Quilty Care Package

Recently I lost my trusty quilt appreciating side kick. I cannot count the hours of companionship as she sat by my side while I sewed.  I will miss her ever so dearly. Here is a picture of her from the first day we got her. She hid inside the pillow cover in the guest bedroom. 

When my mom heard about the news she mailed me a package with all kinds of sewing knick knacks to cheer me up. Most of these things belonged to my grand mother which were passed down to her.

First up this awesome piece of hand embroidered skirt. It is chunky mirror embroidery on a very sturdy canvas like fabric, similar to upholstery weight. I guess back in the day they made outfits based on what would resist the wear and tear of daily life.

This is what it looks like at the back.

There were pieces of some awesome hand woven lace. The colors are just so vibrant. I think these were salvaged off some old sarees.

A box full of sewing thread on wooden spools. I don't think the thread is usable anymore but the colors are to die for. I think they would make great display items in my sewing room.

There was a box full of sewing/tapestry needles of all shapes and sizes. Some odd looking ones that I had no idea what they could be used for. Of the lot what really caught my eye was this package of medical needles for suturing. I guess stitching up a gash was just another household sewing activity or they worked great as embroidery/tapestry needles! 

Last but not the least a bag full of hand carved wooden templates for block printing fabric. These actually belonged to my great great grandmother. So they are probably more than a hundred years old. They are still in decent condition and would love to give them a try.

There were a ton of fabric pieces from old sarees of which this one was my favorite. I just love the color and the gold block print on the fabric. This fabric is still in good condition, most of the other pieces are falling apart. I probably have to do something to preserve them from further damage.

Well the package was a pleasant surprise and I am glad I have some artifacts from my family's sewing past.