Victorian Puzzle Purse, Hand Embroidered by Tatter

The Victorian puzzle purse is a meticulously folded letter that, upon opening, unveils significant motifs encircled by love messages and poems. Traditionally crafted with ink and watercolor on thick paper, 'puzzle purses' trace their roots to Japanese folded letters (itogami) and the early modern practice of 'letterlocking', which safeguards secret messages through intricate folds instead of seals. Due to their fragility and tendency to disintegrate from repeated folding, only a few of these puzzle purses endure. Our instructor, Elliot, chose to experiment with a new medium-embroidery on cotton! Not only can you read it as often as you wish, but with a heat erase pen, you can write and rewrite messages to gift to a loved one (or to yourself!).

• Embroidery Techniques: Satin, Fishbone, Back, Stem, French Knot, Puzzle Purse History
• Stitching Methods: Running, Ladder, Puzzle Purse Folding