</i> which is executed 1 cm to the inside of the drawn-thread work hemstitching. </div>
<br />
One last tip: although I realize that each of us has his own method of working: I do the hemstitching first (but the arches I leave until last) because it helps me with the placement of the rest of the embroidery... but it is not written in stone that you must do it this way!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Of course the placement of the snowflakes may be distributed in different ways depending on personal tastes, or the composition may also be reduced with regard to the number of snowflakes themselves. Furthermore they may be used differently: to decorate placemats, for example, or used individually (obviously only in the case of the tiniest ones) to make small Christmas gifts such as bookmarks or Christmas tree ornaments... Projects to achieve all of these suggestions can be found in the book <i><a href="http://amzn.com/1500158054" target="_blank">Sardinian Knot Stitch</a></i>.<br />
<div>
<br />
Happy Stitching!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-14009503975074293762015-11-08T12:49:00.001-08:002015-11-08T12:49:57.347-08:00Crochet Cotton for Needlework<br />
Using <b>Crochet Cotton</b> thread for needlework is something that different types of Italian needlework call for. <b>Crochet Cotton</b> is a twisted mercerized cotton thread. It is not shiny the same as Pearl Cotton but does have a sheen to it. It gives a different effect to the embroidery. There are various weights and I've done some experimenting with it for tassels, using <i>DMC Baroque</i> and <i>Natura</i> but until recently, I've never tried it for embroidery.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fljiN4YfjIY/VfxXKIC5wwI/AAAAAAAADyU/KJFmdmbDXyU/s1600/ArsAesisBorder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="159" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fljiN4YfjIY/VfxXKIC5wwI/AAAAAAAADyU/KJFmdmbDXyU/s320/ArsAesisBorder.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DMC Babylo #10 ecru thread on 38 ct Sotema 20L linen.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Here is a sample of <i><a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2014/08/sardinian-knot-stitch-new-book-english.html" target="_blank">Sardinian Knot Stitch</a></i> done on 18ct fabric with <i>Anchor</i> <b>Crochet Cotton</b> and <i>DMC</i> Pearl Cottons (click on the photo for a closer look):<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wq-obk7LS5w/Vj-odHywqtI/AAAAAAAAD18/H-vMMYTbUGc/s1600/CrochetCotton-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wq-obk7LS5w/Vj-odHywqtI/AAAAAAAAD18/H-vMMYTbUGc/s320/CrochetCotton-1.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
<br />
When telling you about <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2015/09/three-in-one-new-book.html" target="_blank"><i>Giuseppa Federici</i>'s new book here</a>, I mentioned that it called for <b>Crochet Cotton</b> and that in Italy (and other parts of the world) both <i>DMC</i> and <i>Anchor</i> offer a decent colour range in their crochet cottons. Alas they do not offer the same threads in North America and so I set about hunting down some <b>Crochet Cotton</b> in lots of colours.<br />
<br />
A kind friend from Italy sent me some <i>Anchor Freccia</i> #12 which is similar in weight the #10 <b>Crochet Cotton</b> we can find in North America. Then I found some <i>DMC Babylo</i> #10 on a UK website that I have ordered from often for other things. They appear almost identical in thickness. Pretty close to Pearl Cotton #5 but a bit thinner. Please note that I could not try all of <i>DMC's</i> products like <i>Cebelia</i> and <i>Traditions</i> or <i>Coats</i> <i>Aunt Lydia</i>'s because I could not find them locally in colours that I wanted and there were only so many funds I wanted to spend on online ordering for an experiment. The point of my experiment was really to find a #10 <b>Crochet Cotton</b> in the widest range of colours possible. There <i>are</i> other products available in North America that you can try.<br />
<br />
An internet search led me to a website called <i><a href="http://www.hhtatting.com/index.cfm" target="_blank">Handy Hands</a></i> which sells a line of various weights and colours of 100% Egyptian cotton cordonnet thread called <i><a href="http://www.hhtatting.com/lizbeth-thread.cfm" target="_blank">Lizbeth</a></i>. It comes in 102 solid colours, 87 variegated colours and 10 colours which are a mix of three different colours twisted together. <i>Handy Hands</i> is based out of Paxton, Illinois, though they do not have a bricks and mortar storefront.<br />
<br />
Now, <i>Anchor</i> or <i>DMC</i> #10 <b>Crochet Cotton</b> which is what I was looking to match, is made of 3 threads twisted together. <i>Lizbeth</i> thread is made of 6 threads twisted together so obviously the look of the <i>Lizbeth</i> thread is a bit different but I decided to see if it would be a suitable substitution.<br />
<br />
I wrote and asked them if they could help me match some samples of <i>Anchor</i> and <i>DMC</i> colours that I had gotten from Italy. They answered right away and gave me some matches but it's difficult to match from photos so in the end, I mailed them my thread samples because there just isn't anything better than having something in your hand when you're trying to match colours!<br />
<br />
I have to say, <i>Handy Hands'</i> customer service is excellent. They must have looked up the colours as soon as my samples arrived because, allowing for cross-border mailing, it was no time at all before I received colour-matches for all the colours I asked about. These colours are for a project which I will tell you about in a different post.<br />
<br />
The <i>Lizbeth</i> #10 thread is the same thickness as my <i>Anchor</i> and <i>DMC</i> threads but because it is made up of three sets of 2 threads twisted together, it's a little like stitching with a cord instead of a thread.<br />
I did three lines of stitches: stem stitch, chain stitch and Palestrina Knot stitch. The top or first line of each set is the <i>Anchor Freccia</i> and the other is the <i>Lizbeth</i>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-enQ7xE_DPig/Vj-qkxoR_pI/AAAAAAAAD2I/Dlh7R8amOZw/s1600/CrochetCotton-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-enQ7xE_DPig/Vj-qkxoR_pI/AAAAAAAAD2I/Dlh7R8amOZw/s320/CrochetCotton-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anchor Freccia #12 and Lizbeth #10 on Zweigart 36 ct Edinburgh linen.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There is a bit of difference in sheen and of course the twist, but overall, I'd say it's an excellent substitute! I <i><b>love</b></i> the way the thread sits up on the fabric for a very textural embroidery. I'm thinking <i><a href="http://italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2010/09/palestrina-embroidery.html" target="_blank">Palestrina Embroidery</a></i>, <i><a href="http://italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2010/11/parma-embroidery.html" target="_blank">Parma Embroidery</a></i>, <i><a href="http://italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2013/08/delicious-umbrian-embroidery.html" target="_blank">Umbrian Embroidery</a></i>, even traditional embroidery when you want to create a more rustic, raised effect.<br />
<br />
<i>Lizbeth</i> thread is distributed worldwide, they have a list of distributors online for a store near you or you can <a href="http://www.hhtatting.com/search.cfm" target="_blank">order directly from their website</a>. Signing up for their newsletter before December 31, 2015 gets you free shipping in the US.<br />
<br /><i>Much thanks to <b>Barbara</b> at Handy Hands for her infinite patience, valuable insight and quick, efficient service!</i><br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-62985149942123606612015-10-23T14:35:00.000-07:002015-10-24T00:49:20.191-07:00Italian Needlework Books easily available outside Italy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uYB3g8rounY/ViqkSBh44ZI/AAAAAAAAD04/8XugS8E2bMs/s1600/Libri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uYB3g8rounY/ViqkSBh44ZI/AAAAAAAAD04/8XugS8E2bMs/s320/Libri.jpg" width="263" /></a></div>
<br />
One of the most frequent requests I get is: "where can I buy these books in English?" Now, I've come to understand that this does not necessarily mean that readers are asking that the texts be in English, though most of the time that <b><i><u>is</u></i></b> what they are asking, but they also want to buy them from <i>websites</i> in English because they are not comfortable with the uncertainty of online translators.<br />
<br />
I do not get any compensation for mentioning books here, even the ones I translated (just to get that out of the way). I try to tell you about the things that <u>I know</u> are available and how <u>I know</u> how to get them. In the past I haven't recommended resellers as a rule because these books are already marked up as the resellers have had to cover their own costs in receiving the books from Italy. When possible, I have mentioned direct sources so you get the lowest cost which might mean a bit more work to make the purchase.<br />
<br />
Please know that when I write a book review, I always say what languages the text is in. If I write "text in Italian" that means that an English language version does. not. exist. I'm sorry that I cannot translate the books for you. I would love it if all of them were in English text too!<br />
<br />
In the past few years the <a href="http://www.nuovas1.it/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=92&Itemid=595" target="_blank">Lace and Embroidery line</a> of books from <i>Nuova S1</i> in <i>Bologna</i> has been able to secure distribution in a few places outside Italy: Amazon's various websites and affiliates, <a href="http://www.barbara-fay.de/" target="_blank">Barbara Fay</a> in Germany, <a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/" target="_blank">Book Depository</a> in the U.K., <a href="http://www.lacis.com/" target="_blank">Lacis</a> in the US. and <a href="http://www.ryunanbros.com/" target="_blank">Ryunan Bros</a> in Japan. (Please note that Nuova S1 publishes other types of books so not everything that shows up in a search of their name will be a book about embroidery.)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://booksforyou.ca/" target="_blank">Books for you</a> in Canada sells a selection of Italian needlework books, though I did not see any Nuova S1 books, there were others which I've reviewed here.<br />
<br />
I found searching Book Depository's website that there were a number of titles available and at reduced cost, plus they ship free worldwide. I did various searches including by publisher, by author's name, by technique. Use my <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/p/my-italian-needlework-library.html" target="_blank">Italian Needlework Library</a> page as a reference for many titles and authors but remember that I don't have everything and some stuff will be out of print.<br />
<br />
There are some clues to find the information you want. At Book Depository I couldn't get any of Nuova S1's books to come up under a general search of the publisher's name but searching an author's name gave me results:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vD2vVEbMF70/ViqQNzbi-zI/AAAAAAAAD0g/9isdoBK86wo/s1600/BookDepository.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vD2vVEbMF70/ViqQNzbi-zI/AAAAAAAAD0g/9isdoBK86wo/s320/BookDepository.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Now, here the languages are listed as "multiple languages" but in the title it says: "inglese" which means "English".<br />
<br />
Amazon brings up all of Nuova S1's books by doing a search of their name which is handy, it gives you everything together without having to search individual author's names but it also brings up non-needlework books too. A search with the word "ricamo" (Italian for embroidery) brought up all kinds Italian books, not only the Nuova S1 ones, so be imaginative in your search terminology.<br />
<br />
One final word about resellers: while Amazon and Book Depository are well known and honourable, it is helpful to ask if the book is actually in stock before approving payment when dealing with other, smaller online resellers. Many wait for an order to come in before searching out the book themselves and your wait time can be frustrating. Remember that when not buying direct from the source, you are essentially hiring someone to find the book for you.<br />
<br />
I hope this helps you with your holiday shopping!<br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-26362355184600039092015-10-14T11:49:00.000-07:002015-10-14T11:49:38.230-07:00Macramè from Chiavari<br />
Last April when I was in <i>Bologna</i>, I got to attend a trade fair called <a href="https://www.ilmondocreativo.it/" target="_blank">Mondo Creativo</a> [Creative World]. There was some embroidery and lace, lots of quilting and beading, decoupage, ceramics, jewellery making, felting, knitting, crochet, cake decorating and all kinds of do-it-yourself crafts that you'd expect at a fair of this kind. You can watch some <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfnLUwH_hps" target="_blank">video coverage of it here</a>.<br />
<br />
