we travel

Mysterese folds a small satchel into my out- stretched palm, and says, "These reminded me of you," and as I grip the tiny tokens in my hands, they begin to cast a sort of serendipitous spell. I realize that, while it is difficult to say goodbye, much joy and hope is felt knowing that the paths we all travel will once again cross, and that new adventures are sure to bring happiness, content- ment, and unimaginable growth...

I, too, am so lucky and excited for a new adventure. Please check here in the coming months to see some glimpses of my recent work/play, along with the work of my talented colleagues/partners-in-crime.

(Maps courtesy of Hammond's Illustrated Atlas for Young America, via the MCAD library. Buttons courtesy of T.)

the makings of me

Try to improvise, make without over-thinking, think about making, make something out of nothing. And, repeat. 

A constant busying of the fingers is substantially therapeutic, and sometimes beautiful things can happen through fortuitous encounters with paper scraps and office supplies. 

needles and pins

A recent find: Lion pincushion, complete with dainty little scissors that turn into eyeglasses and a tape measure tail. Ingenious I'd say.
Some discoveries from the top secret stacks at the Minneapolis Central Public Library. A rainy day at the library last Wednesday was certainly a bright spot in a weary week...

I do enjoy a good grid. And also this bonnet and matching mittens. Quite fresh.

And just in time for the holiday season: A potpourri of wonderful and bazaar gift ideas! 

And! Before the Searchers, before Tom Petty, before Johnny, Joey, & DeeDee Ramone...there was Jackie DeShannon. And still it begins, needles & pins.

whawhawhawhawhawhy?

Why didn't i make this? Needlepointed rubik's cubes and dancing coconuts, ladies & gentlemen! One day I do aspire to be this nimble with a thimble. 

adventures in nebraskaland

Album/sampler quilt, c. 1860-70, Auburn IL

Birds in Air by Salome Thorpe, c. 1885, Westport CT

Next time you find yourself in lovely Lincoln, NE be sure to check out the tremendous textiles at the International Quilt Study Center & Museum, featuring the world's largest publicly held collection of quilts from more than 20 countries. Such an inspiring array of true craft skill, history, tradition, and experimentation.

And, next time you find yourself near a pasture, make a four-hoofed friend! Special thanks to Sailor–such a handsome Morgan you are–and especially thanks to cousin Kate.

over the rivers and through the woods

To my granny's house I go! I'm off on a cross-country road trip to the land of pioneers, cattle, and corn, to spend quality time with the lovely ladies above. Granny Marjorie + my mother + five aunts + many cousins and second cousins = the Schroeder girl legacy lives on! 

ºººEmbroidered pillowcases courtesy of my late Great Granny Pauline...Perhaps my busy fingers were inheritedººº