March 13th 2010

I finished my newest print , Dutch Quilt, late last night. I mentioned it yesterday, and the fact that it deserved a little explanation.

So here it is; I recently started doing a little research into the folk art of the Pennsylvania Dutch, namely "hexes". I've always associated the "hex" with witchcraft and curses, but the hex originated as a symbol for positive things, ie, strength, good luck, etc. They all mean different things, but they're all positive. For example the oak leaf, (pictured above), symbolizes strength and is often associated with "masculine strength". The star, which is pictured in a number of different shapes, as well as wheat sheaves usually symbolize abundance and goodwill.

The Pennsylvania Dutch are also very well known for their intricately hand-stitched quilts, so I wanted to include that in the design, (in the geometric grey floral shapes).

I found learning a little bit about the history of these signs really interesting, and I'm always drawn to the traditional folk art from different places.

Oh! And I nearly forgot! As of Monday morning, I'll have a posting on the Poppytalk Handmade Spring and Easter Market. I'll post a link when all of my work is online!