Heartlands - The Cords

BY THE HEARTLANDS STITCHERS

TELLING THE STORY OF THE HEARTLANDS PANEL

Having been loaned one cord winder, Trevor made another three for the Heartland group, so that we are able to take them into schools later on.

Anne lives in Pitlochry made the cords for the central section that were used on the four ends of the cross to imitate carved stone knot-work. She writes she was:

...never too keen on sewing but enjoy knitting. Most of my pursuits are outdoors especially in the summer season when bowling is in full swing. Helping to make the cords was a perfect activity for me once I got the hand of it. It involved quite a bit of physical effort but how satisfying it was to see the colours blend and the cords take shape. The afternoon flew by with only a very short tea break. I was almost sorry when all the cords were completed!

Trevor and the cord winding machine
Image provided by The Heartlands Stitchers

Anne, of the Heartlands Stitchers
Image provided by The Heartlands Stitchers

The cords featuring in the intricate cross-end designs
Image provided by The Heartlands Stitchers

A masterpiece in the making
Image provided by The Heartlands Stitchers

Gordie and Vicki were involved in the layout and tacking of the cords on to the tweed for the cross ends, using four different knot-work designs. Gordie writes:

My name is Gordon and before moving to Pitlochry four years ago I was a professional actor for many years. I have been busy renovating our home and creating a garden. I’m a keen gardener and love nothing better than working outdoors in nature. I love all the seasons but Autumn is my favourite with all the stunning colours - natures tapestry! I was approached by Margaret as she had noticed the festive creations that I had made for my garden. I would never have put myself forward for this as I had never really sewn as a hobby. However, I have really enjoyed the sessions and getting to meet new people and share creative ideas. It’s been lovely seeing it all come together with much teamwork.

Gordie in the kitchen
Image provided by The Heartlands Stitchers

Gordie's witch
Image provided by The Heartlands Stitchers

Gordie's Santa
Image provided by The Heartlands Stitchers

Gordie's snowman
Image provided by The Heartlands Stitchers

Many thanks to the Heartland Stitchers for sharing with us this incredible story behind their panel, created as part of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands.

READ MORE STORIES FROM THE TAPESTRY OF THE HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS

Prior to the beginning of the stitching of each tapestry panel, each stitcher of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands was tasked with telling their interpretation of the 'Spirit of the Highlands and Islands' within a blank outline of a stone. The possibilities were truly endless - is it represented in the land? The people? A historical site? A favourite memory?

In any case, each journey stone represents the connection between each individual stitcher, their story, and their own sense, or 'spirit', of place. Discover more of the stories behind the journey stones of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands here.