Jackdaw and Blackthorn Organic Handkerchief

This handkerchief is sewn by me in Wales. The image is printed in the UK onto an untreated cotton fabric certified as 100% organic. The approximate size for each handkerchief is 320 mm x 320 mm.

The touch of grey on a jackdaw’s head speaks of ancient knowledge and wisdom. It was thought that a wise women could understand the jackdaw and in William of Malmesbury’s Kings of England, written in 1042, he tells of a women who went suddenly pale on hearing the chattering of a jackdaw, believing that she had heard news of a terrible calamity ahead. In some cultures, a jackdaw on the roof is an omen of death, in some, it predicts a new arrival and can be a good omen when seen on the way to a wedding. They are considered sacred in Welsh folklore as they nest in church steeples. In the Autumn they roost with large numbers of rooks and carrion crows.

The Blackthorn is also said to be a signifier of death and hard times to come but can also provide the strength and courage to overcome dark times. In British folklore witches use blackthorn to make their staffs and wands and use the sharp thorns to prick their poppets. The blackthorn is the tree associated with Samhain and Halloween when the veil between this world and the world of the dead is at it’s thinnest. Let’s face it though, I’m here for the Sloe gin.

The border for many of my designs illustrates trees chosen for their associations with old customs and beliefs. They are Elder, Oak, Ivy and Holly. I have also included some of the phases of the moon.

Wash at 30°

Every handkerchief is sent out with the explanation of where the inspiration came from and with full care instructions. 

Each order is wrapped in acid free, unbleached tissue paper, tied with yarn and includes a hand written thank you note. I am happy to address this to recipients of gifts at no extra cost. Just let me know in the notes when you place your order.