More Heirloom Needlework

As I prepared the post for last Friday, I realized just how many examples of the work of my ancestors' hands I have.  I mean, I knew I had these treasures, but through the process I became more aware of the bounty that I have.  So I thought I would share some more with you.  Even while I write this, I realize there are even more pieces I should have included.  Up above is a small crazy quilt I believe was made by my maternal great grandmother.  You can see it has been well loved.

Here is an assortment of embroidery and crochet work.  The blue piece at the back is done with a fine thread; the stitches so delicate and precise.  It's attached to a pillow case, which has a little mildew damage.  I guess I should just cut around the crochet and maybe frame it.  For some reason I hate to remove it from the place it was intended.  To the right of that is another pillowcase, this time embroidered, and then a variety of crochet projects below.  One little baby slipper and a couple bags.  The blue and white striped piece is to put over a lampshade.  The edge on the purple round is turned up, as if maybe this was a jar topper or something.

This beautiful piece of work was done by my mother.  She gave this to me for Christmas in 1986.  I've always been amazed at the precision of the stitches.

And this little lovely I have carried with me since I was a little girl.  Very well loved.  It was worn by my barbies as a skirt, hence the center hole (tsk tsk!)

I know I promised to come back with the matching barbie outfit, but as I was looking for it, I came across so many lovelies that deserve their own post.  So I'll be back with a barbie fashion show and a display of inappropriate dolls at a later date.  I'll make myself a note so I don't forget.

I'm loving all of the comments that have been left, relating your needlework stories.  It seems that most of us did learn from the women in our families, which got me wondering, how many of us are passing this heritage on to our own daughters?  I did try to share with my daughter, but we've always been so impatient with each other.  She does sew and crochet, but I don't believe I can take credit for her learning.  Have you or are you passing on these skills to your daughters?