I made something new today. I think it is really special. I have been collecting vintage embroideries for a few years now, tablecloths, napkins, dresser scarves, etc. I only cut into the ones that have holes or stains that don't want to disappear. Today I got up the courage to cut into a few. I have had this idea for awhile and was happy to find the time to attempt it.
After my little one's birthday I have had parties and celebrations on my mind. I really love to think that someone will want to use my handmade things to decorate their wedding, nursery, garden or anywhere they can think of.
For this banner I cut into three different embroidered vintage tablecloths. I also used vintage and repurposed eyelet fabric, a lovely white linen which I decorated with hand stitches of my own and snippets of a doily or laces.
I couldn't stop doing it up, I decided to add some of the fabric flowers I had made one day out in the sun with little one who helped me to turn and stuff them. Those little fingers are so good at such jobs and we had such a nice time chatting, soaking in the sun and doing our little sewing project together.
I am not really sure if perhaps the fabric flowers were over the top?
It is in the shop. Now I am running off to my sewing room to make more garlands!
I have had the exact same idea! But I still have not dared to cut into my tabelsloths...guess I´m waiting for a new super-stain-remover to show up... It looks great! You are soooo good with colours! I love your blog (and sorry if my English i bad...)
Posted by: cissemosse | June 09, 2010 at 10:37 PM
You are so brave! And it really paid off in a big way. I love the addition of the fabric flowers. They add just the right amount of color and dimension.
Posted by: Melissa P | June 09, 2010 at 11:04 PM
It Turned out so beautiful gonna keep the idea in mind! Thanx for your lovely comment on my blog. I love to see your work and get inspired.
miranda
Posted by: saffiertje | June 09, 2010 at 11:04 PM
I can not believe you question the fabric flowers, they anchor the entire banner. I have seen banners before, but what makes this one become forever imbedded in my brain is that somehow you managed to take the banner to the next level - not only did you make the fabric flowers but you also embroidered directly on a few of the triangles. Once again I leave your blog inspired and amazed.
Posted by: The Muse of The Day | June 09, 2010 at 11:50 PM
You just made that comment to get us all to say, "I LOVE the fabric flowers!" didn't you? *L*
It wouldn't be as special without them.
Posted by: Sequana | June 10, 2010 at 02:10 AM
I think the flowers add a very nice touch. I love how delicate this is. Would be lovely at a wedding.
Posted by: gretchen/juneatnoon | June 10, 2010 at 02:48 AM
Very pretty! I love making banners.
Posted by: Michele C | June 10, 2010 at 04:17 AM
It is very pretty and the flowers look perfect with it.
Posted by: Gina | June 10, 2010 at 09:00 AM
I love the fabric flowers and feel they are just the thing to give your banner a feminine and unique touch. I thought they were buttons at first. How do you make them? love, Beth
Posted by: Beth | June 10, 2010 at 05:01 PM
This is such a new twist on an old idea in so many ways. First I love those buttons. I also really appreciate how you've used old linens and have given them a new life. I'm going to add that you are a very brave person. I can't cut these linens but perhaps I'm feeling a little braver seeing you do it. I can hardly wait to see what comes out of that sewing room. It's just fabulous.
Posted by: Valarie Budayr | June 10, 2010 at 05:48 PM
So delicate and feminine - they would be completely out of place in my house ... LOL. But the idea of the stuffed flowers will stick in my brain. I have made the larger pincushion version, so ... hmmm ... There are so many ideas swirling around in my brain from your crafting ...
Hugs
Posted by: Yvette | June 10, 2010 at 08:18 PM
Original - not over the top at all - and gorgeous:) to say the least... Happy thoughts to you!
Posted by: Una | June 10, 2010 at 09:59 PM
Gorgeous as always, Emily!
So delicate and NOT over the top AT ALL!
Did you use Stop Fray or something on the raw edges? I can see you pinkcut..
In my blog I added a link to a galore of links for making fabric flowers + attempted a few: great fun!
Hugs from Eva Mari :D
Posted by: Eva Mari Kirkvaag Bjørgum | June 11, 2010 at 12:19 AM
hi emily! this is by far the prettiest buntings i have ever seen! your previous buntimgs is also very pretty!
Posted by: xue | June 11, 2010 at 01:06 AM
I am loving your new and very inspiring project! This is so gorgeous and its now my favorite garland! I love everything and every details about it, the emboridery, the vintage fabrics, and those gorgeous lovely flowers! Oh please please make more for i want to have one for myself!! I would look GORGEOUS and so uplifting in my little studio! Have a lovely merry happy day and love to yoU!
Posted by: Jacqueline | June 11, 2010 at 04:19 AM
Hi Emily, you have the BEST ideas. I love this idea, and I think the fabric flowers just make it. Not OTT at all.Was trying to work out how you made them. Decided similarly to a suffolk puff but sewn into sections after stuffing. Will have to fiddle around and see if I can work it out.
Thanks for your lovely comment on my blog. I love visiting at yours and come often.
Take care,
Love Jacqui
Posted by: magpie chic | June 11, 2010 at 09:31 AM
THAT is adorable. The buttons make it so perfect!
Posted by: Zemphira Creations | June 14, 2010 at 06:30 AM
Oh my goodness, it is stunning and would make such a beautiful wedding decoration.
Posted by: Rebecca | June 16, 2010 at 12:37 PM