Sewing the Corners

The crocheted lace compliments the smooth, tightly woven cotton fabric of the napkin. The lace adds visual depth and a sense of relaxation. This combination of color, pattern and texture delights me. I do not use a lot of pink in my home. But I am sewing this frilly lace onto this pink and cream fabric for my February tea. I will use this color theme throughout. I think it will be very attractive.

This sewing seems simple, but it's not. I'm having trouble with the cornering. I take a risk and attempt to sew the lace on at the same time as I sew the hem. If I sew slowly, all seems to work out fine...except for those corners. They require a reassessment of my approach and a trial of new methods.

In between moments of swearing and ripping seams, I discover that folding the fabric at a right angle gives me what I'm looking for.

I can't help but see the symbolism here - of how I prefer to turn corners in my life abruptly. But that often leads to puckered fabric as my life unfolds. Sometimes the puckers add visual interest, or I just don't have the chance to undo what I've done. Other times, I rip out the seams and begin anew...hopefully, with more patience and planning for the next corner.