Cute Project from Rachel Atienza

I just received this email show and tell from Rachel and wanted to share it with all of you!  I thought it was special because so many of us tend to lean towards the neutral linens and I LOVED the bright colors in this one.  I also loved all the little unusual details she added to the tiny center grid, the double rectangle circle and the flourishes in the feathers.  Beautifully done Rachel!!!!  Hugs, Cindy

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This is only a small tray cloth.  I didn't want to start straight into a large table linen and this was ideal.  I wasn't too keen on the bright hand embroidery around the edges to start with and thought it wouldn't be the end of the world if I made a complete mess of it.  In the end I think the whole thing has really come alive and I'm very pleased with my first foray into this addictive technique. 

I used various threads as you suggest for different areas of the work and used wool batting for the first time.  I also invested in some of the Cherrywood fabric for the underlayment and like the fabric very much. 

All the while I was working I kept thinking of the original maker, and how sad that this piece which had been made with such care, was unloved and just sold for pennies at a car-boot sale.   I wish I knew who she was...I hope I have done justice to the maker, carefully stitching around her hand stitches as you suggest. 

Kind Regards,

Rachel  Atienza