STATES OF EMBROIDERY
From a small town in North Hungary, the reputation of one modest craft has journeyed from that of a local pick-me-up to an international embellishment. Throughout history, embroidery has been a common practice in rural Hungary and particularly in the town of Mezőkövesd. It was here that Matyó embroidery turned from a simple craft into a movement during the 19th century. It has been growing ever since and now comes to Kirstie Allsopp's The Handmade Fair in London this September.
Matyó embroidery is known for its beautifully decorative style. Traditionally featuring roses, peonies, tulips, buds, birds and hearts, Christina Pengelly is one maker of Hungarian descent who uses this technique to draw on her cultural heritage and share it with craft lovers all over the world – from her home country of Canada to visitors to Kirstie Allsopp’s The Handmade Fair, where you can receive 15% off tickets with the code SELV15.
Vibrant and festive, these decorative felt hearts have long been a popular way to decorate homes throughout the Hungarian countryside and are often found adorning walls and plants. Traditionally, these little hearts were made by artisans in poor areas and were made to add a little cheer to otherwise dark and dreary interiors. Before long their popularity spread, and they became a main source of income for many Hungarian makers.
From the past to the future, fellow embroidery lover Liss Cooke will also be sharing her skills at Kirstie Allsopp’s The Handmade Fair, exhibiting her tropical embroidered necklaces. Based in Nottingham, Liss is a textiles designer and jewellery maker who uses digital embroidery software in the process of making her distinctive designs – a futuristic and binary approach to such a traditional craft, especially compared to Little Hungarian Hearts.
It's clear that embroidery has captured the hearts of craft lovers the world over; from the 19th century hungarian countryside to the computer screens of the UK. There is no doubt that embroidery has staying power – from keepsake to economic staple, to highly coveted accessories in the world of high fashion.
You can make your own Little Hungarian Heart or tropical embroidery necklace at Kirstie Allsopp's The Handmade Fair in London, this September – a fair all about appreciating the beauty of handmade, and learning the skills to become a maker yourself. Renowned makers Cressida Bell, Annie Sloan, Becky John and Rosie Scott will also be taking part in the fair, to name just a few.
Use the code SELV15 to receive 15% off tickets.
The Handmade Fair, 15 - 17 September 2017
The Green at Hampton Court Palace, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU
www.thehandmadefair.com/hampton-court
www.littlehungarianhearts.co.uk