Appenzell handwork- a treat for the eyes and hands

I am a sucker for lovely handwork- lace making, drawn work, shadow work, delicate embroidery, and if it is on a handkerchief, even better. (If words like "drawn work" are foreign and you didn't think people actually made lace, please read on!) This weekend, I stumbled upon a collection of lovely handkerchief- 32 to be exact. Obviously the previous owner like lovely handwork as much as I do.

Though I appreciate the effort, skill level, and delicacy of the pieces, I do not always know what to call the style of the work. Today's stash was an education. The handwork word of the day is Appenzell.














Appenzell handwork comes from the region at the base of the Alps in Switzerland. The pieces you see most often is handkerchiefs from the 18th and 19th centuries.







The hallmarks of the pieces are Swiss batiste linen base fabric with linen threads used in the drawn work. Typically there is drawn work around the parameter as well as drawn work patterns on the inside. Also you will find satin stitch embroidery and shadow work with a small piece, like a handkerchief, will have the fancy work on every corner. These handkerchiefs were designed to be used by a bride with the more elaborate pieces are tablecloths and napkins.

Before and After- the linen chair furniture flip

Lovely linen chair with contemporary carved cabriolet legs, Queen Anne foot, and pretty nailhead detail. Detail image.

Nothing says comfort to me like linen- love it in clothing and furnishings. Nothing says dated like bargello Herculon- the king of industrial strength acrylic fabric... enjoyed by those who like the 1970's, itching, and fabrics that basically wipe clean. Ovbiously, I'm not a fan of the ol' Herculon.

Before with a kind of bargello- diamond herculon upholstery. Detail image.

Before chair

However, I found this Herculon-tastic chair with great lines, good wood, and it was sturdy.


So, after purchasing it and thinking about it for a few months, I decide to leave the wood natural and add a simple neutral linen upholstery fabric.



Then I found this fantastic Union Jack linen pillow and my decision was made. Off to the upholsterer we went!




She's a beauty!

After chair, now available at Interiors and Antiques in Vestavia.

Silver fabrics to shine at home

Inspiration can come from many sources- the silver screen, great jewelry, your new mirrored Ray-Bans. Today I am offered up a collection of fantastic fabrics with a dash of shiny silver for your inspiration.  They are great options for a neutral space. By playing well with greys, yet contrasting, they will add a glint and a wink to a space.

I particularly like the linens with a screen printed silver damask patterns! The collection includes linens to silks, vinyl to velvets, printed to embroidered from maker Vervain to Duralee. If you are interested in more information or yardage any of these fabrics, let me know!