This year, I am making blocks using Flower Fairy Fabrics (a Michael Miller fabric) with images by that renowned artist, Mary Cicely Barker. I'm also an herbalist. When I can blend my two loves together, it's a good thing.
This year, Elderberry is Herb of the Year. I had the elderberry print from the fabric line, so, it seemed a natural for the January block. All the work is by hand. Even the beaded fringe at the bottom, which I had made years ago and had waiting for the perfect project. Because elderberries are often found in hedgerows in England (I lived there for four years), I wrote Hedgerow Magic on twill tape and added it below the fringe. Elderberry is exceptional medicine - every year I make elderberry syrup, elderberry tincture and sometimes, elderberry glycerite. And, of course, elderberry pie! Often, elderberry chutney makes it way to the table. I make elderflower syrup and fritters as well.
The fairies wings were stitched #4 braid. The leaves are silk ribbon and silk chenille with silk floss for veining. The elderberries are size 6/0 beads.