It was quite crowded and I walked around and around, going up and down the aisles trying to take it all in. I was there for a few hours and it was getting close to the end of the day when I reached the farthest corner of the vast space and discovered a booth full of the most wondrous <b>Macramè</b>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eIXw0wpxlIE/Vh6LH6UCtCI/AAAAAAAADzM/mbYYPmVf7rI/s1600/MacrameChiavari-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eIXw0wpxlIE/Vh6LH6UCtCI/AAAAAAAADzM/mbYYPmVf7rI/s320/MacrameChiavari-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I've told you in previous posts about the <b><a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2011/04/macrame-fringes.html" target="_blank">Macramè</a></b> of Italy and how it's not anything like what North Americans usually think of. What I saw in this booth would take your breath away.<br />
<br />
The lady demonstrating was <i>Luciana Brescia</i> and I got to talk to her for a bit. She told me about the type of <b>Macramè</b> she was doing which is a style local to the area where she lives, it is called <i>Chiavari</i>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/macramediluciana" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k7zUU9P1qF0/Vh6OTA_SdoI/AAAAAAAADzY/WK-CiGYLBhM/s320/LucianaBrescia.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Chiavari</i> is a small town a bit to the south of <i>Genoa</i> on the north-western coast of Italy. It is said that <b>Macramè</b> has been produced in the area for more than 700 years. It is traditionally used to ornament household and ecclesiastical linens and <i>Luciana</i> showed me the linen she uses that is locally woven especially for embellishment in macramè.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-21odIIt86RY/Vh6ZyusfpSI/AAAAAAAADzo/ZIT9p7oNpg4/s1600/MacrameChiavari-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-21odIIt86RY/Vh6ZyusfpSI/AAAAAAAADzo/ZIT9p7oNpg4/s320/MacrameChiavari-2.jpg" width="183" /></a></div>
<br />
I couldn't resist getting a guest towel made of the special linen, worked in <b>Chiavari Macramè</b> by <i>Luciana</i> in a typical pattern called <i>Fieschi</i>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s06Dn0Iyo60/Vh6ZzTyKn4I/AAAAAAAADz0/oB8_6UiREy4/s1600/MacrameChiavari-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s06Dn0Iyo60/Vh6ZzTyKn4I/AAAAAAAADz0/oB8_6UiREy4/s320/MacrameChiavari-3.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
The linen is called: <i>grana di riso</i> [grain of rice] and is handwoven by the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/tessiturademartini" target="_blank"><i>deMartini</i> family</a> in nearby <i>Lorsica</i>.<br />
<br />
<i>Luciana</i> has been perfecting this art for nearly 40 years. She is very proud to have made a towel that was presented to Pope John Paul II in 1998 when he visited the historic deMartini weaving studio in <i>Lorsica</i>.<br />
<br />
<i>Luciana</i> teaches courses in her hometown and exhibits at the various trade shows around Italy. While she likes to make traditional items, she also makes more modern applications such as earrings, brooches, bookmarks and decorations. Her table of goods kept me enthralled for quite awhile and it was very difficult to make a choice for my purchase.<br />
<br />
I also picked up a kit with instructions to make a flower assembled of individual petals and <i>Luciana</i> told me to go to a booth at the show where I would find some waxed cotton thread that would be good for me to practise with. I'll let you know how it goes!<br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-41711079028736592492015-09-18T13:00:00.000-07:002015-09-18T13:00:32.161-07:00Three in One - new book!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B5aYjNeuXnA/VfxXGX8IAaI/AAAAAAAADx8/terK0zpXARQ/s1600/ArsAesis2Copertina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B5aYjNeuXnA/VfxXGX8IAaI/AAAAAAAADx8/terK0zpXARQ/s320/ArsAesis2Copertina.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
<br />
The latest book from <i><a href="http://www.giusyfederici.altervista.org/" target="_blank">Giuseppa Federici</a></i> revisits three techniques: <b><a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2013/05/ars-aesis-and-buratto-sfilato-new-book.html" target="_blank">Ars Aesis</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2011/10/catherine-demedici-embroidery-article.html" target="_blank">Catherine de'Medici Embroidery</a></b> and <b>Buratto drawn-thread work</b>.<br />
<br />
This volume is 64 pages beginning with a little bit of history on <i>Catherine de'Medici Embroidery</i>, then some background on <i>Buratto drawn-thread work</i> and some instructions on how to do it and the things you'll need in general followed by a small ornament project which is used to explain how to execute the withdrawn area and fill it with a motif done in the <i>linen stitch</i>. There are a good 7 pages of step-by-step photos so if you don't speak Italian, you'll still get it. Ornament embellishment and assembly finish this section.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_ski9woQDtk/VfxXGe8qTTI/AAAAAAAADyM/oJp4T0Lcxis/s1600/ArsAesis2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_ski9woQDtk/VfxXGe8qTTI/AAAAAAAADyM/oJp4T0Lcxis/s320/ArsAesis2-1.jpg" width="237" /></a></div>
<br />
There are then seven projects combining <i>Catherine de'Medici</i> and <i>Buratto drawn-thread work</i> - some lovely border treatments here as well. After that are several pages of charted patterns for both techniques to be used with your own imagination to create other lovely things with the project of a small clasped purse to get you going.<br />
<br />
Commercial <i>Buratto</i> fabric is loosely woven evenweave linen with about 16-18 threads per inch so withdrawing threads to create a netted ground lends itself beautifully to larger design areas which are completed relatively quickly. It goes fabulously with <i>Catherine de'Medici Embroidery</i> creating delights of light and dark areas of design.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sblaqBu5a7A/VfxXGLPQ3zI/AAAAAAAADyE/HRVRKgQwpi0/s1600/ArsAesis2-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sblaqBu5a7A/VfxXGLPQ3zI/AAAAAAAADyE/HRVRKgQwpi0/s320/ArsAesis2-2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
The final section is on <i>Ars Aesis</i> and here you'll find several pattern designs, projects, borders and edgings though you'll need <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2013/05/ars-aesis-and-buratto-sfilato-new-book.html" target="_blank">her first book</a> for detailed instructions on how to execute some of the needle lace edgings. Just so I've said it, the text is all in Italian.<br />
<br />
Now, you <i><b>know</b></i> how I love textured embroidery! I just had to get out my needle and thread to try one of the borders which I had previously admired in the first book:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fljiN4YfjIY/VfxXKIC5wwI/AAAAAAAADyU/KJFmdmbDXyU/s1600/ArsAesisBorder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="159" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fljiN4YfjIY/VfxXKIC5wwI/AAAAAAAADyU/KJFmdmbDXyU/s320/ArsAesisBorder.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Ars Aesis</i> uses no. 10 crochet cotton for thread which provides a different finish from pearl cotton. In Europe, both DMC and Anchor market quite a few colours in this type of thread (<i>DMC Babylo no. 10</i> and <i>Anchor Freccia no. 12</i>) however I'm having some difficulty sourcing much on this side of the pond.<br />
<br />
If you know anywhere in North America which sells <i>DMC Babylo no. 10</i> or <i>Anchor Freccia no. 12</i> in anything other than white and ecru, would you leave a comment below?<br />
<br />In Europe you can purchase this book by bank transfer <a href="mailto:federici.giu@libero.it" target="_blank">directly from the author herself</a>. <div>
<a href="http://www.tombolodisegni.it/LIBRI%20ASSISI.htm" target="_blank">Tombolo Disegni</a> has it for those of us not in Europe, it can be found in the section of books with <i>Catherine de'Medici Embroidery</i>.<div>
<br /><br /></div>
</div>
Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-68461837675937519252015-09-15T09:55:00.001-07:002015-09-15T09:55:42.251-07:00Ferragamo and the needle lace of Tavarnelle <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5N4HPa0iwpU/VfW4lvvl8xI/AAAAAAAADwM/o8C5zctEAlE/s1600/BSP-Shoes-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5N4HPa0iwpU/VfW4lvvl8xI/AAAAAAAADwM/o8C5zctEAlE/s320/BSP-Shoes-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From a private collection in Florence, since donated to the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The following is an English version of my latest column in the Italian needlework magazine <i><a href="http://www.giulianaricama.com/" target="_blank">Giuliana Ricama</a> </i>issue no. 6. A couple of things to note: the <i><a href="http://www.ferragamo.com/museo/en/usa/discover/shoe_collection/materials" target="_blank">Salvatore Ferragamo Museo</a></i> in <i>Florence</i> gave me photos to include in the publication but I did not ask for permission to publish them here, so I do not include them with this translation. If you want to see them, obviously if you are in Italy you can get the magazine or go to the museum but you can also <a href="http://www.ferragamo.com/museo/en/usa/discover/shoe_collection/materials" target="_blank">check out their website</a> or you can explore the <a href="http://www.moda.san.beniculturali.it/wordpress/?page_id=85" target="_blank">20th century archives</a> of the <i>Ministry of Goods and Cultural Activities</i> website.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_NRHEYYHzvU/VfW4ll7gEKI/AAAAAAAADwY/TI9LjV-z380/s1600/BSP-Shoes-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_NRHEYYHzvU/VfW4ll7gEKI/AAAAAAAADwY/TI9LjV-z380/s320/BSP-Shoes-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From a private collection in Florence, since donated to the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><br /></i>
<i>“There is no limit to beauty, no saturation point in design, no end to the materials a shoemaker may use to decorate his creations so that every woman may be shod like a princess and a princess may be shod like a fairy queen.”</i> -- Shoemaker of Dreams. The Autobiography of Salvatore Ferragamo, London 1957, Italian edition 1971, edited by S. Ricci.<br />
<br />
At the end of the 1920s <i>Salvatore Ferragamo</i> (1898-1960), known Italian fashion designer and founder of the fashion house of the same name, decided he wanted to use needle lace on a few models of his shoes. The nearby small towns of <b>Tavarnelle</b>, <i>Mercatale </i>and<i> Greve</i>, located between <i>Florence</i> and <i>Siena</i>, were centres of lace production in those days. Several models were created using the work done by local embroiderers in their own homes. <b>Tavarnelle</b> lace was used by Ferragamo again in the 1930s and 1950s and his big innovation was the use of colour in the needle lace. Some shoe models were called the <i>Anna, Carina, Iride, Merletto </i>and<i> Sofia</i>. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ferragamo.com/museo/en/usa/discover/shoe_collection/materials" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tBII5ft6cX4/VfXAsJtISnI/AAAAAAAADxA/capJXzKGL4Q/s320/Ferragamolavorazione_3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ferragamo shoe model from 1930-1932.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Thanks to Mr. Ferragamo, the lacemakers of <b>Tavarnelle</b> embroidered for the most famous women of the day like Sophia Loren, Anna Magnani, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Elisabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn and many more.<br />
<br />
In the archives of the <i><a href="http://www.ferragamo.com/museo/en/usa/" target="_blank">Salvatore Ferragamo Museum</a></i> in Via Tornabuoni, <i>Florence</i> are models of shoes and sandals decorated with the lace of <b>Tavarnelle</b> but unfortunately nothing is displayed in the museum's permanent exhibition. You can however write to the museum and make an appointment to study them.<br />
<br />
In 1906 a nun named <i>Arcangela Banchelli</i> arrived in <i>Greve in Chianti</i> and, being acquainted with the technique of needle lace, taught it to the students of the embroidery school which was one of the activities cared for by the <i>Order of the Servants of Our Lady of Sorrows</i>.<br />
<br />
Over time, the fame of this lace arrived in <i>Florence</i> and very soon it was popular with the companies who created trousseaux. The first commissions came from them but soon commissions were also arriving from private individuals. At one time every girl in the area had tablecloths, curtains and other household linen items in their trousseaux decorated with the lace of <b>Tavarnelle</b>. In the beginning the lace was quite complex but over time, due to the high commercial demand, it became more simplified in order to reduce production time.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XEqVaAZckrs/VfXJGEb4StI/AAAAAAAADxQ/1skg9wucsj0/s1600/PuntoTavarnelle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XEqVaAZckrs/VfXJGEb4StI/AAAAAAAADxQ/1skg9wucsj0/s320/PuntoTavarnelle.jpg" width="169" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two doilies of Tavarnelle lace from my collection.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Tavarnelle</b> lace derives from Venetian needle lace but has a technical preparation more similar to <i><a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2010/03/aemilia-ars-needle-lace-from-bologna.html" target="_blank">Aemilia Ars</a></i> needle lace from <i>Bologna</i>. The design is drawn on wax paper which is placed on top of 5-6 layers of butcher paper and all layers are then basted together around the outer edge. Then support stitches are added to aid in the working of the lace. Typical motifs worked are geometric shapes, flowers and leaves, small animals, religious symbols, initials and the figures of a man and woman. After the work is finished, the support stitches are cut on the back side and the lace is removed from the support.<br />
