Field Mouse and Toadstool

Hand Embroidered on to antique linen that has been lightly dyed with carrot tops to give a gentle off-white background, this little field mouse foraging for food has found a toadstool treat! He is framed in a vintage oak frame with original gold slip and old glass.

I stitched this picture in the early autumn when the field behind our home had a constant supply of pretty toadstools.  John Clare's poem 'October' in the Shepherd's Calendar series captures this time of year perfectly and his observation on mushroom buttons was exactly the right quote to illustrate this picture.

I create my embroideries by layering tiny stitches in a loose long and short stitch, my aim is to create the depth and texture of the fur or feathers of the animal or bird I'm studying. I also use satin stitch, French knots, stem stitch, split stitch, and rollover stitch for foliage and text.

With over fifty eight hours of stitching before hand stretching over acid free card to extend longevity, and framing in its vintage frame, this piece is intended to be enjoyed not only today but by future generations too.

Do ensure you display embroideries out of direct sunlight, as if placed there they may fade.

The frame measures 7 inches (17.8 cm) x 8.5 inches (21.6 cm) and the picture aperture 4.25 inches (10.9 cm) x 5.75 inches (14.6cm). It comes with hooks and wire ready to hang.