A little box to embellish
I can’t remember where I got this little box – probably eBay – but it was so long ago, I don’t remember what I had in mind, if anything. It’s about five inches by two inches.
I found it again, and decided it was about time I came up with something to do with it.
This is a bit of carved stonework I photographed in Lisbon. I should warn you that the finished piece is probably going to be really very unlike this inspiration, because, if you look at the rough ideas below, you will see it is already wandering. And when I started thinking about it, it was going to be surface embroidery, and now I’m thinking about silk purl and wire purl.
I think the ribbon things are going to change somewhat as well, although I’m not sure quite how..
In other news, Episode 33 of Slow TV Stitchery is now live, in which the penultimate corner is completed, and the contents of Autumn’s book stash is discussed.
I rather like the more pointed horizontal petals that you looked at then decided against. I think they give reason for the long ribbons that look like bull’s horns at the moment!
This will be an interesting project, the design is looking very elegant. Boxes are fascinating, you’ve made me want to decorate one now!
A goldwork design sounds perfect for such a smart little box. I really ought to think about doing the wooden box that I have. It has been patiently waiting for the last umpteen years.
A very tiny box! I’m sure you will discover the right approach.
Liking it so far!
Stumpwork, gold work and motifs made out of silk purl are perfect for boxes. This box is small enough to be a nice little project. Looking forward to your progress.
You havnt wandered too far just yet. I am interested in the writing on the front of the box which I cant quite read? xx
It’s going to be so pretty!
A lovely idea, and as the box looks to be from Sajou, how very appropriate. I have a small box with a little bit of needlepoint I stitched for my aunt many years ago (the box made by my then husband) and it makes me smile whenever I look at it. I love the idea of boxes with embroidery, and totally embroidered boxes; on my list of to do things (with inspirational instruction on the bookshelves of course).
I do agree with Mam above re design; the pointed ends to the horizontal petals make a lovely echoing negative space with the ribbons, the two flow together. Colour wise, the deep green would look lovely against the golden colour of the box, but you may have moved beyond that by now.
Hope the final corner is going well 🙂
Love watching how your projects develop, the designs you choose and the threads and stitches you use. I too have a wooden box awaiting some embroidery, so I will join the others waiting to be inspired.
I do love boxes. I must be related to a cat! Will love to see what you do with this.