Lovely Lace by Fumie Suzuki

You may remember a few weeks ago we featured the most magnificent butterfly-shaped needlebook worked entirely in Hedebo, designed by Japanese artist Fumie Suzuki.

At the time, we declared that Butterfly, Butterfly may be practical in purpose, but it is so exquisitely stitched that it feels more like a cherished keepsake than a tool.

Well, this week Fumie is back with another spectacular project and another traditional stitch - this time a counted-thread whitework technique.

Lovely Lace from The Handpicked Collection 5 is a finely worked Hardanger pouch featuring repeating diamonds, stepped borders and openwork columns.

We love its clean geometry, instantly reminiscent of Art Deco design.

There’s a quiet sophistication in the way the pattern rises and falls, as though the textile were echoing the architectural ideas of that era.

To achieve this, Fumie brings together some of Hardanger’s most recognisable elements: Kloster blocks, crisp satin-stitch borders, carefully withdrawn threads, needlewoven bars tipped with delicate bullion picots and the distinctive Maltese cross filling stitched at the centre of each diamond.

Worked entirely in white on a low-count linen, the result is structured yet gentle, precise yet decorative.

Lovely Lace highlights Fumie’s gift for moving effortlessly between different whitework traditions while remaining unmistakably true to her own aesthetic.

Measuring approximately 12.5cm x 20cm (5” x 8”) when closed, this elegant pouch is wonderfully versatile. Some might use it to hold treasured letters, a favourite collection of threads or those small needlework notions that deserve a beautiful home of their own.

Others might tuck away their delicates or simply display the pouch as a decorative accent to showcase the beauty of whitework.

We even heard one particularly inventive suggestion that Lovely Lace would make a highly ornate holder for TV remotes.

This is a perfect example of how a stitcher’s mind works… always imagining how to beautify the world around us by introducing needlework treasures into everyday life. It speaks to just how adaptable this piece can be.

As with Butterfly, Butterfly, Fumie’s technical mastery is unmistakable. Where the Hedebo needlebook showcased her ability to sculpt graceful curves and lace-like arches, Lovely Lace demonstrates her equal command of Hardanger’s disciplined geometry.

Across both pieces she displays a rare balance of precision and artistry - a designer who not only honours historic needlework traditions but elevates them with her own refined sense of design.

Ready-to-Stitch kits for Lovely Lace are now available and include all the materials needed to recreate this beautiful project, including instructions.

If you would like to see more of Fumie’s work, discover the classes she offers, and learn more about her artistry, you can visit her website HERE.