<br />
About five years ago a lady named <i>Carla Cantoni</i> from <i>San Casciano Val di Pesa</i> decided to recreate an old design of a Ferragamo shoe with <b>Tavarnelle</b> lace for her own personal use:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FC13Ozn45mk/VfW6pPeYJzI/AAAAAAAADw0/kUWnUgqUM_I/s1600/CC-Shoes-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FC13Ozn45mk/VfW6pPeYJzI/AAAAAAAADw0/kUWnUgqUM_I/s320/CC-Shoes-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EycNofATA9E/VfW6msus3uI/AAAAAAAADwg/LCuVcw7dopQ/s1600/CC-Shoes-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EycNofATA9E/VfW6msus3uI/AAAAAAAADwg/LCuVcw7dopQ/s320/CC-Shoes-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Created for private use by Carla Cantoni, San Casciano Val di Pesa.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
These shoes were created using Ritorto Fiorentino pearl cotton no. 12 and took approximately 90-100 hours to create the lace. Aren't they lovely?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-keTJJzntxh8/VfXQF-UR0YI/AAAAAAAADxg/E6EwDRAdvAY/s1600/PuntoTavarnelleCopertina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-keTJJzntxh8/VfXQF-UR0YI/AAAAAAAADxg/E6EwDRAdvAY/s320/PuntoTavarnelleCopertina.jpg" width="227" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In 2002 <i>Ebe Ciampalini Balestri</i> published a small volume (in Italian) on this technique called: <i>Il "Punto Tavarnelle", e dintorni...</i> It is still available direct from the <i>Pro Loco di Tavarnelle</i> tel: 055 8077832.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><i>Thank you very much to <a href="http://lagriccia.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Blandina</a> for the use of her photos of her mother's shoes which she donated to the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum and to Carla for the photos of the lovely shoes that she made for herself.</i></b><br />
<br /></div>
Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-15914923920309026812015-09-03T08:47:00.001-07:002015-09-03T08:47:28.730-07:00Sardinian Knot Stitch in Inspirations Magazine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.inspirationsmagazine.com.au/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QDE6WDCTbgI/VedPAzQnfKI/AAAAAAAADvc/0Q9GsftKuEQ/s320/Inspirations_edition87_product.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The new edition (#87) of <b><a href="https://www.inspirationsmagazine.com.au/" target="_blank">Inspirations</a></b> magazine is out and nestled amongst all the lovely projects you'll find a book weight project done in <i><a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2010/11/punte-nu-sardinian-knotted-stitch.html" target="_blank">Punt'e nù embroidery</a></i> from <i>Teulada</i>, Italy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jb9k09fMhlM/VedRFmDkUEI/AAAAAAAADvo/UQIgyeoM1II/s1600/Inspirations87Blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jb9k09fMhlM/VedRFmDkUEI/AAAAAAAADvo/UQIgyeoM1II/s320/Inspirations87Blue.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
<br />
While a book weight is a break from traditional use for this embroidery, the pattern is authentic and features a pair of cockerels back-to-back with an almond motif between them. The pattern also features the pomegranate motif and the teeth border.<br />
<br />
The book weight is also double-sided, done in the reverse colours on the other side:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FuXbO5ILmYY/VedSqmdfgnI/AAAAAAAADv0/b-WwWbA2FQk/s1600/Inspirations87White.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FuXbO5ILmYY/VedSqmdfgnI/AAAAAAAADv0/b-WwWbA2FQk/s320/Inspirations87White.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
<br />
You can use a book weight to keep your pattern books open when stitching or to keep your embroidery frame on a table while you work on an area that hangs out over the edge.<br />
<br />
They make great gifts and are a nice size for experiencing a small sample of <i>Punt'e nù embroidery</i>!<br />
<br />
Also in this issue of <i>Inspirations</i> is a lovely review of the English version of the book <b><a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2014/08/sardinian-knot-stitch-new-book-english.html" target="_blank">Sardinian Knot Stitch</a></b>. This book is also <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2014/07/sardinian-knotted-stitch-new-book.html" target="_blank">available in an Italian version</a>. Both books are available through Amazon.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Thank you </i>Inspirations<i> for doing such a beautiful layout for this little project!</i></b><br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-44322617561875151102015-08-25T12:38:00.000-07:002015-08-25T12:38:25.197-07:00Punto Antico 20th Anniversary and a new book<br />
The <i><a href="http://www.edizionipuntoantico.com/en/" target="_blank">Associazione Il Punto Antico</a> </i>is celebrating their 20th anniversary this year and commemorate it with a new book (in English and Italian!) of projects on this lovely needlework technique.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.edizionipuntoantico.com/en/lottavo-libro-del-punto-antico/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JSuPTwos70A/VdyzALZFBxI/AAAAAAAADt8/ellIbLwCpqM/s320/Cop-8%25C2%25B0-50.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
<br />
From the introduction:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Twenty years of passion: 1995-2015. In this book you will find the latest work and designs, some simple, others more complex, with in-depth explanations for their realization and all the designs charted. The embroidery is coloured and the worked articles are cheerful, adapted for young houses, a little informal... You will also find some photos from our early exhibitions, a testimony of the route which we took.<br />Twenty years of research, of study, of elaboration and the teaching of Italian Openwork are an important goal, at which I never thought to arrive. It is thanks to my students, to their affection, and to their friendship that these years have flown by and I would like, on this occasion, to embrace everyone.<br />---Bruna Gubbini</blockquote>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MDJwxL0F6GA/VdzC-vo5xtI/AAAAAAAADuQ/TGss7wX5Mqg/s1600/PAGreenSalmon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MDJwxL0F6GA/VdzC-vo5xtI/AAAAAAAADuQ/TGss7wX5Mqg/s320/PAGreenSalmon.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The book proposes 11 projects: a lampshade, table sets, curtains, runners, a cushion, towels; there are 16 different embroidery stitches described; lots of large colour photos to show off this latest batch of tasteful, very modern designs.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TOpYiQI4fgc/VdzDBGnifMI/AAAAAAAADuo/-_OCHP5l5vo/s1600/PARunner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TOpYiQI4fgc/VdzDBGnifMI/AAAAAAAADuo/-_OCHP5l5vo/s320/PARunner.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It has been interesting to see the evolution of <i>Signora Gubbini</i>'s interpretations of this technique over the years and I must confess that I have all of her books. I find her immensely good at colour combinations and designs which are tasteful and refined while at the same time modern and cheerful. And while I personally love traditional designs and works, I can seriously consider <i>Signora Gubbini</i>'s latest designs for gifts for the younger people in my life. That way I can have the best of both worlds: the joy of stitching the project and then that of delighting a friend or family member with a tasteful gift.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XQghmsd2LFM/VdzC-FDICzI/AAAAAAAADuU/hqyFqTGEaZo/s1600/PAPolkaDots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XQghmsd2LFM/VdzC-FDICzI/AAAAAAAADuU/hqyFqTGEaZo/s320/PAPolkaDots.jpg" width="271" /></a></div>
<br />
The English translation is done by <i>Patricia Girolami</i>, a British embroiderer who now lives in Italy for some years who is well acquainted with this needlework.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VacTE-IVDX8/VdzC_OUEl_I/AAAAAAAADug/yLDYQ89dmYI/s1600/PAOrange.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VacTE-IVDX8/VdzC_OUEl_I/AAAAAAAADug/yLDYQ89dmYI/s320/PAOrange.jpg" width="129" /></a></div>
<br />
These designs are not traditional <i><a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2010/04/punto-antico-antique-stitch.html" target="_blank">Punto Antico</a></i> patterns in the historical sense and they use many stitches from other embroidery techniques not necessarily associated traditionally with <i>Punto Antico</i> so if you are looking to approach this technique from a strictly traditional point of view, I suggest you <a href="http://www.edizionipuntoantico.com/en/il-punto-antico/" target="_blank">start with their first book</a>.<br />
<br />
You can purchase this or any of the many other books that the <i>Associazione Il Punto Antico</i> has produced through their website: <a href="http://www.edizionipuntoantico.com/">http://www.edizionipuntoantico.com/</a><br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-24876367771227932362015-08-23T14:37:00.000-07:002015-08-23T14:37:02.581-07:00Knots and Tassels and Maria Rita Faleri<br />
The other day a beautiful photo meant for someone else came across my newsfeed which sparked a revisit for me to the Turk's Head Knot and tassels. For me its not the bright and shiny things that distract me, its the textile textural things... and <i>Deruta</i> beads...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q5Rc4FxjE_c/Vc_h4hwDu7I/AAAAAAAADsc/o9kF_8uBS9c/s1600/DerutaTurksHeadTassel-MRF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q5Rc4FxjE_c/Vc_h4hwDu7I/AAAAAAAADsc/o9kF_8uBS9c/s320/DerutaTurksHeadTassel-MRF.jpg" width="187" /></a></div>
<br />
Exceptional isn't it? It's creator is <b>Maria Rita Faleri</b> and she lives in <i>Fermo</i> in the <i>Marche</i> region of Italy which is located near the eastern coastline, pretty much in the middle of Italy: a little north of <i>Rome</i>, a little south of <i>Florence</i>.<br />
<br />
Now, I knew a little bit about her and we've corresponded a couple of times about other things over the years and I told you about her <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2010/11/new-book-on-italian-tassels.html" target="_blank">wonderful Tassel book here</a>. We started chatting about the tassel above and then another...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BQ1xP_r67hs/Vc_h4Bi9edI/AAAAAAAADsY/6Nr8SlB0NYs/s1600/GreyTurksHeadTassel-MRF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BQ1xP_r67hs/Vc_h4Bi9edI/AAAAAAAADsY/6Nr8SlB0NYs/s320/GreyTurksHeadTassel-MRF.jpg" width="281" /></a></div>
<br />
and another...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I0F951JiuKg/Vc_h4RVOagI/AAAAAAAADsU/AdUtH0xzeXg/s1600/BlueTurksHeadTassel-MRF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I0F951JiuKg/Vc_h4RVOagI/AAAAAAAADsU/AdUtH0xzeXg/s320/BlueTurksHeadTassel-MRF.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
<br />
I mentioned that I had abandoned the Turk's Head knot which is what those little knots are and she helped me discover where I had gone wrong. I love the internet. She was nearly 9000 kilometres away and 9 hours ahead in time difference but within a few quick comments of a chat, she had made the lightbulb go on in my head.<br />
<br />
There is absolutely nothing wrong with the instructions in her book, it was me that missed an important step. Looking at them now, they make perfect sense.<br />
<br />
We started to chat about other things. <b>Maria Rita</b> is part of a cultural association in <i>Fermo</i> called <i>Il Filo Che Conta</i> (a little play on words: <i>the thread that counts</i>) where she teaches (among other techniques) <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2013/07/catherine-demedici-embroidery-new-book.html" target="_blank"><i>Catherine de' Medici embroidery</i></a> and knotted tassels. She edited the book on <i>Catherine de' Medici embroidery</i> that you'll find when <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2013/07/catherine-demedici-embroidery-new-book.html" target="_blank">you follow this link</a>. She also wrote a book on marking stitches called <i><a href="http://www.casacenina.com/il-filo-che-conta/punti-di-marca.html" target="_blank">Punti di Marca</a></i> a few years ago.<br />
<br />
<b>Maria Rita</b> told me that she will have a booth at the <a href="http://autunno.abilmente.org/en" target="_blank"><i>Abilmente</i> trade show in <i>Vicenza</i></a>, Italy this October. It's one of the fairs that I'd love to go to one day, I really need to plan to be in Italy one autumn. Her booth is under her association's name: <i>Il Filo Che Conta</i> and you can find it in the <i>Embroidery Salon</i> area. She will have her books and materials for <i>Catherine de' Medici embroidery</i>, <i>Bobbin Lacemaking</i> and of course <i>Tassels</i>! <b>Maria Rita</b> will be there for demonstrations and she has made new kits for the three tassels you see above plus this one:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VrTpFCP6b80/Vdn-ak27xjI/AAAAAAAADto/65J14InfCXE/s1600/LongTurksHeadTassel-MRF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VrTpFCP6b80/Vdn-ak27xjI/AAAAAAAADto/65J14InfCXE/s320/LongTurksHeadTassel-MRF.jpg" width="230" /></a></div>
