Pansy: A Victorian Design on a Hair Clip

At the start of every January, I always try to come up with resolutions that will improve the quality of the upcoming year. Of course, it is easiest for me to adhere to the resolutions that are the most appealing. Health and lifestyle choices are go-tos, but it is also important to remember that crafting is not only pleasurable, but also relaxing and rewarding.

This year, I decided to prioritize my needlework. I really love to knit, crochet, and stitch, but I don’t always squeeze it in as often as I would like. I am also planning to embrace learning new things. I find that I do better if I commit myself to making small things, because then I know that I will finish them. I like the idea of little projects as a way to test techniques I have not tried yet (punch needle, perhaps) and to learn something new about techniques I have done before (maybe a new-to-me cast-on).

The PieceWork team has put together some fabulous accessories to warm your evenings in the winter months and to give you enjoyment throughout the year. I think you will find this year’s selection of accessories both charming and satisfying to make. Pick up your needles and get ready to have a fun and productive year!

The Victorians found meaning in every flower, and the pansy was no exception. In their language of flowers, the pansy symbolized remembrance, loving thoughts, and secret love. It was a popular flower and was featured in many pretty nosegays and boutonnieres.

This cross-stitch design was inspired by a design from the 1882 Dictionary of Needlework: An Encyclopedia of Artistic, Plain, and Fancy Needlework by S.F.A. Caulfeild (A.W. Cowan, London) called a Border for Brush and Comb Case. I switched the original center flower for a pansy, because I find them to be so cheerful.

The cross-stitching is rhythmic and relaxing, and the surface embroidery stitches are beginner-friendly. Make one for yourself, or make one as a gift to show your loving thoughts in stitches. It is fun to imagine that someone over one hundred years ago might have stitched this same design as a present for a favorite person.