Blog of the Week- katherine kerr of the Hermitage

This week I am highlighting the blog of katherine kerr of the Hermitage. I have in the past been a member of the SCA, and find all of her pages on her site both informative and enjoyable. For needleworkers in general, you may prefer the pages on garb and embroidery.

I decided to feature Vicki’s site this week because Hsien-Hsien Lei of Genetics and Health interviewed me this week, so have had Genetics and DNA on the brain… and in Katherine’s embroidery page she talks about incorporating scientific images into medieval needlework.

As a dedicated anachronist I had been toying for some time with the idea of incorporating a set of modern scientific images in period embroidery styles, such as the DNA double helix or nuclear decay spirals. Close examination of a range of period examples convinced me that it would be possible to incorporate these motifs in a period-looking fashion.

For more on her methodology and research into this, as well as a good image of the piece of needlework she created incorporating the motifs, head on over and browse. Not only is there this fun piece with the DNA sneakily included, but she also has examples of embroideries, cross stitch and blackwork. Her garb section includes an example of a gorgeous embroidered sleeve insert.

Some of you may also find enjoyment in reading about her persona, her writings, or her activities for children.