In celebration of May Day, I'm featuring this lovely, linen hand towel appliqued with a "May Basket." It was a gift from my friend, Karen. We have been exploring antique shops and flea markets the world over. Fortunately our tastes tend towards different eras so we don't arm wrestle over much!
The vintage towel is crisp, bright white linen with the applique created from a simple cotton, neatly hemmed and beautifully hand stitched into place. Looks to be vintage 60's. It is a labor of love and adds a fresh feeling of spring to the powder room.
That was to be my May Basket until I, quite literally, happened upon the real thing while enjoying the First Friday Art Walk in Portland, Maine http://mainemorningreport.blogspot.com/
Walking from gallery to gallery, I was explaining to my friend the celebration of May Day,the of making May Baskets and hanging them on doors of those we cherish. No sooner had I finished speaking and there, walking towards us, was a couple with the lady carrying a May Basket. 
"She's carrying a May Basket, " I exclaimed! They stopped, we stopped and a discussion of our mutual passion for the charm and civility surrounding the tradition of May Baskets ensued. And so, that is how I came to possess a May Basket, this May Day 2009.
"She's carrying a May Basket, " I exclaimed! They stopped, we stopped and a discussion of our mutual passion for the charm and civility surrounding the tradition of May Baskets ensued. And so, that is how I came to possess a May Basket, this May Day 2009.
Madeline and May Basket maker, Jennifer Libby-Barnes. Jennifer makes party and wedding favors and LOTS of May Baskets. Jen@JenniferSmells.com
Make a note to charm someone with a May Basket next May Day...linen, pottery, or the real thing made of tissue paper and love.
Wonderful blog, Madeline, and such a pleasure meeting you!I will be sure to read your future blogs!I wanted to mention...for anyone looking for these baskets for party, bridal, baby showers favors you can certainly contact me but they are also sold at The Paper Patch on Exchange Street in the Old Port and at Ferdinand on the Eastern Prom!
ReplyDeleteI am quite behind and need an update but I also have a blog! check it out sometime, won't you? www.haveasuperday.blogspot.com
Thanks a bunch Madeline! Jen