I like to call this my magnum opus of craftiness. The one pictured above is the first of two that I have created thus far. It took me 9 months the first time (yes, it is my baby), and approximately 6 months the second time (I estimate I'll be able to get it down to one if I really try).
The idea came from an Urban Outfitters duvet cover that I fell in love with, but was not willing to spend $170 on. This is not a duvet cover, but something much more special and customizable. Not to mention, the UO version is just ink printed on fabric, and does not contain my blood, sweat, tears, and love (jk , but not really...). I incorporated pieces of my mother's old clothes on mine. For the second one, I was asked by the expecting couple (this was for their baby's nursery) to sew in pieces of her wedding dress.
In the past, I have even cut countries out of fabric from that country (Indian fabric from a friend back from her travels, Tajikistani fabric from my Tajik friend, and Dutch fabric from my boyfriend). What I love about mine is not only do the fabrics carry meaning, but I've started to mark of the places I've visited with little dots of thread.
Most of this project stems from my passion for travel and being rich in experiences. I am also--partially against my will--a geography geek. For me, middle school involved an intense geography course which culminated in a final exam which required me to draw the entire world--countries, capitals, etc--and correctly mark everything from memory. That information is still branded on my mind and thus, this is an outlet for my mental receptacle for superfluous information.
I have a lot of fun making these. Choosing fabrics which compliment each other, yet stand out on their own, and piecing continents together. I enjoy looking for fabrics that best reflect the culture of each nation (I always have the most fun making Africa). As you can see, it takes a lot--approximately a mile, or at least that's what it feels like--of thread. Stitching a continent, Africa for example, takes almost two days of constant work.
So whether you are a world traveler, or you just need something to cover the large expanse of blank wall over your bed, in your dining room, or above your mantle, this is the most personal and meaningful piece of art you can commission. I can incorporate a small piece of any special, meaningful, heirloom, or ethnic fabric you possess. If you are one of those people who plan way ahead of time, consider this as a potential Christmas 2016 present for a special someone. Creation time is anywhere between 1-2 months, depending on how personalized you want to make it. You'll be helping out a college student who is beyond desperate to travel.
Ready, set, order here.
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