What is a Tansy? And Why Thimble & Tansy?

When choosing a name for this space, I wanted something that spoke to my love of needle arts and gardening—two things that have been a part of my life for decades. Thimble & Tansy came together naturally, representing both of these passions and the beauty of a handmade life.

The Thimble: A Symbol of Craft and Tradition

a woman using a thimble while quilting

A thimble is small but mighty. It protects fingers from countless stitches, allowing hands to create something beautiful, practical, or sentimental. Whether cross-stitching, quilting, or sewing, a thimble reminds us of the patience and skill that go into needle arts. It’s a nod to the generations before us who made what they needed by hand, passing down techniques and traditions that still bring comfort and joy today.

The Tansy: A Cheerful and Resilient Bloom

a photo of a tansy plant in bloom....such a sunny yellow flower

The tansy is a bright yellow flower that grows with wild abandon, thriving in places where other plants struggle. Historically, tansy has been used as a medicinal herb and natural insect repellent, and its golden blooms have long been associated with resilience and endurance. In a way, it’s a perfect symbol for embracing a handmade life—one rooted in resourcefulness, creativity, and the joy of growing something with your own hands.

Embracing Handmade

At Thimble & Tansy, we celebrate all things handmade. Whether it’s cross-stitching a new project, cooking from scratch, or finding simple ways to create a cozy, welcoming home, this space is about the joy of doing things ourselves. There’s something deeply satisfying about making, growing, and nurturing—whether it’s a flourishing garden, a hand-stitched heirloom, or a warm and inviting nest.

a bohemian style living room with dark green sofa, lots of plants, natural lighting, and books.  There can never be too many books or plants!

Here, we embrace the slow and meaningful, choosing to stitch, bake, and grow rather than rush through life. Whether you’re a longtime needleworker, a gardener at heart, or simply someone who loves the idea of creating a handmade home, Thimble & Tansy is a place for you.

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