Timeless Threadcraft ~ Nanacy Campbell

 

 Nancy Campbell, Timeless Threadcraft (Sunderland, MD)

My enterprise was nameless at my first craft shows. Nothing seemed to fit well until an elderly gentleman sparked inspiration at a Christmas event. He stood alone in the aisle, gazing wistfully at my wares, until I invited him in for a closer look. With tears in his eyes, he told me my work reminded him of his late wife, who was also a crocheter. He said the pieces on display were timeless in design, and he hoped the craft wouldn't be overlooked by the younger generation. Nameless became Timeless Threadcraft.

My grandmother taught me to knit as a child growing up in Wisconsin. I learned to crochet by watching her, reading how-to books, and experimenting. Throughout my working life as a teacher and then contracts manager for federal government contractors in the DC area, I made afghans, scarves, and hats for friends and family as a way to relax in the evening. Eventually, I began exhibiting at craft shows and was hooked. I tried new techniques and added items I call chill chasers: shawls, wraps, and neck and shoulder warmers for drafty offices like mine have always tended to be. Scrunchies, headbands, and barrettes were added next, then statement necklaces and collars.

Now that I'm semi-retired, I have more time to focus on my needlework and to indulge in my equally strong love of treasure hunting. I scour yard sales, estate auctions, and thrift stores for reasonably-priced hidden gems. (No Antiques Roadshow-worthy finds yet.) I then craft a coaster or doily for each that enhances the size, design, color, and quality of each found piece. The result is a melding of my needlework with art glass, candles (both traditional and LED), and fine lead crystal and porcelain objects made by Lenox, Wedgewood, Waterford, Mikasa, and others. These are offered for sale assets, and each is unique. Not every set is appropriate for every home, but there is a home that's appropriate for every set.