I was reading Amy Duncan’s Four Corners Design blog the other day. She took a favorite old t-shirt, stretched it over a canvas and put it in a frame. What a cool way to hang onto a shirt and savor the memories it holds. I can picture a whole row of band or concert shirts framed, for reminiscing the good old days. Framing anything gives it significance and importance. You choose to give it a place of honor on your wall and you share with others its status and beauty.
A few years ago I pulled out my kids baby clothes that I was keeping. I’d washed, ironed, folded, put them in a bag, then tucked them away. Some were 20 years old by now. What’s the point?? I’m not sure the kids would ever want them and leaving these sweet clothes to sit in a bag in the bottom of a drawer gave me no pleasure. I decided to pick out a couple of favorites and frame them.
The little dress was knit by my aunt and cousin. I love the style and color and my daughter wore it for her first birthday photo. The Hawaiian shirt belonged to my son and was given to him after my sister and mom visited Maui. Both outfits are not only sweet in themselves but hold fond memories of the people who gave them to the kids.
There are a variety of ways to attach the clothing. I talked to the guys at the frame store for ideas and suggestions and chose to have them cut a piece of mat board to fit the frame. I laid the piece of clothing on the mat board and arranged it, then from underneath, using a sharp needle and sturdy thread I brought the needle up through the shoulder area, then back down in a very small stitch. I tacked in several places then held up the mat board vertically to see if the clothing was attached firmly enough. It took more stitches than I had figured but I wanted the clothes to lie nice and flat. I love the way they turned out and I get pleasure every time I look at these favorite baby clothes.
I framed one more piece as long as I was at it. I had a very old lace baby bonnet that belonged to my mother. I carefully added a bit of stuffing between layers to enhance the shape and better display the detail. I also added new silk ribbons where ancient tatters had been. What a perfect way to enjoy this treasured keepsake.
Give it a try. Dig around and find a sweet relic from the past. I think it would make a thoughtful Christmas present.
Great idea for our baby girl booties. Better than bronzing, for sure.
Posted by: Cute Baby Girl Outfits | 04/07/2013 at 10:50 PM