I've always appreciated the Swedish traditions of needle/textile arts that came down through the women in my family. My Mom was always supportive of my creativity. There were always art supplies and tools to explore.
In this photo, from the book cover of the Bag Book, I am 20 and she is 40....it was a new beginning of sharing our ideas in the publishing of this first round of books. Our line of Design & Sew Patterns soon followed and we both enjoyed many years of working and teaching retreats together.
Our favorite joint project was the Design & Sew Book ... you know, its the one with the blue cover? The re-printed, edited, version continues to be a favorite resource for timeless techniques and ideas. It makes a great personal workbook: stapling samples to the pages and writing notes in the margins.
Mom still hangs out in the studio, inspiring all of us....in photos, books, in her collage and watercolor work...and samples I share in classes. I feel her smiling and celebrating the directions my life and the precious traditions I can share with my children.
Thanks Mom, for sharing who you are ....with all of us.
Loving you, Diane
13 comments
I met your mother in San Diego when she started teaching craft classes for the adult ed departments. That must of been over 50 years ago. I was newly married with new babies – staying home & about ready to climb the walls. If I didn’t have that once a week class & her creative inspiration…….who knows what I would have done. I have been following Lois & you for many years. I have all her books & many patterns. Now that I’m no longer teaching & traveling promoting my own pattern line I am ready to order your stencils & get back to creative playing. Please keep doing the short videos.
Again…THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH.
I have not worked with your products for a few years, however today on Pinintrest I saw a Ericsson design. I filled the design and I end up here. I have several garments of Lois Ericsson designs.I have just discovered this web site. I do plan on enjoying your work
Thank you Diane for the pictures of your lovely and talented mom. I have taken several workshops when Lois would come to G Street Remnants in Washington DC and Rockville, MD during the early 80’s. Spending several days lecturing and teaching and signing books.
I have all of her books, patterns and received her newsletter “The Good News Rag.” I loved her newsletters and looked forward to her garment patterns. I have several of your garment patterns as well, Diane. I look forward to your newsletter. Hoping to spend time at your retreat, also.
What a treat to be reminded of such wonder filled moments from the past.
Diane, It is great to see these photos and think about your Mom.
I feel so lucky that me, my Mom, and my sister were fortunate to take some classes and be at a retreat with you and your Mom!
Her legacy lives on in the wonderful books and memories.
And you continue to be such a creative inspiration!
Thank you Diane for the photos and for sharing your special memories.
I have 2 special photos on my frig where I get to see my “sister” every day and remember all the fun and laughs we shared, sewing in the Oregon and the Reno studios, putting in the garden in Reno, playing gin rummy late into the.night and so many other wonderful times.
Lois’ creativity, color sense, ability to play and experiment was wonderful to watch and very inspirational.
She is truly missed. Hugs Pat