When my grandmother was moved into a nursing home she left behind dozens of embroidered tablecloths, napkins and doilies. I was the only person in my family who wanted them – the others found them ‘fussy’ and wondered when I’d ever use embroidered napkins. On the contrary, I use the pieces from my grandmother’s collection all the time, particularly the doilies.
When I stumbled across Katharine O’Hara’s exquisite embroidery, I immediately saw that her fine work was extra special. Not only does she create tiny embroidered lockets, necklaces and brooches but she also makes customised embroidered doilies.
Sweet little faces and hair and clothing to represent your child, these gorgeous doilies are clearly too lovely to be hidden underneath a vase or the like. The idea of framing them is spot on – they make a stunning alternative to a photograph or a painting.
Buy embroidered jewellery directly from Alfalfa – prices begin at $18. Prices for a customised, framed doily begin at about $150. Contact Katharine directly to commission an embroidered doily.
One Comment
I just love these. They’re not only heirloom pieces but it’s the cultivation of an art that has the potential to be lost as people move away from hand-made. Both things = these are just beautiful!