Glastonbury and the Blackbird Organic Handkerchief

Glastonbury Tor is steeped in history, lore and atmosphere. It feels like you are in another world, even now with so many tourists it maintains it's magic. There are so many wonderful things to visit when you go. From the Chalice Well to the Abbey's herb garden. It all adds to the layers of meaning and magic. I've added a Hawthorn to reference the Glastonbury thorn and also represent my love of foraging for these berries in winter. When there is little else to find this fruit makes pleasing fruit leathers, ketchups and cordials. 

Blackbirds are members of the thrush family and the males especially are beautiful and striking. It is said to be extremely lucky if you see two male blackbirds together and they are also said to indicate a change in the weather. There is something about their nocturnal birdsong which is reassuring whilst also unsettling and haunting at the same time, which I love.

The border for my Winter Solstice designs features Holly and Ivy. Both are important and sacred plants for this time of year. At the Winter Solstice, the Holly King loses his fight with the Oak King and the days will begin to get longer. Holly planted on boundaries or near to your home will prick evil spirits and prevent them from entering. Ivy represents life and re-birth as it often lives on after its host plant has died. The magical properties of ivy include protection, loyalty, fidelity, binding and cooperation. So it's a wonderful plant to have in the house as part of your family celebrations. I have also included some of the phases of the moon.

This handkerchief is sewn by me in Wales. The image is printed in the UK onto an untreated cotton fabric certified as 100% organic. The approximate size for each handkerchief is 320 mm x 320 mm. Wash at 30°

Each order is wrapped in acid free, unbleached tissue paper and includes a hand written thank you note. I am happy to address this to recipients of gifts at no extra cost. Just let me know in the notes when you place your order.