In general terms a spiral is a curve emanating from a central point that becomes progressively further away as it revolves around the central point.

A shape from the golden ratio that is often found in nature, especially in shell construction, also present in florets and the Ammonite fossils .

In traditional hand stitched textiles, embroidery and quilting, where symbolism is an important part of the process, the spiral design represents long, everlasting life and is favoured for backgrounds and borders supporting other motifs and patterning.

It’s interesting that until we understand the symbolism behind hand work we are just admiring the neatness of the stitches, the way the maker has placed and interlocked the patterns and the general attractiveness of it all. This much deeper meaning, the hope and prayer behind each stitch that both physically and emotional underpins the work.

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