Reproduction Tapestries and Wall Hangings

Who doesn't love a good tapestry? Tapestries, or a picture woven into cloth, have been around for centuries - these forms of art are practical coming from many diverse cultures.

The ancient Egyptians would use them to bury the dead. The Greek Empire would line the halls of grand buildings. It wasn't until the Middle Ages where the tapestry became a status symbol, yet were used to insulate. The Lady and the Unicorn series of tapestries are by far the most well known and an example of the most reproduced as tapestries, pillows and framed art. Reproductions allow us to enjoy superb copies of the original work of art for less cost (sometimes cheaper than buying a framed print.) You just have to know where to look!

The Noblemans Way of Life reproduction tapestry that I have hung in our bedroom - this type of scene is called Mille Fleur, meaning a thousand flowers. (For reference, this reproduction cost $200)

I love using tapestries as art in my home to bring an area to life. Being a baller on a budget, you don't have to spend an arm and a leg. With research and patience you can find original tapestries, but you will pay and the scale will be on the smaller side. Typically original tapestries of a popular scene and larger in scale I've seen start at $2,000, whereas you can get a nice reproduction starting at around $200. Many original tapestries are in museums (though even museum house reproductions believe it or not.) Today you can find large reproduction collections of this ancient craft not only as wall art, but other bespoke home accessories such as throw pillows and armchairs. When it comes to wall art you can use vintage material, weavings, antique fabrics, or even plush velvet to dress your walls.

When purchasing reproductions think about the scale, because unlike originals, repros have lesser image quality because the technique is different. For example, when you have a 12' original tapestry that was woven thread-by-thread, then you shrink it down to a 4', the threads are in lower quantity and not as fine – it's the modern day idea of pixelation. Depending the source, the color will be duller than the original. This is something to think about when comparing an original tapestry to a reproduction, and also whether a fine print is more of what you are looking for. Most importantly always do your research.

I've used this 19th century french woven silk damask jacquard original tapestry in my dining room to fill the large walls and to add texture. This tapestry pattern features beautiful women holding a coat of arms with the crown & royal fleur de liz surrounded by scrolling foliage. (For reference, this original tapestry cost $350)

Advantages of tapestries or wall hangings in the home:

• Large wall hangings create a focal point that can help anchor a room or enhance the decor you already have. Think about selecting a tapestry based on the main colors of your room OR start with a unique tapestry then build a room around it based on colors and feeling
• Like in the medieval times, tapestries can add elegance to a room. Knowing the story of your tapestry will be a great conversation starter
• If your not into ornate tapestries see mid century modern, plush velvet, Swedish tapestries
• A tapestry can add warmth and texture to a room
• Tapestries or needlepoint wall hangings can also be used as a rug or decorative throw
• Need a headboard, use a tapestry behind your bed

Tapestries and wall hangings come in all various sizes and styles – I'm personally drawn to the more intricate designs that feature medieval scenes of knights and everyday life in the millefleurs style. How about you?

When I purchased this reproduction needpoint tapestry, from Anastacias Antiques, I didn't realize my walls were a bit short for this massive piece of art. I improvised and decided to use it as a floor rug in my dining room. (For a reference point, this particular reproduction due to its condition, the cost was $300)

Here are some additional resources on where to purchase tapestries online:

Reproductions:

Mille Fleurs Tapestries / Design Toscano / The Tapestry House / Reproduction tapestries on ebay

Originals:

Mansour / Antique tapestries on ebay

Mixture of antique, vintage and reproductions:

Etsy 

When purchasing online always be sure to read the fine print to make sure you are getting what you are paying for - there is a difference between vintage, antique and reproduction. Sometimes many reproductions are 30-40 years old (which would make them vintage.)

To draw the eye up the wall and connect my bedding to my DIY bed canopy, I decided to use a vintage 1970s plush red floral bedspread to fill the space. I also used an antique 1800s ecclesiastical french altar banner hanging from the ceiling to anchor as a focal point. My grandmother's lace curtains add extra softness that flow down to the floor. This is an example of an unexpected way to use tapestries and wall hangings. 

Learn more about symbolism seen the medieval tapestries:

The Unicorn Tapestries »

The Lady and the Unicorn symbols »

The Fruits and Nuts of the Unicorn Tapestries »

Symbolism of Animals and Birds » (Not particularly about tapestries, but more symbols found in churches)

French Silk Screened Tapestry Bathsheba at the Palace 16th Century Style Unused Serigraph Wall Hanging

1960s Rare Swedish Vintage wall hanging tapestry with an ancient Roman motif in blue, black and white.

