Winter Time Rug Hooking

What a spunky fellow this snowman is with his jaunty bow tie and red hat!
I've been agonizing over the background in this little rug but I think it's going to work out. And, I keep changing my mind about his shoes. Originally, they were black but, of course, with the very dark background, that had to change ....so, gray, brown???
Can I finish this by New Years Eve?
Thank you to Maria Barton (one of my favorite designers) for this lively design.

Vintage Ribbonwork

Years ago I had the good fortune (and the time!) to study antique ribbonwork with Candace Kling, a notable artist who works largely with ribbon and other textiles. While best known for the magnificent floral forms and hats that she creates, Candace has made a study of vintage Victorian ribbonwork. Her teaching methods are detailed and exact. I still use my notebook, filled with measurements and scraps of folded paper, to construct fine fabric ribbonwork to embellish my custom hand sewn curtains.



This simple cocarde, or more precisely, galette, is one of my favorites and is constructed from vintage grosgrain ribbon and embellished with an antique hand- carved mother of pearl button from my collection. I wish there were still mills that would weave ribbon of this quality..... this vintage piece was a dream to work with.

Welcome To My Studio

As I begin this blog, it's a good time to announce the rug hooking gathering that I will be hosting in my studio.....

Beginning in December, 2008, come and join us for a casual hook-in on the last Saturday of every month. Bring your project and your lunch for an afternoon of creativity and companionship in an artistic setting. All levels of experience from novice to expert are welcome. We'll start at 11:00 AM and hook until 3:00 PM. (I'll stay in the studio until 5:00 PM for anyone who wants to shop for wool too!)

Email me to RSVP and for directions to my studio in the Jack London Square District of Oakland, CA.

Contact Marita

Hope you can come!