Sunday, September 30, 2018

Saving memories - remembering grandma

 Have you ever wanted to freeze something in time? Moments like when your baby wraps his arm around your necks and asks : Mamma am I your best friend? Or the letter from your parents when you were feeling lonely in a new city? I wish there was a way to re-play those moments. Sometimes memories are like warm blankets, of love, kindness and warmth.

Few months back I came across an old family trunk and was sweetly surprised by the heirloom inside. I looked at the embroidery works made by my mother-in-law and the other ladies of the house. White work embroidery seems very intricate and I admire the patience and diligence that goes in the process. I also have the embroidery hook and the scissors used by my mother -in-law.

Have you ever wondered to give life to an embroidery in a new way? I wanted to preserve and showcase the works made by my grand mother-in-law. Memory box is a delightful way to store family heirloom and pass on to the next generation. I got this memory box from Michaels.



But as I was framing the embroidery I thought I could add another dimension to the story by adding a background element. What if, if I conjure the lady who created these pieces? A simple cardboard cut out of a woman, some poster color, a tiny - weeny piece of fabric and some embroidery set the stage.The idea of making small figures to depict the real life came from Krishnanagar dolls.  Since this summer my mother was with me, she helped to draw the figure and paint it.



I treasure the work of my mother and grand mothers. My paternal grandmother ( Amma)  made quilts not only for me, but for my dolls as well! Some of those quilts are tattered and well worn while others are in perfect condition. My mother taught me to sew when I was around 10 years old. The love for fabric and thread has never dwindled ever since then. 

What is your happiest memory with your grandparents?