These past few days I have been thinking about how I am so used to always taking a "few" needlework things with me when traveling anywhere. I do not even consider them as 'weight' or 'cumbersome'; they are for me more precious than my clothes actually.
With all the travel this summer I had decided to work on a Hardanger tablecloth and here are some pictures my husband took of me working away in the hospital (some without my even knowing!) In case you wonder - I am wearing a mask throughout because I was running a fever, had a cough and cold and am still dealing with the aftermath of all the 'fun' we have been having this summer...
I have been wondering why I could not have just taken the project, a hoop and maybe a book-light/small magnifier combo with me - didn't need any books etc. since I was developing the design.... I realize that over the years I have just become accustomed to a frame, two handed embroidery and good, magnified light along with good tools (scissors, tweezers, thimbles, laying tool, good needles and pins) and find I do not stitch at all otherwise.
I do have all the various types of paraphernalia as you may suspect in my stash and have been trying to convince myself all last week that I need to perhaps try out my hoops, sit on hoops, hoops with lap stands or clamps etc. and simplify things a bit. I have even taken them all out but then keep hesitating! I have not even tried them again yet because I do not want to crumple up my fabric!
I posted a question on this same topic last night in a few Facebook groups because I wanted to see what the majority of people use : a hoop, a frame, a stand or in hand when they stitch samplers or work on hardanger type projects.
I am intrigued by the answers so far - most seem to use smaller hoops or Q snaps or just stitch in hand and some use frames only for larger projects.
So, I am not sure if becoming so pedantic about things is such a great trait - after all, beautiful needlework can and is done all over the world with simply needle and thread!
4 comments:
I think it all boils down to what you are comfortable with...though I can see that it might be a bit cumbersome to use a frame in public. :)
Sorry you are having so many health issues...mine pale in comparison. Hope you are healed soon...
mj (mjstitches on FB)
I vary as to how I stitch, depending on the project, but generally a hoop in hand is 'my go' to, although I would love a hoop on a stand.... one year.
I do hope your health recovers quickly, you seem to have had more than your share these past few years.
Blessings
Maxine
Thanks Mj and Maxine -
I couldn't even make all this up even if I tried! But, all in all, I am still thankful - it could be much worse...
so, like they say in America : Just keep on keeping on!
I've learned to tolerate hoops, but I really dislike how they crumple my fabric. I prefer scroll frames, although I would like to try slate frames one day. By the way, how do you travel with such a huge frame? I take a small q-snap when stitching while travelling.
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