This small gem from Carriage House was a must stitch when I first saw it! On the pattern Kathy had it framed in a cool frame that she had written Ashes to Ashes, Dust to Dust. However, try as I might I could not track down that particular frame.... so here is where we have to change direction, forget what we liked so much about the original and try to come up with something new that will also complement the piece.I decided that a tombstone shape was fitting. Make a pillow, where the top edge of the pillow mimics the stitched tombstone. So how do you make the pattern?
The most indispensable item to my finishing is the copy machine. Make a copy or two of your stitched piece then use a pencil and draw in the borders and draw the arched top of the tombstone. To make sure that the arch is equal on both sides fold picture in half lengthwise and cut on the pencil line. There is your pattern. Remember that your pencil line will be you stitching line when sewing the piece together. You will trace this pattern on the back side of your stitching.
I still wanted to incorporate the saying "Ashes to Ashes, Dust to Dust" so I took a piece of stained muslin and wrote the saying on it with permanent marker. I sewed this strip in between two pieces of walnut dyed velveteen. Now center your paper pattern on the back of the fabric and trace, this will be your sewing line. Pin the front (stitched piece) and back (muslin and velveteen) together lining up your stitching lines and sew on pencil line, being sure to leave an opening on the bottom for stuffing.
The last step is stuffing. There are lots of options, fiber fill, sawdust, wool roving, raw cotton, balsam, lavender. On this small piece I choose to fill it with whole cloves. Take the leap and begin your adaptation of your favorite piece enjoy the process, let your imagination run wild you will be pleased.
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