Bright Spark by Carol Mullan

There is great truth in the saying ‘necessity is the mother of invention’.

Today, we’re going to add our own spin by proposing that embroidery is also the mother of invention.

For those who engage in the fine art of needlework, there is a high chance that you are an innovator.

If you have ever seen an embroidery project and thought, now that is a clever idea, chances are there are two possible reasons as to how that piece came to be:

1/. – There was a problem that needed solving and needle and thread (or even needle and yarn) came to the rescue.

2/. – There was a solution for a problem already in place, but it was very dull and boring and needed beautification.

Some items which could apply here include doilies, teapot cosies, napkins, placemats, chatelaines, lampshades, footstools, pincushions, needle cases… the list goes on.

We’ve even seen some highly decorative spare wheel covers on the back of SUV’s that have been superbly crocheted!

As a stitcher, you’re likely to always be looking for things to make better, or more beautiful, using needlework and this week’s project Bright Spark by Carol Mullan is a perfect example of both.

Bright Spark from Inspirations magazine issue #123 is collection of linen covers for magnifying lamps, worked with Nordic-style counted whitework, that are equal parts problem solving and beautification.

Let’s begin with the problem solving…

If you have a magnifying desk lamp chances are that you have either heard of, or experienced first-hand, the drama that can unfold should the magnifying glass catch the sunlight and burn an unwelcomed hole in whatever is beneath it. Then there is also the dust that can accumulate on the lamp and magnifier in-between use.

Now to the beautification…

No doubt you have also seen, or maybe even own, the classic utilitarian fix to said problem of simply sewing together a quick miniature pillowcase to cover the lamp.

Well, Australian designer Carol Mullan has come to our rescue and designed a series of elegant, ornate covers to bring beauty and practicality into our lives.

Bright Spark consists of a matching set of three projects including a small and a large lamp cover measuring 17.5cm x 15cm wide (7″ x 6″) and 28cm x 23cm wide (11″ x 9″) respectively, as well as a small pouch 8cm x 6.5cm wide (3 ¼” x 2 ½”) that is perfect for holding many small items including perhaps spare batteries for portable lamps.

Each project is worked using 28-count linen with two weights of perlé cotton thread, with the covers featuring a large motif accompanied by a dainty snowflake border.

Whitework is the perfect technique here as it adds a wonderful elegance yet subtle delight to each piece.

Even if you have a modern version of a magnifying lamp that has a built-in hinged lid, we still love the idea of beautifying your home by creating these highly desirable covers.

Also, if we’re living by the motto that she or he with the most embroidered items wins, this may just be something you hadn’t thought of adding to your collection before!

Make Your Own Bright Spark

We have all the materials you need to re-create this project yourself, from easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions to Ready-to-Stitch kits with everything sourced for you.

*Instructions – As these kits do not include instructions, for step-by-step directions on how to create this project, please refer to Inspirations magazine issue 123 or the Bright Spark digital pattern, both purchased separately.