29 December 2012

Flowering


Last fall I started embroidering a stomacher, which is chronicled here. It's been an on again/off again project and last week I finally finished it! It's not perfect...I'm not crazy about all of my color choices...but it's done and I can (hopefully) wear it next season.


I've been reading the 18th century novel Pamela, or, Virtue rewarded where I learned that embroidering was called "flowering."
Mrs. Jervis shewed my master the waistcoat I am flowering for him, and he said--'It looks well enough: I think the creature had best stay till she has finished it.'

Here are some detailed images of my crewel "flowering"...


Three rows of chain stitches run up the center vine.




My progress from February 2012 and today.

The messy backside. 

Now I need a gown to wear with it. I'm thinking about yellow...

National Trust 

 National Trust


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11 comments:

  1. Anna29 December, 2012 12:13

    That is BEAUTIFUL! My first attempt at "flowering" a pocket was so sad, but I hope to try again some day. I think your stomacher would look lovely with a yellow gown.

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    Replies
    1. Unknown29 December, 2012 15:15

      Thank you, I'm glad that it's finally done! Did you use crewel thread for your pocket? I think the thickness of the wool helps make any errors look more authentic and it goes faster than using regular embroidery floss or silk embroidery thread.

      Delete
  2. MrsC (Maryanne)29 December, 2012 15:04

    Oh yum that is so pretty! And a yellow linen gown would be fab with it!
    I lvoe how the stomacher came first and then the gown - I suspect there's as much work in either! :)

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  3. Alena30 December, 2012 11:03

    I like the color choices! One thing to keep in mind, is it so often would have been seen in the dusk of candle light, or indoors with just windows for illumination. Bold contrasts look so much better than subtlety in dim light.

    Alena

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    Replies
    1. Unknown30 December, 2012 21:23

      Thanks Alena! I think we're taking the same workshop this weekend...see you Saturday!

      Delete
  4. Sandra Brake30 December, 2012 22:25

    You've done it delightfully! I too like the idea of the stomacher coming first and building the dress from there! It's such a focal point after all! Congratulations.

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  5. The Yankee Girl03 January, 2013 19:52

    Oops, I believe I commented on the wrong post. It came out beautifully! I love your color choices, and you've inspired me to want to embroider again!

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  6. Anonymous04 January, 2013 13:34

    Yes...Nice work, but unfortunate color choices.

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    Replies
    1. Unknown04 January, 2013 14:41

      Hi Anonymous,
      Those are the colors that came in the kit. Constructive criticism is always welcome; derogatory comments are not.
      : )

      Delete

Your feedback is appreciated. :)

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