The second of my Marigold devotions is yet another stitchery.


After printing my embroidery pattern on a sheet of transfer paper, I machine-sewed a simple muslin pouch and spoon-filled it with dried Mexican Marigold flowers. I didn’t fuss too much about the sizes of things; I didn’t even measure the rotary-cut muslin or Osnaburg fabric swatches. I whip-stitched the small opening of the pouch and got straight to the embroidery work, which, after all, is what I was most looking forward to. I chose three colors of silk thread by French maker Au Ver à Soie, which I’d been wanting to try for some time. The colors are vibrant and I like the shiny sheen of the silk thread. I’ll definitely use it again.


Like when I was working on the first of my Marigold devotions, I had a lot of intense thoughts going through my mind when I planned and began this project. On the day I sewed the sachet and filled it with Marigold petals, I had just cleaned and freshened up my studio. I had been home by myself all day, my favorite band Stars was playing, late afternoon sunshine flooded the room, and a light, pleasant breeze was blowing through an open window. I found myself humming and singing quietly and realized that I felt lighter than I’d felt for some time. It made me remember how important it is to give myself what I need when I really need it. I know what I enjoy best, and I know what things make me feel better. It’s important to give yourself those things, especially if you’re going through a time of struggle. And so, sitting in my studio, working on my project, half-smiling and drinking tea, I felt content and restored.
This is the second of my Marigold devotions.
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Over the following weekend, I spent a great deal more time in my studio reorganizing and moving things around. I added a few green plants and bought myself a gorgeous vintage sewing table.
There’s a lot of value in making a workspace for yourself that’s aesthetically pleasing, personal and comfortable for you to work in, and conducive to efficient and quick set up and clean up. 🖤
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By the by, I finished the stitching on my first Marigold project. I haven’t quite decided how to finish it, but for the moment, I’m happy to have it pinned up in my studio so I can see it every day. What do you think?