1950's Greek wool bedspread that is used as a rug.

Floral Still Life Painting Tapestry is really grand and elegant

Beauty And The Beast Wall Tapestry Wall Hanging that is a mix of Moroccan and Egyptian 

This minimalistic modern fiber art tapestry is in absolute contrast to ornate medieval tapestries. 

French Millefleurs Tapestry The Dancer Silk Screened a Louvre Museum Reproduction

Old Suzani Red And Black Tapestry Bedspread

William Morris Needlepoint Tapestry Pillow - a different take on the traditional tapestry

I love how this vintage mid century modern velvet wall hanging is used across this bed! 

Vintage Plush Cotton Tapestry with deer is used in an unexpected way over a chair

Want something more mod? How about this Mid-century vintage wall tapestry from the 1960-1970s?

BURIED TREASURE Finds

One of my all time favorite things is searching for buried treasure, whether be antique stores, flea markets or my grandmother's attic! Once again I blew my money on junk or what I like to call Buried Treasure (and you wonder why I can't save for a house). Recently I've been in the organizing mode and realized that I was short on the odd and unusal; so where did I turn to: the Newcastle Farmer's Market.

The usuals were there; but a new face, a new horder and a place of glorious treasure. I spent about a half an hour at this man's table, he was a spanish man and looked as if he traveled the lonely roads like a gunslinger in search of rare finds. He had a collection of strange pieces in cases all hand picked by him, I was just in awe of his collections. He was an avid collector of antique religious medals like me, and had odd emblems, keys and a Victorian wooden cross that I wanted so bad. By the end of the day I came away with many new pieces; I can't wait to bring them to my shop all dolled up to adorn your neck, earrings or wrist.

Two brass lion head knocker drawer pulls, two vintage brass guards keys, brass pendant, petite bourbon liquor tag, vintage enamel deer brooch, rhinestone enamel and glass beads, miniature rope pulley, empty bullet shell, bullet pendant, royal emblem drawer pull, pocket watch, train whistle, stork snips, two pocket knives, vintage comb, 20 religious medals and rosary, petite chandelier spikes, plus much more.

BURIED TREASURE IDEAS: Fawn Sweet Heart!

I love the outdoors and wish I was an animal myself, with retro vintage and up-cycling ideas you can bring the woodlands into your home or create an adorable ensemble. There is nothing cutter than big eyed fawns; more and more woodland animals have become all the rage, ranging from owls, birds, bunnies and squirrels. And who cannot forget Bambi, here are four finds that will have you saying "Oh, DEER"!

R E T R O   F I N D S:

1) One of my favorite things to do on etsy is perusse through the vintage section, there is never a time where I don't find something I want to buy. Today I found this adorable Vintage 1950s Deer Lamp Shade from Coming Up Roses, wouldn't this lamp shade go perfectly in a woodland themed child's room? Imagine miniature statues of animals all lined on a shelf and embroidered blankets with feathers and a sneaky fox. You can build a room, just by  having one retro find to stir up some ideas.

2) Sweet and spicy: these Vintage Wooden Deer and Mouse Salt and Pepper Shakers from Cozy Studio, are just so darn cute. Right out of the 1950s, this pair would go perfectly in a collection of other S&P shakers or even on top of your bistro table welcoming you every morning.

D E E R I N G   A C C E S S O R I E S:

~ 3) Revamp the old and put your very own spin on a retro find, that is why I love this Up-cycled red Vintage Quilted Cluth / Purse With Black Doe from Get Red Set Clutch. You can find the cutest silhouetted animals for every gal, ranging from bold red to twinkling silver. Do you have a simple accessory at home, you can jazz it up by adding a darling brooch or even be creative by doodling silly words or your own woodland scene.

~ 4) This one-of-a-kind Black Fawn in the Forest Necklace from Shup (G), is truly unique, from an ordinary wooden animal to a new painted bold and bright delicate fawn. The fawn sits amongst white lace flowers and a hint of sparkle. Bring out the kid in you with your creations, try using vintage miniature toys to make a necklace or fabulous key chain, how about a black plastic horse matched with a red silk ribbon?

I hope you've enjoyed these Fawn Sweet Heart ideas, you these ideas or if you have any ideas of your own, don't be shy we'd love to hear them! Stay tuned next time for more Buried Treasure Ideas!

Buried Treasure Ideas: TIDY UP!

