These are certainly very strange times as we watch the seasons change from our homes. Winter is now a memory and spring is well on the way. Spring is always an uplifting season as it is a time for rebirth. It is also a very busy time as the birds are beginning to nest. The trees and flowers are blossoming. The smell of the first cut of mown grass. This pandemic that is ravaging countries worldwide has made many of us stop to think. We are told to keep safe by staying indoors and distancing ourselves from others. It has also given us an opportunity to get creative. I’m distancing myself and only going out for absolute necessities such as food and an hour for daily exercise. It is during my exercise time whilst I walk the lanes around the house and watch spring blossoming that I post your orders. The rest of my time I’m at home spending long periods in my studio dreaming up new projects for my Dorset Buttons. My latest idea is based on the theme “take one ball of wool”. I set myself the challenge to use one ball of yarn to make Dorset Buttons. The buttons can include the whole range of designs including Birdseye, and High Tops. All will be used in different works until I reach the end of the ball. So far, I have completed one collage piece using tweed patchwork pieces and nearly finished two further pieces; a large 30cm button and a piece based on slow stitching using an old and very warn antimacassar. I still have more yarn to use up so what next? The rest of the yarn may well go in developing something inspired by the Dorset Arts and Crafts Association new Photo Challenge. You find out more about this challenge for their members on DACA website. I hope this terrible time will soon end and you all keep safe. |