We have some of Grandma's pillowcases. Years ago, she made them with beautiful pink roses stitched along the edges. Look at the hand crocheted edges. Lovely! My parents have some that Great Grandma made! We all enjoy using them. They fit today's puffy pillows better than those which come in the sheet sets and they represent a lot of loving work. Over the years, our set has developed a few loose spots and I have had to repair the lace edge, but I think it's better to use and enjoy something rather than store it away and have it be forgotten.
A friend of mine recently inspired me to try making my own and she got me started on the project yesterday. Hobby Lobby sells a double-pack of white pillowcases which are stamped and ready to do. Here are mine. They are not nearly as elaborate as the vintage ones. The instruction sheet behind it shows how one's monogram goes above the butterflies and flowers (the sample has a "B"). It will be a lot of work and a long time before I ever even finish one because I'm rusty. I haven't had the opportunity to needlepoint or cross-stitch for a long time, but perhaps I can do a little now and again.
While we were working on it yesterday, I lamented to Wendy that the backside isn't very pretty. It shows random threads, occasional knots and tucked ends. She agreed, but went on to tell me what someone told her. The back of a needlepoint or cross-stitch can be likened to how we see ourselves---full of imperfections. God, however, sees us as the front of the project--perfect and complete.
While we were working on it yesterday, I lamented to Wendy that the backside isn't very pretty. It shows random threads, occasional knots and tucked ends. She agreed, but went on to tell me what someone told her. The back of a needlepoint or cross-stitch can be likened to how we see ourselves---full of imperfections. God, however, sees us as the front of the project--perfect and complete.