Moving past November

 ...Wow... November dumped so many challenges... but, I'm happy to say, I'm on the other side of it now. I found literally, NO time for art, writing, or my regular crafting.  But, all through the month I played with my old crazy quilt designs. So, last week I found a few squares that I started over five years ago, dug out my threads and ribbons, and took up the needle once again. I forgot how satisfying it is!

This first block... I didn't like so much. Where you see the brown velvet with pieces of lace... that was a shocking pink satin, really way too bright. So I dismantled a Christmas stocking and pieced in some darker browns. I'll probably add some more flowers and such.

 This block was partially done. Watching the 49ers on Sunday, I appliqued some dyed lace pieces, then did all the flower work. Remembering the stitches is one thing, coordinating my fingers is another!

 Here's a close up...

 Ah... then I remembered how to do the cabbage roses...

 I love French knots since they are so easy to do. Not so sure about my 'lazy daisy'... spacing petals, four or five... guess it doesn't really matter... it's what feels right, right?

 So, yesterday I sewed together two more foundational blocks. I like crazy quilts with deep, saturated colors. I've added both new and vintage laces.

 The lace and doily below was part of another old block (of a different size), so I re-pieced it to fit, then dyed two lace appliques to compliment the salmon color. Actually, the lace was one long applique I fussy cut into two. I'm imagining lots of flowers and embroidery all over this.

 Close up of part of the lace applique.

 Years ago I found these in the estate (stash) of an elderly dress maker. I picked up dozens of cards of gimp trim, and also dozens of silk flowers and ribbons. All of these came from about 1918!! You can see the price of the silk ribbon was 1 Cent a yard! I sold most of the ribbons, but still have a few in my stash. I almost don't want to use them... but we all know that's silly.

 Here are some of the ribbons.....

And... I couldn't help capturing a winter's nap.... Lulu is yawning, Molly is snoring.