Embroidery ~ Relaxing and Fun

I am reading the diaries from pioneer women who crossed the U.S. in the 1800's and it's been interesting and amazing.  Many women took extra needles and thread with them and traded with Indians for food.  Embroidery work, on hankies and other items were also given as gifts.  In my quest to embroider, learn more, and improve my skills, I have completed several projects.  Here are photos of my progress so far:

Here is my first embroidery sampler (posted before)

Here is a pattern I embroidered on a bread cloth, and the other was a store purchased pattern that I placed into a thrift store frame.  The bread cloth will be duplicated this summer for gift giving.

Here is a set of cloth, kitchen napkins.

This is my most recent project.  It is a pattern I traced onto a hankie, and sewed scrap beads to each corner.   I found this project, and printable pattern on-line.  Visit Martha Stewart's Web site, for the instructions and the patterns.  These are drink covers, and are fun gifts to make.  You could even embroider initials for an wedding party that is having an outdoor reception.  These are nice to have during summer, to cover a pitcher of iced tea or lemonade also.

I have started embroidering pillow cases for the kids hope chests, and have aprons to finish.  Towels are on the list as well.


I need to spend as much time writing as I do with my embroidery - ha ha ha!