last week over 50 pounds of fabric arrived at my house. and, not just any fabric but amazing lightweight wool that my grandmother had saved for decades. she is leaving her house and moving into a smaller apartment and in going through the house full of things one accumulates over the course of 90 years she decided that I should acquire her fabric. some of it was hers and some of it was even from my great-grandmother(!); all of it was in perfect condition. my grandmother and great-grandmother were both prolific sewers in a time when sewing was more wide-spread. they made jackets, button down shirts, dresses and quilts because their family needed them to but also because they loved it. I have always carried them in my mind as I’ve sewn but I literally have them with me now, in the form of fabric. it feels like a great responsibility as well as a great opportunity.
there were some cottons, too. but, look at this stack of wool! all of it beautiful and lightweight and begging to be sewn. and, what to make? my head is spinning with ideas about iPad holders, throws, quilts, couch pillows, skirts and more. maybe even a jacket for myself?!
so dear readers, have you got any good ideas? what is your favorite wool item?
oh yes, there were also around 5 pounds of lace, rick rac and bias tape. so, I am stocked.
how awesome!!!
Thanks friend!
oh melissa, this is just wonderful. You are going to love working through these fabrics and stitching a bit of your grandmothers into your everyday. I LOVE that first wool, with the grey, red, and blue stripes. And the orange-blue-grey plaid is so funky! Would make a great boy’s coat liner. can’t wait to see what you do with them!
The stripes are my favorite, too. I’m so excited to sew and also a little intimidated!