Melitastitches4fun's Blog

Once I got into the rhythm of the Queen stitch, it moved along nicely. And, I am getting used to using a magnifying glass. Although, it does get warm being that close to the light. Glad I have a fan & AC. I have to give my 51 year old eyes a break though!

I also find the chart is aligned to threads more than holes. So, I have not figured out how to count to the next flower yet. I think I was tired & will try looking at it again when I am fresher.

Over the past weekend, I enjoyed an afternoon at the Winterthur. The tram took us on a tour of the grounds of the DuPont estate. There are some colors from flowers but the various green plantings are in abundance. The attention to details is amazing. For example, the lights along the walkway (left photo) are functional & ornamental. The reflecting pond (right photo) was originally a pool & the first in the US to be heated. At the far end (right photo), those 3 round grates are covering 3 huge speakers through which the guests could enjoy music as the lounge about the pool!

Moving indoors, nice small groups of 10 were given an hour tour of several rooms in the mansion. Then, we were free to walk the property, through the galleries & browse the Campbell Soup tureen collection. Their textiles are extensive, including samplers, needlepoint wall hangings, quilts, drapes, bathroom towels, chair covers, book covers, table cloths.  Tailor-made tours are available at an extra charge. 

chair and quilt (above)

sampler and table cloth (above)

And, of course, the Plimoth Jacket. It is stunning in person. Kept behind a plexiglass but in the middle of the floor so you can walk all around it. There is a brief video about the making of the jacket. Quite interesting. They even sewed over the seams – such attention to detail.

FYI: Winterthur didn’t mind pictures being taken of anything.

Betsy contacted Winterthur & they said, “You can use your own photos and post on a blog!  Thanks so much for spreading the word, and also thanks so much for asking!”  So, here are her photos of the jacket & a headpiece. Thanks for getting permission Betsy & providing the photos.