For those lacemakers who are alone today, Merry Christmas: Our lace community has become rather quiet, and so this moment to thank a couple of our members. In reading the joyful messages from recipients of 2015's Christmas ornament exchange, it occurred to me I must acknowledge - publicly - the American lacemaker in a western state who sent me 3 Romanian point angels for my ceiling-high tree. She might not wish public recognition, but she has been most generous of time and skills. And so, thanks to her for making Christmas in Maine extra special this year. Actually, 4 angel trees are up, and when I sit in the great room, the Romanian point angels are in prominent positions on the ceiling-high tree - all angels (hundreds) from around the world, no lights, no garlands, no icicles. Just angels, and a 3-D Norwegian Hardanger embroidered star on top. The star is in a double-sided technique learned more than 4 decades ago from another Arachne member. She will be reading this on Long Island, and realize how enduring her teaching of embroidery to Manhattan Chapter members of The Embroiderers' Guild of America has been! Under the tree on a plain dark green skirt, in lieu of gifts, are 4 angel-theme music boxes, some tiny vignettes, and a collection of embroidered boxes. I'll try to describe the 3" square 2" high filet (lacis) box. A box shape was made of firm metal wire (about the firmness of wire garment hangers that come from dry cleaners). Needs to be treated to avoid rust. It has been completely over-cast with matching thread after the lace panels were attached. The bottom of the box has a walking dog image! The lid opens, and the top corners have added knotted thread balls (the kind you often see on Italian linens and find among tassel instructions). From a vintage linens shop. If you are newly-alone, it is important to make your own happiness and develop unique ways to celebrate holidays. There is never, here, piles of gifts and more than 2 guests. I send you this as a suggestion for your Christmas tree next year - make and arrange beautiful textile boxes around your tree. It is quite effective and lasting. You will be able to store ornaments in the boxes the rest of the year. Jeri Ames in Maine USA Lace and Embroidery Resource Center
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