I would make my hand-crafted pillows and decorative Christmas stockings even if I couldn’t sell them. The work connects me to my past—it was my mother who taught me hand embroidery and sewing when I was a child—and to the fashion and artistry of other eras and faraway places. Vintage kimono fabric from early and mid-twentieth century Japan, jewelry mined from estate sale treasure troves, organic-looking beads discovered on the Internet, feathers and tassels, buttons and ribbons all contribute to the personality and originality of each piece.

I like to think of my pillows and stockings as “living heirlooms” that grace the sofas and beds, doorknobs and walls they adorn with a classic, eclectic touch. The items on this web site are all reflections of my personal fancy, with embellishments that seemed suitable to the particular fabric used in each piece. The beading, quilting, embroidery, stenciling, and sewing details are all lovingly fashioned by my own hand.

I also enjoy helping people bring their own family heirlooms out of the attic and into their everyday living space. Celebrate your individuality with a decorative pillow or stocking made with personal artifacts from your own life story. Or create a special, personal gift for a family member or friend. Email me with your ideas at sdgroth99@aol.com or use the Contact Me form on this web site. Together we can create an item that is as subtle, colorful, intricate, ornate, formal, and distinctive as you please.

Treat yourself or someone you love to a rare, special creation that connects to the past and will delight the spirit for many years to come. It is my pleasure for my work to find a special place in the homes and hearts of people who share my appreciation of finery, originality, and “living” hand-made art.