Tapestree: A journey in knot magic

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Note: This article was originally published by @gritchenwitch on Instagram. To learn about me and my practice, including more info on folk witchcraft, mountain magic, knot work, and hearthcraft, please visit gritchenwitch.com or join my Patreon at patreon.com/gritchenwitch.

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It’s been a while since I’ve shared my oldest (and biggest) piece of knot magic.🪡

This is my tapestree. I started it almost a decade ago (when I was 26) and every design represents an important moment in my life. Since cross stitch is so time-intensive, and I spend a lot of that time focusing on the present moment, it’s like capturing those feelings in cloth. Now, when I look back at any of the designs, it’s like pressing a button for an instant hit of déjà vu.

For example, one of the medallions (towards to bottom right) represents the first fall morning in our new home, and when I look at it, I remember the temperature, how the breeze felt in the kitchen, and how I was totally at peace.

To add to the magic, I also stitch using hair and bits of clothing.

(If you’re interested in starting a similar project, you can find the chart for the base medallion, as well as a bunch of other free patterns, by following the link in my profile.)

Here are my most frequently asked questions:

⤫ What materials do you use?

This project is a 45 ct ivory Graziano linen. If I had to do it over again, I would pick exactly the same linen, I love it so much. Aside from the mixed media, I use a variety of cotton embroidery threads.

⤫ Where do you get your patterns?

I design them myself, mostly using graph paper and colored pencils.

⤫ How often do you add to it?

Sometimes I go nuts and add a few things in a single month. I’ve also gone entire years without adding anything. I make sure not to pressure myself to keep it enjoyable.

⤫ How do you keep it from getting dirty?

I don’t! I’m usually obsessive about keeping my cross stitch clean, but I always remind myself that the tapestree is a living project. It has snags, drops of coffee, sunscreen…they add to the memories.

⤫ How long will you keep going?

Hopefully for as long as I cross stitch! Right now, the linen is less than a quarter full, so I think I should still be able to fit another 30 years.🌿