The Lenten Stole has been received

What a relief to hear that Jann received her stole today and is excited about it as I am.  Here in part is her e-mail... "it is even more beautiful than I imagined!  Strange to say I can't wait until Lent.  Your work is so creative and so spiritual...it just feels sacred.  I thank you so much and I will treasure this for the rest of my life, remembering the beginning of my ordained ministry."

And now, here are images of the finished stole...

The lower edges with the Celtic cross on the front

The two halves at about hip level

The lining with labels

The tri-spiral over the shoulder

Full view, front

Full view, side

Continuing to stitch by machine and hand

Jann suggested a tri spiral at the shoulder, a nod to her Irish heritage. My source of inspiration was the very famous entrance stone at the neolithic site New Grange that Lloyd and I visited in 2012, and where Jann has spent a lot of time.
I decided the best way to create this spiral would be covered cord, and found the perfect grey Thai silk necktie in my collection.

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The easiest way to attach cording is by hand.

Stitching is complete and pressed.

Jann also suggested a Celtic cross on the lower front.

The next task is to line the stole and then it will be ready to ship!