The task of organizing always takes me much longer than expected, but for some reason I love sorting through my finds over the years! But where do you put it all? I have numerous plastic organizers, filled with all kinds of mixtures from beads, chains, ribbon and pendants, but they never all seem to fit in one place. On my travels, I'm always looking for the next best thing for my ever growing collection. Jewelry cases can be a little expensive, but using vintage finds can add some whimsy to your little studio space, I like to find things around the home or at flea markets too. Here are some cute and helpful ways to tidy up!

O N  T H E  G O:

~ 1) For the gal who loves to bring along her crafts, especially hanging with the guys on game night or to meet up with other crafters, these Pink Vintage Style Suitcases from Nana Company are just the thing, whether your bringing knitting or jewelry supplies, you have a size for any occasion and did I mention they are super cute with a rockabilly personality.

~ 2) One of my favorite travel buddies is this small Plano Magnum tackle box, this is the perfect size for head/eye pins and the bottom side opens for more hidden storage. This past weekend I picked up this Plano Soft Tackle Bag, it holds four large organizers and has pockets, perfect for pliers and things. You might even already one around the house, just ask ole pops or your hubby.

T I D Y    U P:

~ 3) So we have traveling down, but what about at home? Storage so helpful around the studio, especially when you have a lot of everything, many storage boxes can be very boring, how about a little bit of retro flare with this Vintage Ransburg Canister Set from Blue Kitty Co. This trio is perfect for pencils or ribbon. I am a big fan of using vintage tins and even chocolate boxes. Other swell ideas are baby food jar or antique masons jars.

~ 4) These peachy keen Set of Three Plastic Trays from Cut From the Same Cloth, are quite universal for any crafter. I can already see tiny beads, thread and even baby buttons all lined up in a row. These trays are truly charming and can add lovely color to any room.

How do you tidy up?

From up-cycling to mess free, there are truly so many ways to organize your personal space, we'd love to read how you do it!

BURIED TREASURE Ideas: Secret Garden Ornaments

When I was little, I always dreamt of a far away place enchanted by nature and my own little secrets. In reality, this surreal place never came true, but I always ventured to my father's house for the next best thing. I had cherished the finer things in life, like my clubhouse and mud pies. All are just memories now and days but I often get reminded by relics I find here and there. Today's Buried Treasure Ideas are an ode to little girls everywhere, especially the ones who dreamt of secret gardens. Here are some lovely ideas you can use to create your very own enchanted adornment.

~ VINTAGE FINDS: Last weekend, I attended the Intergalactic Bead Show that comes around a couple times a year, despite all the lovely things I found, I went way over budget as usual. On a good note, check out this unusual vintage brass key I snagged that folds open. Skeleton keys are so mysterious, where did they come from, what did they unlock? Inspired by spring, I also picked up these beautiful assortment of glass beads, I can't wait to use these for earrings, especially the pink ones.

I D E A S   T O   M A K E   S O M E T H I N G   N E W:

~ FRESH FLOWERS: Finding unique floral ornaments can add a special touch to your Secret Garden creation. The special thing about vintage finds is aged color and lovely craftsmanship, like this Spring Has Sprung vintage brooch from Carmen and Ginger. Finding a unique brooch like this, can easily be transformed into a gorgeous pendant. One of my two favorite tools for turning brooches into pendants are a screw two hole punch and a battery operated manicure set for smoothing out the back and giving newer pieces a shabby chic look.

~ CHARMING: A blooming flower can always use some love and affection, this lovely Oxidized Brass Watering Can Charm from Glamour Girl Beads, would be a perfect match for a vintage flower pendant. Charms can add a touch of whimsy to any creation and even tell a story, for example you could match a vintage clear chandelier tear drop crystal with a petite umbrella charm; how about that for April Showers!

~ INSPIRED: These two pieces look as if they have been taken from the novel The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. These Secret Garden Vintage Butterfly and Coral Earrings from Alfie Jewels, are truly exquisite and timeless. The carved bone has lovely detailing of flowers and a butterfly in a simple ivory color. And this Engraved Fairy Flower Brass Locket looks like it has been brought from the past, right out of Mary Lennox's hands. The unique thing about this locket, is that it has been kissed with an original drawing and then engraved; this is truly original and has an adorable ribbon to swoop your neck. You can find more whimsical engraved lockets from Star Creations.

I hope you've enjoyed these Secret Garden ornaments, use these ideas or if you have any ideas of your own, don't be shy we'd love to hear them! Stay tuned next time for more Buried Treasure Ideas when I talk about Girly Girly Frosted Delights!