My grandmother taught me to crochet when I was 14. I loved it immediately.
Unfortunately, crochet is one of those lovely pursuits that is fading away. And as silly as it sounds, I do it not only because it's enjoyable, but because it's a little piece of the past that I refuse to release.
I'm an old pro at afghans and washcloths, but recently I tried my hand at something that required a little more finesse.
The doily. The classic crochet piece.
It took a bit of time for my fingers to adjust to the tiny hook and tiny thread.
But eventually, some order began to emerge from the tangles.
My grandmother has given me doilies she made as well as some crocheted by her mother. I always imagined the creation falling perfectly from their needles.
Not the case!
Once the doily is complete, you must wash it. This is done by giving it a light handwash (no twisting or pulling!) in mild detergent and warm water, and then gently rolling the piece in a clean towel to remove the excess water without distorting its shape.
Then you must "block" the piece. This is done by unrolling it onto a flat, dry surface and gently shaping it as needed. Then you can enjoy it on the coffee table under an antique vase or on your nightstand by the lamp, just the way the good Lord intended for doilies to be used.
So now, each time you visit your grandmother, and you see a hand-made doily, please always remember....
That it wasn't just crocheted....
Wow! I'm amazed. This is a lost art. So nice that you were able to learn this from your grandmother. Beautiful.
ReplyDeleteWhat a gift!!! I love doily's and use them liberally throughout my house...something you don't see too much these days! My love for them came from my grandmother who gave me many and I will cherish them forever!!!
ReplyDeleteIt truly is a lost art like Tammy said. I think they are so pretty, and I know a friend who has some framed between two panes of glass and pretty silver frames. The paint on the wall really enhances the shapes of the doilies. They are so pretty for decorating!
ReplyDeleteThis is lovely! I just want to comment that crochet is very much alive and there has been an explosion of interest in the last few years. Check out the Ravelry website and you'll see :)
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