<br />
And also this adorable little bunch of grapes:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QW_JFZB21n4/Vc_xGFyPhjI/AAAAAAAADtE/7dl9i_-JfdM/s1600/NappaGrappolaUva-MRF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QW_JFZB21n4/Vc_xGFyPhjI/AAAAAAAADtE/7dl9i_-JfdM/s320/NappaGrappolaUva-MRF.jpg" width="179" /></a></div>
<br />
Inside the kits are the instructions, needle and threads plus two sizes of tiny wooden sticks which help in the execution of the knots.<i> I want them all!</i> <b>Maria Rita</b> tells me that this fair <i>Abilmente</i> is the only one she exhibits at and what she earns during the show helps keep her cultural association afloat.<br />
<br />
Here is a report from a previous <a href="http://www.hobbydonna.it/finestra/recensioni-fiere/recensione-fiera-abilmente-ottobre-2012-1-parte/menu-id-336.html" target="_blank"><i>Abilmente</i> show in 2012</a> where you can see some of <b>Maria Rita</b>'s beautiful tassels displayed absolutely marvellously:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hobbydonna.it/finestra/recensioni-fiere/recensione-fiera-abilmente-ottobre-2012-1-parte/menu-id-336.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9NOSXnxC3Y/Vc_rhoJ0G6I/AAAAAAAADs0/ZirPFJU96aw/s320/abilmente10-2012040.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo copyright <a href="http://www.hobbydonna.it/menu-id-135.html?task=view" target="_blank">Gabriela Trionfi</a> of <a href="http://www.hobbydonna.it/" target="_blank">Hobbydonna.it</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
If you are in Italy and go to <i>Abilmente</i>, please leave a comment below and tell us how it was. Drop by the <i>Il Filo Che Conta</i> booth and say hello to <b>Maria Rita</b> for me...<br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-43803350374145290162015-08-02T15:06:00.005-07:002015-08-02T15:12:38.192-07:00Reproduction research - Tassel<br />
For a few years I have been looking on and off for some idea of what kind of knots make up the tassels on my vintage <i><a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2010/09/romeyne-robert-and-umbrian-embroidery.html">Punto Umbro</a></i> cushion that <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2013/08/delicious-umbrian-embroidery.html">I talked about here</a>.<br />
<br />
The tassel is made up of a needle lace covered head with 20 little knots covering the top part and five legs which each have 18 of the same little knots on them.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CWBVpOyWPac/UgfTSvgc2XI/AAAAAAAADC0/mLg7Mq7a6xQ/s1600/UmbroCuscino-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CWBVpOyWPac/UgfTSvgc2XI/AAAAAAAADC0/mLg7Mq7a6xQ/s320/UmbroCuscino-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I've been to thread stores in Italy and asked lots of people. Everyone who had an idea, I tried out with no real success. Always close but not exact.<br />
<br />
Recently while looking up something else (as usually happens with research) I stumbled across a photo of something pretty close to my tassel in <i>Rosalba Pepi</i> & <i>Maria Rita Faleri</i>'s lovely <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2010/11/new-book-on-italian-tassels.html">book on Tassels</a>. Who knows why I didn't notice it before.<br />
<br />
Anyway, I started looking seriously through knot books and online.<br />
<br />
I made a few different types of knots in paracord first...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wdGDUnvsP0U/Vb6PO4pWq0I/AAAAAAAADrE/_8C-IW0jslU/s1600/TasselSamplesParacord.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wdGDUnvsP0U/Vb6PO4pWq0I/AAAAAAAADrE/_8C-IW0jslU/s320/TasselSamplesParacord.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Then a few in cotone povero cotton yarn...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-96sc4kwThnk/Vb6OgaIy-sI/AAAAAAAADq8/WJ8c-SSd5RY/s1600/TasselSamples.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-96sc4kwThnk/Vb6OgaIy-sI/AAAAAAAADq8/WJ8c-SSd5RY/s320/TasselSamples.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I like the Turk's Head knot but it was a bit too round and I also liked the Monkey Fist Knot but it didn't have enough facets.<br />
<br />
This is a close up of the head of my tassel with all it's little knots:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GjJvxni4ZNE/Vb6NVsy1chI/AAAAAAAADq0/IM7jXSa2rUg/s1600/TasselHeadPUmbro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GjJvxni4ZNE/Vb6NVsy1chI/AAAAAAAADq0/IM7jXSa2rUg/s320/TasselHeadPUmbro.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Then I thought: am I making this too complicated? This tassel was made near the beginning of the 20th century - what was available to embroiderers then? There is one knot explained in the <i><a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/20776/20776-h/chapter_11.html">DMC Encyclopedia</a></i> (scroll down to the bottom) and one in the Italian <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2013/04/old-needlework-encyclopedia-volume-ii.html">Book of Women's Work</a> which I showed you here. I tried them both. They were the closest yet to mine.<br />
<br />
Still, they took me some time to work and the thought of taking an hour to make each knot when I had 92 to make motivated me to investigate YouTube, now that I had the name "Chinese Knot" at least to reference. Well, I lost a few days watching YouTube videos but I finally settled on Suzen Millodot's <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKGTQVIzWBE">Double Chinese Button Knot tied on a single cord</a> because it's pretty close and because it's relatively easy. I won't know for sure until I get better at making the knot.<br />
<br />
I added the French knots as picots in the four corners of the bottom like the ones on my tassel and I'd say that with some practise, I could be happy with these.<br />
<br />
Here's a bottom view for comparison:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T1L_qXOkG6w/Vb6RzE_zu_I/AAAAAAAADrQ/0xufG3Ng9Nw/s1600/DoubleChineseButtonKnot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T1L_qXOkG6w/Vb6RzE_zu_I/AAAAAAAADrQ/0xufG3Ng9Nw/s320/DoubleChineseButtonKnot.jpg" width="273" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double Chinese Button Knot</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Now, I really liked the Monkey Fist knot with picots too but that will be for a tassel not related to this one. I show you a photo of a single and then a group of four knotted together just in case you might like to make some for yourself!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iW2EmQUCZRI/Vb6T3-S5ahI/AAAAAAAADrc/etnRnRJdqXE/s1600/PugnoScimmia-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iW2EmQUCZRI/Vb6T3-S5ahI/AAAAAAAADrc/etnRnRJdqXE/s320/PugnoScimmia-1.jpg" width="241" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monkey Fist Knot with French Knot picots</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VEsiwQyQbmQ/Vb6T6X-FCRI/AAAAAAAADrk/O6to_aCm5Gc/s1600/PugnoScimmia-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VEsiwQyQbmQ/Vb6T6X-FCRI/AAAAAAAADrk/O6to_aCm5Gc/s320/PugnoScimmia-2.jpg" width="248" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Four Monkey Fist Knots with Picots tied together.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
If you know what knot it really is on my tassel, will you leave a comment below and let me know?<br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-84976544142422860272015-07-10T14:49:00.000-07:002015-07-10T14:49:57.403-07:00Printwork Embroidery or Ricamo a Chiaroscuro<br />
Some fun news, I've starting writing a regular column for the new Italian embroidery magazine <i><a href="http://www.giulianaricama.com/">Giuliana Ricama</a></i> that <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2015/05/giuliana-ricama-new-needlework-magazine.html">I told you about here</a>. They have graciously permitted me to print an English translation of my column here on my blog when each issue that it appears in has come out. So, if you're in Italy and you'd like to read the article in Italian, you'll have to <a href="http://www.giulianaricama.com/contatti">contact the magazine</a>, but for those English speakers, it is below. Please note that the photos of the actual embroidery did not appear in the magazine due to technical issues and the photo of the original etching print does not appear here on my blog because the magazine purchased permission to use it and my blog did not.<br />
<br />
One more thing: the photos of this embroidery were sent to me by a lady who contacted me trying to find out something about the piece that she had found at an antiques shop in the U.S. The photos are hers and are used here with permission.<br />
<br />
----------------------------------<br />
<br />
<b>Printwork Embroidery</b> is a technique of embroidery that imitates engraving artwork prints and was very popular in the first half of the 1800s. It then experienced a great revival after the <i>The Great Exposition</i> of London in 1851 where a masterpiece of the technique which featured a young girl embroidering surrounded by the alpine countryside was exhibited by the Swiss embroiderer J.U. Tanner.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7Pw7hSIGUg/VZGwbCTTnNI/AAAAAAAADoQ/GC3VtXod5ss/s1600/TannerEmbroidery.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7Pw7hSIGUg/VZGwbCTTnNI/AAAAAAAADoQ/GC3VtXod5ss/s320/TannerEmbroidery.jpeg" width="206" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Great pains were taken to precisely imitate the marks of the engraver and in order to reproduce the effect of the prints, the embroidery was executed in silk thread in either black or tones of seppia brown. In some cases the work was realized entirely with stitches while in others the background was given washes of colour in order to produce tones similar to the original etching and to avoid endless detailed stitching to obtain a three-dimensional effect.<br />
<br />
Catalogues of Italian expositions of the period attest to many prizes being awarded for excellence in this technique as we can deduce from this quote: "...printwork embroidery in silk (awarded) for accuracy and fineness of work and for the well-understood application of shading". (<i>Provincial Exposition of Industry and Agriculture</i> held in Parma, 1871.) In that catalogue there are a dozen prizes which were awarded to this technique alone.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UJgI_UGCTPo/VZG3SeOOOQI/AAAAAAAADog/yFPkvoaL5WE/s1600/Felice_Orsini-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UJgI_UGCTPo/VZG3SeOOOQI/AAAAAAAADog/yFPkvoaL5WE/s320/Felice_Orsini-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The photos are of a piece that was found at an antiques shop in Crystal River, Florida in the U.S. about 20 years ago. It is a work that is executed with great skill by an embroiderer whose name we know: Luigia Muzio. Dimensions of the piece are 18cm x 12cm and everything is stitched except the date which is printed in ink with a stain around it. After it was purchased, it was reframed using archival materials to ensure it's protection. The ground fabric is silk while the thread is difficult to determine whether it is very fine silk or hair. The embroidery is in good condition with the exception of a bit of deterioration at the top corners. The dedication reads: "For M. Maria Elisabetta Simons in thanks Muzio Luigia stitched 1869".<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qirfZAiioJY/VZG3SfFamCI/AAAAAAAADos/CSyXF421Az4/s1600/Felice_Orsini-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qirfZAiioJY/VZG3SfFamCI/AAAAAAAADos/CSyXF421Az4/s320/Felice_Orsini-2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Depicted is <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Felice_Orsini">Felice Orsini</a></i> (1819-1858) an Italian patriot who became famous for his <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orsini_affair">attempt to assassinate</a> <i>Napoleon III</i> on the 14th of January 1858 and for which he was later guillotined in <i>Paris</i> that same year.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aSydTNNB9io/VZG3VDbYMuI/AAAAAAAADo0/j5zt1s2mKRk/s1600/Felice_Orsini-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aSydTNNB9io/VZG3VDbYMuI/AAAAAAAADo0/j5zt1s2mKRk/s320/Felice_Orsini-3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
The original artwork print is signed <i>Masutti</i> (which could be the artist Antonio Masutti, 1813-1895) and today is part of the collection of the <a href="http://www.museorisorgimentotorino.it/">Risorgimento Museum</a> in <i>Turin</i>, Italy. The embroidered copy meanwhile, can be found with the American lady who found it at her home in North Carolina. It is unknown if the embroidery was executed in Italy or in America.<br />
<br />
----------------------------------<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
