Today, two pieces I bid on last month finally arrived.

The box they came in was far larger and heavier than I expected. I had to laugh at myself as I wrestled it onto the table. What had I bought? Surely two small, framed crewelwork pieces couldn’t possibly fill a box this size.

Opening it felt like unwrapping a mystery. Inside were not dainty dinner plate frames, but two enormous round wooden ones, each about 26 inches across, solid, heavy, and holding the most charming crewel embroidery, both signed with the initials FLO.

I snapped a few photos for reference (as one does when you’re too giddy to properly document anything), then tucked them carefully back into the packing for safekeeping. They’ll wait until I have time to gently clean away the dust and take a closer look at the stitching.

Originally, I imagined they’d hang out in the studio, but with all my windows, there’s hardly a wall left! A quick look around the house tells me the stairwell may be their only hope. We’ll see where they settle eventually, if at all.

For now, I’m simply happy to be their new caretaker. They’re stitched on an old even-weave linen, original designs by the look of them, complete with a squirrel, a few bunnies, and plenty of acorns; my heart couldn’t be happier.

Speaking of wool, I’ve added a few new thread sets to the shop to coordinate with the free holiday ornament design available on the EGA USA website.

And if you haven’t seen it yet, Melanie Smith of Yarn N Threads stitched and finished Mr. Rumpkin beautifully, her work made me smile! There are still a few Mr. Rumpkin kits in the shop, and I’m hoping to introduce a few of his friends soon… if time allows.

Until next time…