Monday, January 26, 2009

The Gift of Silk

The gift of silk. Was silk a gift from one of the Magi? If not, then maybe it should have been. The luxury and iridescence of silk is wonderful.

I received some designer samples of silk from my darling niece. When I receive or purchase really extraordinary fabric, my heart beats faster. It really does! The excitement of possibilities is thrilling. I looked at and studied theses samples for quite a while. I touched and caressed and dreamed this lovely fabric that has such an ancient history. Just think of the Silk Road , to know of the romance that it brings to my mind.
The way I approach making a purse is quite a lot like being a sculptor. I study and think. Then I see the answer just as if the fabric is speaking to me. I had three samples of the same fabric design, but in different colors measuring 18"x15". The is design is of embroidered pineapples, all done in complimentary threads. I decided that I needed to combine the fabric in a quilted purse. I cut out each pineapple and had enough for a small purse. I lined the inside with the remaining fabric. I was given a very nice thin chain, long enough to go through the channel twice. It all came out just like a dinner dance purse that you can see in the 1930's movies.

5 comments:

patrice said...

The sheen on that silk is amazing. And I do know what you mean when your heart beats faster and your mind is shuffling through all the possibilities when you are confronted with a new a beautiful fabric. I'm guessing this purse has wonderful pockets on the inside and the details are perfect.

Blue Sky Dreaming said...

This is such a beautiful silk purse. You and I are alike, dreaming of the silk road and you dreaming of what could become of this spetacular fabric. I can't tell from the photo but what are the measurements? This is a keepsake. The "Red Carpet" ladies speak of their dresses, jewelry, shoes and now their purses and this could easily be carried by one of the stars!

Pat said...

Hi Maryann,
I should have included measurement, how else can I give a scope to it. Anyway, the size is
9"x12". It has 3 pockets on the inside. I like a pocket for keys, cell phone and misc. Always handy to have a pocker for misc. Thanks for asking.

beadbabe49 said...

I love your purses...I've got a small collection of silk and other fabric that feels wonderful as well as being in colors and/or patterns I like that I'm just beginning to work with...I love the first steps down a new path!
Also adore the kitties and have a sleek black panther myself as well as our wild child, sumi, the tuxedo cat.
Thanks for your kind comment on my blog, I hope you visit often and I've put you on my blogroll.

Karen L said...

This is a great purse and I must say your skill is evident in the perfect way these gorgeous silk squares connect. Fabric quickens my beat as well!