The past month or so I have been avidly working on designing more French Boutis patterns. Today I published one just in time for Valentine’s Day on my Etsy site.
This French needlework technique is easy to do if you like handwork. Stitching the piece is rather like hand quilting, a small running stitch, on two pieces of batiste. Then the boutis yarn is drawn through the channels by inserting a tapestry needle from the back between the two layers of fabric. Voila!
In my kit I provide the pattern, instructions with photos and finishing technique, the white and pink batiste needed to complete two hearts, a white sun catcher and a pink sachet. Also included are the two needles necessary for stitching and toothpicks needed for stuffing in the tail ends of the yarn cording. Other materials you provide are white and pink thread, a ribbon or cord for finishing, and filling for your sachet.
I am working on about six other designs as well. If you love handwork and would love to try this ancient French Needlework Art, give it a try. There is also a digital pattern available. It’s a small piece, easy to work up quickly…just in time for Valentine’s Day! I also teach French Boutis to anyone interested.
Thank you to my dear French friends, Nicole, who introduced me to this beautiful art nearly 15 years ago with a gift for my newly born granddaughter, to Maggy and Nicole, who have supplied me with lots of books and magazines for inspiration, to Elisabeth, who sent me a piece of her own hand worked Boutis, and last but not least to Elizabeth from Canada at Seams French who shares this passion with me!
Please leave a comment and let me know what you think! (The comment form is at the top of the page under the date)
Stay tuned for more finishing work next time!
Amities, Averyclaire