June 2012

Alterations are the largest sector of what makes up Katherine's Design and Alterations.  That being said, when I get a creative design project from a client, it confirms the reason the business was started in the first place, that is, as an outlet for creativity and joy.  
     This spring, a client brought me her mother's wedding gown to create an heirloom piece for her twin sons' baptism.  The expense of baptismal gowns prompted us to think of making a blanket for each son using parts from the original wedding gown.  The photo above is the finished product.  I was able to cut off all the lace from the gown and the veil to use on a white bridal satin left over from another job and backed it with a white flannel.  Using the lace I bordered each blanket with the veil lace and had only three inches to spare!  Whew!  I then used the lace that was on the organza sleeves and on the center front of the bodice to add on a diagonal, and used one of the satin ribbon ties on each blanket.  In order to differentiate one blanket from the other, I embroidered the child's name and baptismal date on the back flannel corner.  
    I received a phone call from the grandmother of the twins last week expressing her great satisfaction and joy at seeing the two blankets.  She said she received many compliments from her friends and relatives at what a wonderful idea to have the blankets made and the beautiful craftsmanship.  (her words, not mine)  

Embroidery on back side

  You would be amazed at the amount of time it took to design and construct them.  I thought it might take 1 1/2 to 2 hours each, but it ended up more like 4 hours each!  Definitely a labor of love for the art.  I hope you enjoy seeing them and that it prompts you to re-purpose something YOU have in your wardrobe!