Boutis
Whole cloth quilts from the Provence region of France. Boutis, meaning “stuffing” is a variation on the 17th century matelasse quilting style. Rather than placing a sheet of batting between two layers of fabric, these quilts are made by quilting two pieces of fabric together, then stuffing with wool yarns and roving using a special needle. Nowadays, boutis quilters use more modern doll needles, but the technique is the same.
The result is a warm, wool filled quilt that celebrates the quilting pattern and the beautiful uncut fabrics.
Goose Feather Trees
In the mid-19th century decorated Christmas trees had become extremely popular. Industrious Germans gathered plentiful goose feathers, wiring them together to imitate branches. The branches were inserted into the drilled holes of a dowel, which acted as the tree’s trunk. Often, the feathers were dyed green, but some trees were left white.
The trees resemble the Balsam Fir, popular in New England and Canada, with it’s wide-spread, slender branches making them ideal for displaying cherished ornaments.
Wycinanki
Papercutting is a popular folk art found in many cultures. In Germany, it is called scherenschnitte, in Poland, wycinanki. Traditional motifs include birds, hearts, and flowers – all symbols of hope, love and joy. We sometimes see figural cuttings of people, intricate edges, and even messages cut into paper. Wycinanki is often coloured with pastels or paint, reflecting the Polish love of bright colours.
In the west, papercuttings consist most commonly of paper snowflakes and strings of paper dolls.
Fleur de Lys Gold
This beautiful pattern by Spode has been in continuous production since 1852. It’s lovely fluted shape (called Chelsea) lends a feminine air to the table. The gold and white pattern mixes well with other collected pieces of vintage as well as new china. A single teapot can make any afternoon respite truly special.
Paper Toys
These charming paper toys are fun for children and adults alike to print, cut, and assemble when the snow is falling thick on the ground. These sweet little bears are pushing a train cart, which can be used to hold small sweet treats for a snacktime surprise, or special little trinket.
Where to Buy:
Antique Linens (including fine examples of boutis) – www.emsheart.com
Goose Feather Trees – www.feathertreekits.com
papercutting patterns – www.papercuttingsbyalison.com
Fleur de Lys China – www.replacements.com
Paper Toys – www.thetoymaker.com
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