"Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful" - William Morris
This quote at the beginning of Cassanda Ellis' new book sets the tone for the majestic practicality of Cloth. Personal anecdotes as well as condensed histories of linen, cotton, silk, wool, and hide give a refreshing look at natural fibers. The projects are unique and not only place heavy value on the materials, but use them to create a story behind each object.
Working at Verb has inspired me to think about where the fibers and textiles I knit and sew with come from and how choosing local, sustainable, and organic options lessens the historically problematic impact they have on the environment. To see all of these intersect is an inspiration. To see all of them intersect to create something beautiful is breathtaking. The color palette of the book and the photography warrant some serious swooning.
At Verb we have a variety of linen, cotton, silk, and wool to make many of the projects in Cloth. One of the first ones in the book is a Liberty Print Pillow, which is a perfect opportunity for beginning sewists to work with the luxurious Tana Lawn in a simple project. Pick your favorite Liberty print to use for both sides of your pillow, or mix and match to create your own combination of colors and designs!
I'm eager to pore over a copy of my own. I can't wait to take in the stories, the histories, and the photos of Cloth.
-Mckenzie