Useful nostalgia

My excuse is that I was born a nostalgic. I have always been fascinated by all things old. I used tSterling silver thimble with engravingso think that the proper way to preserve old items was to place them on display or pack for storage. Today my most precious and useful handicraft accessories are decades old and have been used by my ancestors.

My mom allowed me to start using sewing machine when I turned five. Before that I had already started to hand stitch trying to create clothes for my dolls. I had a habit of choosing way too big needle and couldn't push it through the fabric. My mom used to say that I was sewing with a log. 

Sharp as a needle

Milward best qualityMade in England

After my grandma passed I was given her box of old sewing supplies. Never before had I seen such enchanting artefacts. I was amazed by the quality and feel of the items. Needles and threads, snap fasteners, buttons and brass buckles all organiseSnap fasteners "fabrication française"d in a beautiful metal box and still in mint condition. Only the measuring tape was a bit worn out. 

The finesse of stitching with a small sharp quality needle is something worth experiencing. Tiny brass bucklesThe needle seems to find its way through the fabric without a trace - except the thread. It allows you to sew with exquisite precision. The fabric seems to appreciate the needles as well. 

Gutermann silk threadBut it's not all about the needles. Sewing with good old bear thread or a high-quality silk thread is a luxury worth another blog.

Bear thread on a large wooden spool

In times past these nessecities were absolutely essential to making and taking care of clothing and accessories. Through them I have a better understanding of sustainability and am inspired to pursue lasting quality items.