One of the most popular things that I have ever made was a linen tea towel embroidered with poppy seed heads
They were elegant, washed brilliantly and sold out pretty quickly. When I went back to buy more linen I found that the price had rocketed and the search for alternative European made, reasonably priced linen proved very depressing. Do you know that most "Irish linen" is in fact made in China and then packed in Ireland?
In the end I bit the bullet, accepted that I can't afford to sell these to shops, and bought some more from my original supplier. They are beautiful quality, wash like a dream and I think are a super Christmas present. I haven't that many left and they aren't going to go on the website - but here is a "Buy it now" button for anyone who fancies doing their Christmas washing up in style.
Have you ever thought of using old French sheets? The plain ones are usually about 10 euro and they are either pure linen or 50-50 linen and cotton.
Also French torchon material is now being woven again in Northern France. Generally the material is grey, but I have seen it in cream also. This usually has a stripe down either side of red, blue or white. It would be more expensive than the sheet option though...
Posted by: Penny Peberdy | December 09, 2009 at 09:03 AM
Jane, those tea towels are so splendid, just the right mix of essential purpose and well-observed artistry.
So hoping that you will continue to find good materials to continue producing them.
Cheers! xo
Posted by: frances | December 11, 2009 at 03:12 PM