gratitude

This is the season of gratitude. I have so much to be thankful for – life, art, family, work, health, sunshine, and love. All are things that fill my heart daily, never to be taken for granted. And then there are the small reminders of kindness and friendship, such as Jude's appreciative email and blog post this afternoon. Thank you!

The store is stocked with new books, hand stitched sachets, and one of the field study pieces featured in my last post. All orders are 15% off until November 27. Just enter discount code GIVEHANDMADE2012 at checkout. One more way for me to show gratitude.

field studies

I am fascinated by the way natural dye colors relate to each other. Regardless of plant source or origin the fabrics seem to harmonize and enhance rather than compete. This revelation is the inspiration behind my new work series – field study. These pieces have evolved by combining strips of naturally dyed fabrics, almost at random. They are machine quilted rather than hand stitched, to ensure that the color fields get center stage, without distraction. 

Meanwhile my whole neighborhood is ablaze in bright and vivid jewel tones. Even when nature is shouting at its loudest there seems to be harmony and peace rather than clashes and conflicts. Lessons to be learned.