stitch & fable | small businesses in the spotlight

There are times when you know you have found a kindred spirit in the online world. With all the negative things that come with social media and the internet, that’s one of the best things. You can find people from all over the world who love the things you love. Such was the case with Rachel van Stitch & Fablean antique textile company based in Leicestershire, England.

If you’ve been following me for a while, you probably already know that I love antiques and vintage textiles.

Just a little.

And I also enjoy projects that require me to slow down, work with my hands and show something beautiful for that time and work. I’m not a great seamstress and probably too impatient to ever make something that would be a great example of needlework, but I enjoy it.

So when I found Stitch & Fable on InstagramI was immediately drawn to Rachel and the bundles of vintage and antique fabrics she sells.

Each bundle has been carefully curated to coordinate colors and patterns, and I can say from experience that it’s just a joy to flip through the stack and imagine the possible projects. The fabrics I received were a mix of airy cotton, thick canvas and woven flowers.

It’s also fun to guess how these fabrics were once used. I imagine this beautifully embroidered relic was a bedspread earlier in life.

Of course I have a penchant for calicos with indigo dyes and homemade checks.

All limited edition fabric bundles come with small, medium and large fabric scraps, providing a variety of project options.

In addition to the fabric bundles, Stitch & Fable sells ephemera packs, aged ribbons, slow-stitch kits, antique lace bundles, and even hearts made from antique fabrics. Everything is so beautifully and carefully curated, packaged and presented.

What do you do with bundles of fabric scraps? Well, someone like me doesn’t really *need* a reason, but it’s nice to buy things with some intent and purpose. Sure, they’re great for small sewing projects, but they can also be used in sketchbooks, journals, and other art projects. I’m not quite sure how I’ll use my bits and pieces just yet, but I like the idea of ​​figuring it out. When I see old things made from tiny scraps of cloth, probably whatever the maker had on hand, there is an ingenuity and determination that I admire. That’s why I’ve always kept a scrap box. Some fabrics, no matter how small, are just too good to throw away and can still be made into beautiful things.

You can follow Stitch & Fable on Instagram HERE and shop in the webshop HERE. They also offer free worldwide shipping!

You can find some projects I’ve shared that are great for fabric bundles…

Embroidery workbook

Mini advent stocking tutorial

rice & lavender hot/cold pack tutorial

Case for sewing scissors