(The subject of the print is <i>Felice Orsini</i> making bombs of his own design in his room in England where he tested them before making the attempt on the life of the French Emperor in Paris.)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b-83XGxF2N4/VZG3WXHCZjI/AAAAAAAADo8/XlKP7yHLQ00/s1600/Felice_Orsini-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b-83XGxF2N4/VZG3WXHCZjI/AAAAAAAADo8/XlKP7yHLQ00/s320/Felice_Orsini-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Thank so much to <b>Susan</b> for permission to use her photos and for the wonderful adventure of investigating this interesting piece!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-49518532692558550752015-07-04T11:26:00.001-07:002015-07-04T15:18:47.336-07:00Punto Risparmiato - Split Stitch Needlepainting<br />
When I think of <b>Needlepainting</b> embroidery I usually think of the <i>Long and Short Stitch</i>. There are many talented embroiderers around the world who make the most beautiful pictures with this stitch.<br />
<br />
When I was first translating Italian needlework terminology, I came across <b>Punto Risparmiato</b> which is the <i>Split Stitch</i> and I noticed that traditionally and historically it seemed a lot more prevalent in Italian needlework than in North American embroidery for example. I mistakenly thought that it was old-fashioned or perhaps little used today versus during our mother's and grandmother's days. As I was searching out typically Italian needlework techniques, I basically ignored and/or discounted this stitch as not very interesting.<br />
<br />
Boy was I wrong. Now, I don't know about other countries or even much about North America but the Italians have done some breathtaking things with <b>Punto Risparmiato</b> and since that is what we concern ourselves with here at Italian Needlework, let's talk a bit about that.<br />
<br />
<b>Punto Risparmiato</b> is the <i>Split Stitch</i> as I mentioned above, but "risparmiare" is the verb "to save" as in "to economize on". If you look at the back of the work, you can see that there is not as much thread coverage on the back as there is in say, <i>Long and Short Stitch</i> or <i>Satin Stitch</i> or even <i>Straight Stitch</i> embroidery. Threads are expensive, especially silk threads so it makes sense to use <b>Punto Risparmiato</b> when creating a <b>Needlepainting</b> picture.<br />
<br />
<i>Laura Boglione</i> of <i><a href="http://www.grossetoricamo.altervista.org/">Il Club del Ricamo e Arti Femminili di Grosseto</a></i> in <i>Tuscany</i> has recently published a didactic manual packed full of tips and advice for using <b><a href="http://www.nuovas1.it/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=321:punto-risparmiato&catid=92&Itemid=595">Il Punto Risparmiato</a></b>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.nuovas1.it/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=321:punto-risparmiato&catid=92&Itemid=595"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AvkkCS16zG0/VZgRqjvcynI/AAAAAAAADpM/a_V_y25tWkc/s320/PuntoRisparmiatoCopertina.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<br />
This little manual is 63 pages and has more than a dozen designs for projects as well as step-by-step big colour photos and explanations for a few other complimentary stitches to use alongside <b>Punto Risparmiato</b>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V-nHV1gLCSI/VZgf5yYuQEI/AAAAAAAADpc/_4MMII0L6q4/s1600/PuntoRisparmiato-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V-nHV1gLCSI/VZgf5yYuQEI/AAAAAAAADpc/_4MMII0L6q4/s320/PuntoRisparmiato-1.jpg" width="318" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the projects from Il Punto Risparmiato by Laura Boglione.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Clicking on the photo of the book cover will take you to where you can see a preview of a few of the book's pages.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fed7sKJB6Fk/VZgi6FYvD9I/AAAAAAAADpo/upGKqjx49bk/s1600/PuntoRisparmiato-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fed7sKJB6Fk/VZgi6FYvD9I/AAAAAAAADpo/upGKqjx49bk/s320/PuntoRisparmiato-2.jpg" width="315" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of four vignettes of the Tuscan countryside from the book.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I had never considered <i>Split Stitch</i> for <b>Needlepainting</b> before and it's got me thinking that maybe it's something that I could do as my own experiments with <i>Long and Short Stitch</i> have been a little haphazard to say the least. I think with <b>Punto Risparmiato</b> being a little more regulated, I would feel more comfortable and less afraid. In the introduction of the book <i>Signora Boglione</i> says that the stitch is quickly learned and there are very few "rules" for execution. A versatile and manageable stitch that can be used on many kinds of fabric. It is a perfect stitch for allowing freedom when executing it, thus leaving the designs open to each embroiderer's own creativity and taste.<br />
<br />
This book is available direct from the Italian publisher <a href="http://www.nuovas1.it/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=190&Itemid=616">NuovaS1</a>, they take PayPal or you can get it from <a href="http://lacis.com/catalog/">Lacis</a> in the U.S. Text in Italian.<br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-53744046187007575402015-05-30T12:07:00.002-07:002015-05-30T12:07:58.436-07:00Estense Embroidery in Inspirations Magazine<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://inspirationsmagazine.com.au/current-issue/"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5M0ram6gtRE/VWoAUcugvRI/AAAAAAAADmw/Q4s0SqRhNi4/s320/Inspirations86Cover.png" width="246" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The latest issue of the Australian embroidery magazine <b><a href="https://inspirationsmagazine.com.au/current-issue/">Inspirations</a></b> is out and it is a really, REALLY nice one. Among the other beautiful projects in this issue are two little <b><a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2010/06/ricamo-estense.html">Estense Embroidery</a></b> items from <i>Elisabetta Holzer</i> of <i>Ferrara</i>, Italy.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BfsnBsCfg-E/VWn_ewaczMI/AAAAAAAADmo/AM4ZWWUNm2M/s1600/ProgettiRicamoEstense-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BfsnBsCfg-E/VWn_ewaczMI/AAAAAAAADmo/AM4ZWWUNm2M/s320/ProgettiRicamoEstense-1.png" width="247" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elisabetta Holzer's Estense Embroidery projects from the latest Inspirations.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A thimble holder and a small bell-shaped ornament done in the characteristic colours of <b>Estense Embroidery</b>. I translated the instructions and did some stitch diagrams and I have to say it looks wonderful and I am so proud to have been a part of this! <b>Inspirations</b> really is the world's most beautiful embroidery magazine.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DHEuZ4DHiUU/VWn_XzqFLGI/AAAAAAAADmY/IDE5fdFGhhw/s1600/PortaDitaleRicamoEstense.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DHEuZ4DHiUU/VWn_XzqFLGI/AAAAAAAADmY/IDE5fdFGhhw/s320/PortaDitaleRicamoEstense.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
As you already know, I absolutely love <b>Estense Embroidery</b> so I jumped at the chance to help make this happen. I had such a good time stitching the projects (I always test out my translations if I can by making the project I'm translating or at least trying out the stitches to ensure that what I've written in English makes sense). I had never assembled something like this before but always admired those little thimble holders.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bSt82rbFkrg/VWoE4LLyIMI/AAAAAAAADm8/ZNdmF9j6eqg/s1600/RE-PortaDitale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bSt82rbFkrg/VWoE4LLyIMI/AAAAAAAADm8/ZNdmF9j6eqg/s320/RE-PortaDitale.jpg" width="275" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My own attempt at the thimble holder project.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There was something very enjoyable about putting these together that made me notice and miss that I haven't had much stitching time lately.<br />
<br />
I really only needed to check the assembly instructions for the bell so mine is not as ornately embroidered as the one in <b>Inspirations</b>, but I like it all the same.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IkcwS8Alr7s/VWoHvwEgslI/AAAAAAAADnI/_Sqw4CugxYY/s1600/RE-Bell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IkcwS8Alr7s/VWoHvwEgslI/AAAAAAAADnI/_Sqw4CugxYY/s320/RE-Bell.jpg" width="185" /></a></div>
<br />
There is even a little book review of <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2014/08/estense-embroidery-new-book.html"><i>Elisabetta's</i> latest manual</a>:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aozLvtJ9r60/VWn_SukzPfI/AAAAAAAADmQ/Fvy_YyOfzpQ/s1600/ManualeRicamoEstenseRecensione.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="90" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aozLvtJ9r60/VWn_SukzPfI/AAAAAAAADmQ/Fvy_YyOfzpQ/s320/ManualeRicamoEstenseRecensione.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
If you haven't take a look at <b>Inspirations</b> for awhile this is definitely an issue to treasure, it is packed with so many interesting historical articles and the projects are outstanding. You can get a digital subscription or just buy one <a href="http://ca.zinio.com/www/browse/product.jsp?rf=sch&productId=500668820">digital issue from Zinio</a> instead of waiting for the mail.<br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-88314144038269345412015-05-13T11:21:00.002-07:002015-05-13T11:21:29.067-07:00Giuliana ricama - new needlework magazine<br />
Last June I received an excited email from a friend in <i>Verona</i> with news that very soon a brand new embroidery magazine was about to come out with their first issue. My friend had met with and liked the people involved and was writing to tell me that she was sending me a copy.<br />
<br />
There was much excited buzz online about this new magazine when the first issue was released. It was different from all its predecessors and distributed only through needlework schools. Issue "0" was free of charge!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0o3shz0eaBk/VUgCx3oQUvI/AAAAAAAADkw/QGhmSLcQar8/s1600/GiulianaRicama-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0o3shz0eaBk/VUgCx3oQUvI/AAAAAAAADkw/QGhmSLcQar8/s320/GiulianaRicama-1.jpg" width="232" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Issue "0" of Giuliana ricama, June 2014.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Even before I received my copy I had lots of emails from Italian embroiderers asking if I knew about it, if I'd seen it yet, what did I think? Reviews were mixed. Some people were very enthusiastic, some less so. What I did hear loud and clear was that it was different from what people were used to - in every way. Change is good. The magazine had gotten people's attention and they were talking about it.<br />
<br />
Italian embroidery magazines have traditionally tended to be beautiful. High-glossy pages full of breathtakingly beautiful masterpieces. Sparse on instructions, mostly eye-candy.<br />
<br />
When my copy of <b>Giuliana ricama</b> arrived I tried to be impartial as I wanted to do a review on my blog. Large format (9 1/2" x 11 7/8") with perfect binding and a heavy card cover, it has semi-gloss paper inside and just over 100 pages. It's too big to fit in my scanner so I have to give you cropped cover pics.<br />
<br />
The macramé beach accessories on the cover interested me. The first page inside the cover had an advertisement that promised digital download for your smart phone or tablet, this also interested me.<br />
<br />
The letter from the editor asked for feedback, collaboration and ideas.<br />
<br />
There was a wide variety of projects: traditional embroidery, drawn-thread work, cross-stitch, macrame, crochet, bobbin lace, trapunto, reticello, punto antico, cutwork, huck-weaving, sicilian filet lace. Traditional projects like bed linens as well as fun things like t-shirt embellishment. Relatively simple projects, nothing that seemed like years of work. The magazine seemed to me to be aimed at young women or perhaps women with younger children.<br />
<br />
Personally, (and you know I'm interested in Italian needlework almost exclusively) while there were some Italian-needlework specific projects, I didn't think it would be a magazine for me mainly because of the level of simplicity and that I felt the projects were too "young" for me.<br />
<br />
However, when issue No. 1 came out and I saw the cover art online with <i><a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2010/11/punte-nu-sardinian-knotted-stitch.html">Sardinian Punt'e nù</a></i> embroidery, I was curious enough to ask a friend to send me a copy. I was delighted to find that this new issue had a number of historical articles and an interview with one of the masters of Italian needlework.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ebIHhi4vwwI/VUgeZmIcF5I/AAAAAAAADlA/eTk9H0ftFxo/s1600/GiulianaRicama-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ebIHhi4vwwI/VUgeZmIcF5I/AAAAAAAADlA/eTk9H0ftFxo/s320/GiulianaRicama-2.jpg" width="232" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Issue no. 1 of Giuliana ricama, November 2014.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I started to hear good things about the staff of the magazine from people who were meeting them at the various textile fairs and shows in Italy.<br />
<br />
