In crochet and patchwork: Nilanthie’s new items and more at Christmas sale
“From my childhood I used to love toys, especially dolls. I used to grab a pin, cut shapes out of cloth and try to stitch the pieces up,” says Nilanthie Wijegunawardene explaining how her interest grew into a passion. Nilanthie is now preparing for her Christmas sale to be held on December 9 from 10 a.m at 145/2, Park Road (lane opposite Leemart Furniture), Colombo 5.
Discovering the joy and satisfaction that one could gain by creating a knitted toy, Nilanthie learned crocheting and knitting at her mother’s knees, her mother and aunt both extremely skilful with their knitting needles. Her sewing lessons at school- St. Bridget’s Convent were also greatly enjoyed.
This year her annual seasonal sale will feature a range of new products. “I have appliqués and patchwork for the first time,” says Nilanthie. She is assisted by Hillary Christie, a musician by profession who has a knack for patchwork. Glass and mirror coasters, coasters crocheted in white thread and crochet jewellery will be some of her new exhibits.
Nilanthie and her creations. Pix by Athula Devapriya
A special addition that Nilanthie talks of with much enthusiasm is the Advent calendar. Hillary and Nilanthie have created the patchwork Advent calendar in the shape of a Christmas tree with 25 pockets for the days until Christmas.
The sale will also feature crochet table linen, cushions, table runners, table mats, coasters, ladies’ blouses, patchwork, appliqués, cross stitched, hand knitted covers and runners, knitted toys, Christmas decor, Nativity sets and Christmas bon bons. There’s Christmas cake and love cake too on the list.
Nativity sets have a huge demand each year. Flip over dolls are another of Nilanthie’s favourites. With a knitted colourful dress, when the doll is flipped over- there you have another doll.
“I mostly do the knitting and have about ten girls who assist me with the sewing,” she says. Nilanthie is also undertaking special orders for hand knitted and crocheted crafts.
Nilanthie enjoys each and every craft she makes and the end product always makes her happy and satisfied.
For more information on the sale please call:0112593838.