Grandma

I've told you a little bit about my Grandma, but today I'll make it a real Show and Tell. S and I are visiting her for a few days, so I raided her basement for a few things to photograph. Sorry for the lack of styling; S has been cranky and is ready to return home, I think. She says she misses the cat. So we just laid everything on the carpet and took care of business as quickly as we could.

Grandma studied fashion design in college and worked for a dress manufacturer in Chicago until she got married. She's done a bit of everything: had a radio show, made jewelry, taught crafts on a weekly television program, and travelled all over the world to teach needle arts.

Here is a pillow Grandma wove. And this, by the way, is why someday I will be a weaver. I must make things like this. Must:

In the 1950's, Grandma taught a new project on her television program every week. This is a picnic-type placement, with pockets for utensils. I can't imagine preparing and explaining a project like this so frequently. And I love how this basic concept is still being used in craft books and magazines even today. Nothing like a timeless idea, even if aesthetic tastes change a bit over time, hmm?

Here is a towel for wiping your dog's feet when he comes inside, also from the TV show:

This wasn't from the T.V. program. She purchased an unfinished wood box and made into this fantastic box for playing cards. She distressed it (yes, I really can spell, folks!) by putting it into a bag or box with nails and hardware so it developed this weathered patina. And even the inside of the box is beautifully finished. Don't you love the stained glass on the top? My sister and I have always admired this; it's been the only item on Grandma's coffee table for as long as I can remember.

Shall I show you more? I'll try to take more photos tomorrow; her house if full of amazing hand-made projects that I'd love to share with you.