<b>Giuliana Ricama</b> was not distributed on newsstands but through Italian embroidery schools. If you wanted a subscription, you had to do it through your local needlework school. I liked this idea, it meant that only those who were interested had exposure to it. The down-side to this of course is that all those people who embroider at home without attending schools don't see it on the racks of their local supermarket. But really, how often do you see needlework magazines on the racks anymore? Unfortunately this also meant that those of us outside of Italy could not subscribe. I was very lucky to have a friend gift me with a subscription but I feel incredibly guilty at the cost of overseas shipping every time I receive a new issue and imagine that my friend has other things to spend her money on, but I'm grateful nonetheless that she is making it possible for me to see this magazine.<br />
<br />
One thing I noticed immediately in this issue was that the ad promising future digital support was gone and I have since learned that they have decided not to pursue the digital subscription option.<br />
<br />
Issue No. 2 arrived and I was happy to see that the historical articles and interviews seemed to now be regular features. The range of ideas for projects was widening, this time there were things for those people who like to do historical re-enactment costuming. Step by step photos of stitch instructions were more elaborate and numerous than previous issues. There were some more-involved and technically-advanced projects too, not just simple quickies anymore, though small projects were still offered as well.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C-_SQSNuJZQ/VUgebH4xtAI/AAAAAAAADlI/iAxM5EIQkuk/s1600/GiulianaRicama-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C-_SQSNuJZQ/VUgebH4xtAI/AAAAAAAADlI/iAxM5EIQkuk/s320/GiulianaRicama-3.jpg" width="232" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Issue no. 2 of Giuliana ricama, February 2015.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I have to say, having seen the cover art online, I couldn't wait for Issue No. 3 to arrive. This time I was inspired to stitch more than one of the projects. There was a subscription form in this issue which meant that <i>if you lived in Italy</i>, you could now get your issues delivered to your home instead of your local embroidery school. The letter from the editor continued to ask for feedback and collaboration and to point out that they were implementing reader suggestions in an effort to improve the magazine with each issue. I think they are doing just that - improving with every new issue. I saw the collaboration of various embroidery schools who seemed to be abundantly submitting projects. I for one, am looking forward to seeing what the next issue holds - changed my tune, didn't I?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BbPDE6j-528/VUgebFEEqUI/AAAAAAAADlM/rqNlomuBhKA/s1600/GiulianaRicama-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BbPDE6j-528/VUgebFEEqUI/AAAAAAAADlM/rqNlomuBhKA/s320/GiulianaRicama-4.jpg" width="232" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Issue no. 3 of Giuliana ricama, April 2015.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
When I was in Italy this past April, I went to their offices to meet with the editor-in-chief <i>Marco</i> and the sales manager <i>Nicoletta</i>. We sat in a room full of boxes of needlework that had been sent to the magazine for future issue projects. I may have peaked, but I'll never tell!<br />
<br />
The staff are very dedicated to the magazine and very much in need of support from anyone who is willing to submit projects, ideas and/or articles. Their interest is not limited to Italian needlework so this means that you can support them with any idea that you might have. <a href="http://www.giulianaricama.com/chi-siamo">Contact them here.</a> They really do want to hear from you!<br />
<br />
Just so I've said it, the text of the magazine is in Italian.<br />
<br />
Giuliana Ricama website: http://www.giulianaricama.com/<br />
Giuliana Ricama Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/giulianaricama<br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-32830648692786393552015-05-02T07:59:00.000-07:002015-05-02T07:59:36.479-07:00Valsesian Puncetto<br />
I was recently gifted a flight to Italy and as you can imagine, dropped everything and went. I spent Easter in <i>Rome</i> then travelled to <i>Verona</i>, <i>Florence</i>, <i>Prato</i>, <i>Bologna</i> and on to the <i>Valsesia</i> region in the north eastern part of <i>Piedmont</i>, at the foot of the Italian Alps.<br />
<br />
I had never been to this region and knew it only by reputation of the beautiful <b><a href="https://www.google.com/culturalinstitute/exhibit/valsesian-puncetto-lace/gQF4HupT?hl=en">Puncetto</a></b> needle lace so I was very excited to be offered the chance to drive up there with a couple of friends. I immediately contacted <i>Paola Scarrone</i> of the <i>Scuola di Puncetto Valsesiano</i> in <i>Varallo</i> to see if I could take advantage of their program <i>"Puncetto whenever you want"</i> which, aside from their other didactic programs, offers you the chance of lessons when you happen to be in the area.<br />
<br />
I had recently been in contact with <i>Paola</i> as she and her association were kind enough to provide photography for my latest historical article on <b>Puncetto</b> in the <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/piecework-may-june-2015">May/June 2015 issue of <i>Piecework</i></a> magazine. We set up a lesson with <i>Angela Stefanutto</i> who I had previously studied with at <a href="http://italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2011/06/puncetto-workshop.html">Italia Invita in 2011</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/piecework-may-june-2015"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IKsdKiOM_Jk/VUTlfFOVaQI/AAAAAAAADkg/vFfJco_Hm-Q/s1600/PieceworkLaceIssue2015.png" height="132" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We arrived at the historic <a href="http://www.monterosavalsesia.com/hotel_resort_valsesia/it/it-albergo-italia.html">Albergo Italia</a> in <i>Varallo</i> where the lesson took place and were delighted to find not only <i>Angela</i> but the hotel owner's wife <i>Ornella Marchi</i> was also a lover of <b>Puncetto</b>. In the hotel lobby are some framed pieces as well as wood cut designs which imitate the lace and the dining room curtains all had inserts of <b>Puncetto</b>, each one different from all the others.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tVL0LgeoQXg/VUTgqKW-46I/AAAAAAAADkE/0LZQy6CstT4/s1600/Puncetto2015-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tVL0LgeoQXg/VUTgqKW-46I/AAAAAAAADkE/0LZQy6CstT4/s1600/Puncetto2015-5.jpg" height="320" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Different Puncetto motifs in coloured thread in the lobby of the Albergo Italia.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ilGJE6MhkOs/VUTgpD8wZ6I/AAAAAAAADj8/gO-bQorbqIw/s1600/Puncetto2015-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ilGJE6MhkOs/VUTgpD8wZ6I/AAAAAAAADj8/gO-bQorbqIw/s1600/Puncetto2015-6.jpg" height="320" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wooden post with magnifying glass and Puncetto in the knob at the Albergo Italia.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We spent a delightful couple of hours together and <i>Angela</i> kindly corrected my mistakes and misconceptions and tirelessly showed me examples of all kinds of different situations. I wish I lived closer to her so I could go to her on a regular basis. She is the very best teacher!<br />
<br />
<i>Angela</i> also told me that the instructional book that she and her association had written in 2009: <i>A Scuola di Puncetto Valsesiano</i> had finally been reprinted and was now available for purchase (see below). I know that many of my readers had been frustrated with it's lack of availability so you will no doubt be happy to know that you can now find it.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TGfUwOEWFfo/UcSfFsbExwI/AAAAAAAAC4o/kxX94tWqEvo/s1600/PuncettoValsesiano.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TGfUwOEWFfo/UcSfFsbExwI/AAAAAAAAC4o/kxX94tWqEvo/s1600/PuncettoValsesiano.jpg" height="319" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Of the three books that they have written, this is the one you want for getting started.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After coffee, we went along to their shop the <i>Bottega Dell'Artigianato</i> at Corso Umberto, no. 1 in <i>Varallo</i> (a short walk from the hotel) where there are all kinds of local artisan items for sale including <b>Puncetto</b> needle lace pieces.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h0flt_E-ILE/VUTfrvWB0FI/AAAAAAAADj0/tYOlsnQOjws/s1600/Puncetto2015-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h0flt_E-ILE/VUTfrvWB0FI/AAAAAAAADj0/tYOlsnQOjws/s1600/Puncetto2015-4.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The shop Bottega Dell'Artigianato in Varallo.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3xb-NgICwNQ/VUThYpS8oPI/AAAAAAAADkM/EpdqftVRr9U/s1600/Puncetto2015-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3xb-NgICwNQ/VUThYpS8oPI/AAAAAAAADkM/EpdqftVRr9U/s1600/Puncetto2015-2.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coloured Puncetto on the apron of a traditional costume in the Bottega Dell'Artigianato.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0G3NIK5Fmoc/VUThaa9q1RI/AAAAAAAADkU/qz4HDuGKG4Y/s1600/Puncetto2015-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0G3NIK5Fmoc/VUThaa9q1RI/AAAAAAAADkU/qz4HDuGKG4Y/s1600/Puncetto2015-3.jpg" height="320" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Puncetto collar and yoke on the blouse of a traditional costume in the Bottega Dell'Artigianato.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I purchased four small pieces of <b>Puncetto</b> lace and the reprint of the manual. It was so difficult to choose, there were so many beautiful things!<br />
<br />
Back at our home base in <i>Prato Sesia</i>, our hostess gifted me with an exquisite framed piece of <b>Puncetto</b> which she had hanging in her home.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nmWXSvR03y4/VUTbn204eZI/AAAAAAAADjo/E87z3kO8gkw/s1600/Puncetto2015-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nmWXSvR03y4/VUTbn204eZI/AAAAAAAADjo/E87z3kO8gkw/s1600/Puncetto2015-1.jpg" height="320" width="189" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wonderful framed Puncetto hanging on the wall in Prato Sesia before it was given to me.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
You can purchase <i>A Scuola di Puncetto Valsesiano</i> from <a href="http://www.tombolodisegni.it/LIBRI%20PUNCETTO.htm">Tombolo Disegni</a>.<br />
<br />
<i><b>Thank you to Bianca Rosa for the use of her photo!</b></i><br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-83478300384418677922015-03-21T13:10:00.001-07:002015-03-21T13:10:42.562-07:00DMC Natura Just Cotton for tassel making<br />
The last time I went to Italy in October of 2013, a friend from home asked me to get her some <i>Lampo Cotone Povero</i> yarn to make tassels. It proved to be a difficult task and I was unable to get her any.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zDO_yOeikt4/VQ3JuLrYbqI/AAAAAAAADiY/LszgZ9vB2z0/s1600/Natura-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zDO_yOeikt4/VQ3JuLrYbqI/AAAAAAAADiY/LszgZ9vB2z0/s1600/Natura-6.jpg" height="320" width="259" /></a></div>
<br />
We've talked about <i>Cotone Povero</i> before here on the blog. It is a 100% pure soft cotton yarn with a matte finish used in Italy to <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2013/07/triple-knotted-tassel.html">make tassels</a> and for stitching <i><a href="http://www.accademiapuntoassisi.com/inglese/ing_punto_madama.htm">Caterina de'Medici</a></i> embroidery among other things. At one time in history it came in many colours but now I believe you can only get natural or white though ebay searches still turn up other colours from time to time. The balls are 50 grams at about $3.00 USD each and you can make a lot with one ball. The yarn is made up of 6 threads twisted together. It is available from various places online like <a href="http://www.tombolodisegni.it/">Tombolo Disegni</a>, <a href="http://www.ricamiamo-insieme.com/catalog/">Ricamiamo-Insieme</a>, <a href="http://www.bergamascomerceria.it/">Bergamasco</a>, etc. but I was unable to find it in any store I walked into in <i>Rome</i>, <i>Florence</i> or anywhere I was in <i>Puglia</i>. This is not to say it's not there, I just couldn't find it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sxgz6YV-kPg/VQ3J4ojzELI/AAAAAAAADig/D-hLKyvahZA/s1600/Natura-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sxgz6YV-kPg/VQ3J4ojzELI/AAAAAAAADig/D-hLKyvahZA/s1600/Natura-1.jpg" height="243" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Upon returning home I was told by an Italian friend that DMC makes a soft cotton yarn which is a nice substitute called <b>Natura Just Cotton</b>. It comes in many colours and is available outside of Italy though not in North America that I could find at the time. I ordered mine from <a href="http://www.sewandso.co.uk/">Sew and So in the UK</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0h-oTC7rgDs/VQ3K9uQTFnI/AAAAAAAADiw/ljPfxIKIeEc/s1600/Natura-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0h-oTC7rgDs/VQ3K9uQTFnI/AAAAAAAADiw/ljPfxIKIeEc/s1600/Natura-3.jpg" height="320" width="157" /></a></div>
