Imbolc Organic Cotton Handkerchief

Imbolc is celebrated on 1st February. To celebrate Imbolc as the beginning of Spring is a bit of a stretch, It is currently snowing on  January  30th as I write this, but this date marks the midway point between the Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox. Imbolc is said to be derived from an old Irish word meaning ‘in the belly’, or from oimelc meaning ‘ewe’s milk’. If you live on a small holding and you rely on your animals for your dairy products you can finally begin to enjoy milk, cheese and yoghurt from your sheep after a long winter, which would seem like a good excuse for a festival if you ask me.

The days are getting longer, life and colour is slowly returning, let’s celebrate! This design features some of the symbols of Imbolc, sheep, snowdrops, burrowing animals and the St Brigid's Cross.

The border for many of my designs illustrates trees chosen for their associations with old customs and beliefs. They are Elder, Oak, Ivy and Holly. 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 degrees.

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.