<br />
The balls are 50 grams and the yarn is made up of 8 twisted threads. I see it is now listed on the DMC US website but internet searches for resellers still result in mostly UK sources. Price is about $4.00 USD.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LfQdRABhd4k/VQ3KyZiXIOI/AAAAAAAADio/m7HghCAW0D4/s1600/Natura-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LfQdRABhd4k/VQ3KyZiXIOI/AAAAAAAADio/m7HghCAW0D4/s1600/Natura-4.jpg" height="159" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Lampo Cotone Povero</i> on the top, <b>DMC Natura Just Cotton</b> on the bottom.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Comparing the two yarns, they are not identical but I decided to go all the way through an experiment to see if I liked the <b>Natura</b> anyway. I'm not sure that you can see, but the <i>Cotone Povero</i> is ever-so-slightly thicker and it's hard to tell from the photo but the <b>Natura</b> is slightly less "matte" than the <i>Cotone Povero</i>.<br />
<br />
While in <i>Phoenix</i> last October at the <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2014/10/ega-national-seminar-italian-purchases.html">EGA National Seminar</a>, I bought a <a href="http://atmosferadicasa.blogspot.ca/2014_02_01_archive.html">Deruta ceramic fuserola bead</a> that my daughter picked out for herself, she wanted a tassel to match her camera strap. I got <b>DMC Natura</b> in black and Sable to match the bead.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s4uxJs7DRnM/VQ3LTnDm1fI/AAAAAAAADi4/L3Hybb5JYU0/s1600/Natura-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s4uxJs7DRnM/VQ3LTnDm1fI/AAAAAAAADi4/L3Hybb5JYU0/s1600/Natura-2.jpg" height="106" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Battery operated cord twister we dubbed the "zip-zip".</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Using my fantastic new favorite tool, a battery-operated cord twister developed by a lady in <i>Assisi</i> which we lovingly dubbed the "zip-zip" as it makes cording in a zip - I made many many twisted cords. I think the real secret to tassel-making is that when you think you have enough, make more. Tassels should be full and not skimpy.<br />
<br />
Then the knotting process began and I knotted my cording until my fingers were beyond sore. Next step is to string the cut pieces onto yarn as you would when stringing beads, <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2010/05/easy-effective-tassels.html">see this tutorial here</a>. Odd numbers are best, so groups of 3, 5, 7 or 9.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eJz5QdiY3uQ/VQ3LlZA6qbI/AAAAAAAADjA/_DIOtbrL0Mc/s1600/Natura-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eJz5QdiY3uQ/VQ3LlZA6qbI/AAAAAAAADjA/_DIOtbrL0Mc/s1600/Natura-5.jpg" height="320" width="257" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7 "legs" are made up of 5 groups of 9 pieces. <br />There is a cluster at the top of solid Sable and I used Black to string everything together.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I'm pretty happy with the result and I like the fact that <b>DMC Natura</b> comes in so many colours. For tassel-making I think it is a fine substitute for <i>Cotone Povero</i>. Next task will be to do some experiments in using it for <i>Caterina de'Medici</i> embroidery. I'm a little concerned that it may be too thin for the Buratto fabric and that the coverage won't be as good, but that's for another time.<br />
<br />
Do you know of a soft, matte finish cotton yarn available in North America that I could investigate as a substitute for <i>Cotone Povero</i>? If so, please leave a comment below!<br />
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-38727637003620676232015-02-14T16:42:00.000-08:002015-02-14T16:43:45.247-08:00Protagonists of Italian Needlework Crossword Puzzle<br />
A lady from my chapter of the Embroiderers Association of Canada made a crossword puzzle out of needlework clues and I thought it would be fun to do one involving a few names from the history of Italian needlework.<br />
<br />
Most answers can be found by searching my blog, I tried not to be too obscure in the clues. Post a comment with your email addy if you'd like the answers sent to you.<br />
<br />
I hope this is as fun to do as it was to make! Click on the puzzle for a closer look.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--N_vmSagzX0/VN_rMAuN0gI/AAAAAAAADhE/ykQhKpolgh0/s1600/ProtagonistsCrossword-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--N_vmSagzX0/VN_rMAuN0gI/AAAAAAAADhE/ykQhKpolgh0/s1600/ProtagonistsCrossword-1.jpg" height="320" width="190" /></a></div>
<br />Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-44608420859910313792015-02-05T16:04:00.002-08:002015-02-05T16:04:37.338-08:00Deruta Drawn Thread Work - new book!<br />
There is an ever-growing, never-diminishing stack of books on the floor beside my desk that I refuse to put away in my bookshelves because I want to tell you about them. I am woefully behind due to many projects that have more demanding deadlines but today I find myself with a few minutes and I want to tell you about a book which is filled with exquisite <b><a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2011/05/deruta-drawn-thread-work-deruta-sfilato.html">Deruta Drawn Thread Work</a> </b>embroidery or <b>Deruta Sfilato</b> as it's called in Italian.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.nuovas1.it/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=304:deruta-due&catid=92:merlettiericami&Itemid=595"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Q8rbu4HmSU/VNP6I5CvMrI/AAAAAAAADgs/nTXF8njTf7k/s1600/DerutaSfilatoDueCopertina.jpg" height="320" width="225" /></a></div>
<br />
This book actually came out last September and is the second for <i>Maria Elide Melani</i> of <i><a href="http://www.agoagaefantasia.it/site/index.php">Ago, Aga e Fantasia</a></i> on this beautiful and delicate Italian needlework technique. <a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2012/06/deruta-drawn-thread-work-new-book.html">You can read about the first book here</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />I've translated the book introduction for you:<br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">
The forgotten history, the tradition of a lost embroidery that I rediscovered retakes shape and transforms, leaving room for imagination in the creation of small, simple masterpieces.<br />Passing the time to recover the memory, studying old trousseaux and taking inspiration from the designs of many years ago, I felt the need to give a new utility to this embroidery.<br />The fragile cloth is intertwined with needle and thread, faithful to traditional motifs, but here ideas and new colours are born with unusual designs.<br />Purses and pillows in the colours of spring take form together with small lampshades, a delicate little dress which makes you think of a big party, not to mention the color red that offers many ideas for Christmas and many other pieces, outside of tradition and unthinkable until only a few years ago.<br />The simplicity of the execution is accompanied by instructions and photos which illustrate the various stages of the work, making it easy even for less experienced stitchers.<br />I wanted to introduce this book with only a few words because my intent is to let the embroideries and patterns "speak" and, with a personal touch, they can be perfectly adapted to any embroiderer.<br />Happy Stitching!</blockquote>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The book is 60 pages long with many large full-colour photos. The text is in Italian but step-by-step photos guide you along the preparation of the fabric, the mounting of the fabric into the frame, the series of stitches used in this technique and how to execute the various motifs. The only thing you'll really have to spend some time translating (use Google!) are the six sentences about care and washing when you're done. There are 22 patterns for the most exquisite projects: a handbag and workbasket, dress hemline and table runners, several stitching project bags, table centres, towel borders, lampshades, pillows, curtains, Christmas tree decorations and tablecloths. <a href="http://www.nuovas1.it/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=304:deruta-due&catid=92:merlettiericami&Itemid=595">You can see a preview by clicking on the larger photo of the book on this page here</a>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The book is available directly from the publisher <a href="http://www.nuovas1.it/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=190&Itemid=616">Nuova S1</a> - they accept PayPal, or through <a href="http://www.tombolodisegni.it/RICAMO%20ITALIANI.htm">Tombolo Disegni</a> - send an email to order; or from <a href="http://lacis.com/catalog/">Lacis</a> in the US.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6930752093519960948.post-87738688475902790202014-12-26T08:53:00.000-08:002014-12-26T21:52:53.666-08:00Puncetto article translated<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In doing some research lately, I had translated an article on <b><a href="http://www.italian-needlework.blogspot.ca/2010/04/punto-avorio-puncetto-needle-lace.html">Puncetto</a></b> from an old Italian monthly magazine: <i>Vita Femminile Italiana</i> [Italian Women's Life] from 1907. It occurred to me that perhaps you might like to read it as it is not something you would normally come across. Any errors in translation are my own.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L8GHw42hZPc/VJ2NwRv0veI/AAAAAAAADfQ/7Wcm8gcgWjg/s1600/DiplomaFavro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L8GHw42hZPc/VJ2NwRv0veI/AAAAAAAADfQ/7Wcm8gcgWjg/s1600/DiplomaFavro.jpg" height="320" width="205" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clorinda Favro's Diploma from the Genoa Italian Exposition of Women's Work, 1903.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><b>Valle Vogna and Puncetto</b></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">by Modesta dell’Oro Hermil. <i>Vita Femminile Italiana, </i>1907.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">It seems like a fairytale. Once upon a time in a valley far, far away… way up high up in the mountains, there were poor women, young and old, gathered in small huts buried in the snow. Their fathers, husbands, brothers far away in a foreign land to earn their bread. The women, alone in their miserable, difficult life. Finished the few brief tasks of their primitive family life, here they are in the light of the white snow reflected through small black narrow windows and in the evening in the light of the flame, here are the poor fingers that in summer are hardened by the harsh work in the fields, now in the break from the misery, become the nimble fingers of fairies. From those poor fingers blossoms lace, real Alpine flowers, real snowdrops of work, and the fine needle, shiny and patient, works and etches like an engraver.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">And that strong brilliant work then adorns the shoulders of the workers and the lace supports the shoulder basket. Dear Italy, my beautiful homeland, where the light of art, a flower of beauty, emanates and is revealed even among the rocks, even among the poverty, even in the solitude, in the hardship.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">And one day a lady, no, I mean the good fairy, passed by in the months in which the work bustles in the fields. Her expert and practised eye rested on those laces, true carved ivory. Her heart was touched by so much courageous poverty and rude work and the gaze of the artist was attracted to that form of feminine art.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">And so it was that Mrs. Lynch, on a pilgrimage from Ireland, discovered the Valle Vogna and <i>Puncetto</i>.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Puncetto, the alpine stitch, the strong lace of the peasant women. The fundamental stitch is a double buttonhole stitch, that is: a second loop is made in the first and the two combined form a knot so that the lace can be cut without unraveling.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><i>Puncetto</i> is the word of the dialect of some valleys to the south of Monte Rosa for this lace that forms part of the local peasant costume. The seams of their blouses made of linen woven at home, are connected by the lines of incrustations of this lace.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Generally, women in the region are small, delicate, but they work harshly; they are the log splitters, the water bearers, cheese makers, shepherdesses, field workers; it is therefore necessary that every part of their dress can withstand the roughest jobs. “It is made for eternity” say they, and in fact it must be strong! In the summer those frail shoulders carry the trunks of the strangers who spend a few warm weeks at the only little hostelry of the valley.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">A visitor to whom those weights seemed cruel said, “Send me a mule for my trunk. It is full of books, I do not want one of these girls to carry it.” He was told: “There is not one of them who would not regret the half lira that you will give for taking this trunk down to Riva, and a mule would cost more.” And they do it with gratitude.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Money is so scarce! And they take down and bring up those terrible weights on those rough roads, almost like staircases in parts. There are only women and children to struggle with the rocky soil. The picturesque slopes are rough to cultivate, almost only pendent edges, onto which frequently a layer of earth must first be brought and then carefully fenced, sheltered, supported, otherwise it would be washed away by rain and lost.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">For a few weeks in the summer many women can earn some money by carrying huge weights on their shoulders, not only trunks, but also beams to the sawmill and staves to the Cooper, but how many times these small earnings are spent in anticipation!</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Where and when was Puncetto first made?</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">The peasants who wear it, in Valsesia, Valle Vogna and the nearby valleys answer: “it is very old; it was old at the time of our grandmothers.”</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">The alpine women of Parrè in the Bergamo Alps produce a lace very similar to Puncetto and they associate it to the time of the plagues, saying that even then it was already an old authentic lace. At the time of the plague the women of Parrè vowed that neither they, nor their descendants would ever change their ancient costume, nor would they ever follow the dictates of fashion if only the plague were stayed. Outside the Sesia Valley, in other parts of the Alps, the same quality of lace is called “ivory stitch”, “saracen stitch”, “greek stitch” and “alpine stitch”. <i>Saracen stitch</i> could be the name given to anything in the days when the terrible pirates reigned terror down on the inhabitants. Towers, castles, hills, mountain passes, still carry the names of Saracens even when history shows no correlation between them and anything moorish.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">The name “greek lace” may be supposed to be due to that many of the closest, tightest patterns of Puncetto have a distinct resemblance to the ancient handwoven linen used in the early pieces of Cutwork.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">The oldest of all forms of lace was the Drawn-thread Work, the second, Cutwork and both forms flourished in Byzantium in the days of the Roman Empire. Puncetto, under its various names is only found in the Alps. A scholar of the history of lace expressed the theory that the Alpine stitch is the third age in the family of lace. We must not forget that Puncetto, although it is an authentic and beautiful lace is rather a kind of idealized macramé and not the soft spider webs of Honiton, Valenciennes, Point de Bruxelles, etc.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">These rich rigid substantial laces have their own special use, they are especially suitable for household linen and everywhere where an edging of fine passementerie or gimp would go nicely. Puncetto takes a long time to execute and can never therefore be done cheaply.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">A former schoolteacher, during twenty-seven long years, taught the girls of Valle Vogna to use their needle as true artists during the long harsh winters. She sensed the opportunity, the benefits that the foundation of an industry of lace would offer to her pupils. No one better than she could understand the misery, the gloom of the long months of winter, when, ill-fed, ill-heated many of those girls did not even have the relief of work, but spent the long painful hours waiting for May.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">The snow begins to fall generally in mid-October to melt, then fall again. At Michaelmas the cattle descend from the high Alps. Some go to fairs, others spend the winter at lower levels, others are installed in one of the divisions on the ground floor of the châlet, which becomes the living room. A solitary weaver said, “I stay here in the winter, my cow is such a nice companion!"</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">The husbands, the fathers, sons, brothers, boyfriends come back, if they want and if they can, from France with a small hoard to spend a few weeks in the brown châlets where they were born.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">But a long and fierce winter has already passed before Christmas brings the men home and another still long and terrible one must pass before the return of spring. It is already late in the year before the field work can be restarted in the higher regions.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Poor, dear old teacher who kept that little flame of art and work alive, lit in the snow, in the silence, in the abandonment! And now from Ireland comes the intelligent and generous aid, and now that little flame has become the great fire of good industry, of well being that warms hearts and the small châlets. She had the satisfaction of seeing the lace industry launched and thriving before going to her final rest in death.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">The story of the small Industry is a story of struggle. When Mrs. Lynch admired the lace, she thought it may offer a means to lift the extreme poverty of many of those women. She believed that when one can such produce a rare and artistic thing, one must find a market for the work. She gave, and conducted the introductions to give orders: collars, cuffs, borders for blouses, lace for lingerie. They were successful. Requests came for pillowcases, tea-table cloths, bedclothes. Gradually they found new uses for the strong lace; altar linens, work bags, etc. An American lady conceived a summer outfit with inserts of seven different lengths of Puncetto from Valle Vogna.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">From poor Ireland came encouragement and invaluable assistance.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">The <i>Daily News</i> of June 1897 announced: “Some of the curious and beautiful point lace of the Valle Vogna, (resembling Greek lace), is being mounted on Irish linen by the Irish Industries Association for Queen Margherita. It is to be offered to Her Majesty by some of her lace making peasant subjects. The Countess Bective has designed the royal crown for the different pieces. They can be seen at the Irish Depôt, Motcomb St., Belgrave Square.”</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">In the <i>Queen</i> newspaper of November 5, 1898: “The Val-Vognian Peasant’s Work. Last winter an Italian gentleman took to Rome, for presentation to Queen Margherita, a tea-table cloth, d’oyleys, and a cushion, trimmed with the handsome lace edgings and insertions made by the Val-Vognian peasants. Her Majesty has just sent, by the hand of the same Piedmontese gentleman 300 lire to be distributed among the workers. They are delighted at this Royal bounty. They never dreamt of reward beyond the honour of the Queen’s acceptance of their work. Now this gift will make a great difference in the lives of three or four poor châlets.”</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">So it began, laborious and ascending. Queen Margherita, whose private collection of lace is of great beauty and value, continued to buy. It was good - she is so surrounded by all the smiles and tears, as in all high art and the humble work of her people, and also Puncetto made from strong and patiently knotted threads in huts buried in the snow, now rigid and serene in the Royal Palace.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">In the six or seven months of the winter reclusion they worked on a bedspread ordered by Her Majesty. It is copied from a pattern from about 400 years ago, the work of an Arab, probably a prisoner. The signature can be seen in the margin of the original piece. A pair of curtains of the same pattern were made at the request of the Italian Minister of Agriculture and Commerce and they go to the St. Louis Exposition. As a door curtain, curtains, etc., these embroideries are Arab-Val-Vognian - admirably suitable and highly artistic. Their true name is: Cutwork. One pair of these curtains gave work to five women over two years.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">The lace done now in Valle Vogna is finer, more even, better designed than the Puncetto of eleven years ago. The industrious workers were given samples of the laces and embroideries of Greece, Bosnia, Hungary and they have copied almost every sort of complicated works of art. They make beautiful towels with knotted fringes that the Arabs introduced to the Mediterranean coasts. They collected photographs of the sculptures of Byzantine Ravenna beautifully suited for Puncetto patterns.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">The dear alpine women like to give special names to their laces. <i>The Mice Ladder</i> for a mass of tiny thin bars. <i>The Lattices of Alpe Motta</i> - for a lace made of criss-crossing lines - <i>Daisies</i> - <i>Rosettes</i> - <i>Lucia’s Pearls</i> - <i>Carolina’s Roses</i> - <i>Trefoils</i> - <i>I Give You Good Morrow</i> - <i>Forget-Me-Not,</i> etc. So much unconscious poetry! In 1899, four women were occupied all day for each day of the week. In the winter of 1900-01 eighteen lacemakers were in constant employment and also the weavers found a market for their linen.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">And they are so glad for each new order, their letters are so full of gratitude! “I must tell you something Signora; when I became too weak for field-labour and our only cow was dead, I said to myself: now my mother and I will perish from hunger. And then came the lace orders. It is as if the hope of work gave me courage and health. We are happy ever since.”</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Lately Valle Vogna had the honour of a request to supply samples of Puncetto, Drawn-thread work and Cutwork from the <i>Royal Museum</i> of Brussels.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Collectors add samples of this special lace to their collections. In the winter Emily Holness’s store <i>Valle Vogna Industry</i> in San Remo at No. 8 Via Vittorio Emanuele sells pieces of Puncetto and in the summer in Ormea from the same Miss Holness. They can be found still from the Ghersi ladies at Courmayeur, Fräulein Huber’s shop in St. Moritz, from Frau Kniel in Davos-Platz.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">In London Puncetto suitable for dress purposes is at Sheba’s in No. 15 Sloan Street, S.W. and the bigger pieces at Walcot’s, Moulton Street, W.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">For any purchase or order or clarification or samples it is best to contact Signora Clorinda Favro, Casa Verso, Valle Vogna, Province of Novara. She is the Chief worker in the Industry. She won a gold medal at the Genoa Exhibition and a diploma from the Ministry of Agriculture, Industries and Commerce.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Land of misery and now land of cheerfulness.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">The whole history of the Valley Vogna is contained in these words.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Poor dear old lady who’s death Mrs. Lynch saw as a blessing. She was believed the first director; she had never seen her do anything for nothing; the nothing - material that implies great spiritual wealth, continually. Then she understood that tenacious, patient, ardent goodness. And in the last hour she saw again the harsh work of summer, the long frozen winters, lonely, dark, like painful vegetating, not a life but a non-death; saw again the poor hands slowly working the Puncetto of home!</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Then she saw the large group of happy and industrious workers, saw the flow of beautiful designs, beautiful antique laces, the multiplication of the work in the better-lit, better-heated huts, saw the poor Puncetto leave for distant countries, go to the Queen, go to museums. She saw a new light of prize-winning work, of intelligence, of emulation and closed her eyes - blessed in that vision and wished that the good old lady might be told that for her "a land of misery is now a land of cheerfulness.”</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Dear little old lady of Valle Vogna!</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">How beautiful the word “cheerfulness" is. She didn’t say wealth or progress - cheerfulness - joy, the bloom of honest, appreciated work; the fruit of the labour, not only in money, but in moral development, in the well-being of the soul.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Kind ladies, make a place among the gauzy laces and soft silks, make a place for the strong Puncetto of Valle Vogna. When you go out in the summer sun, ascend to the mountains in fresh outfits of good linen, make a place for Alpine stitch. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
The soft laces of the living rooms in our artificial light; at the top, in the open air, is the Puncetto worked by hands that have reaped, tilled: the Puncetto worked in winter huts, that blossomed at the foot of the mountains like the edelweiss pure and strong.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
- - - - - - - - - - - -</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<b><i>Many thanks to Bianca Rosa and Ivana!</i></b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span></div>
Jeanine in Canadahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04846336931938366326noreply@blogger.com3