Lace Bowls by Hidemi

While it's too fussy for my windows, too elaborate for my table and far too feminine for my wardrobe, I have always loved and admired things made of lace. The intricacy and whimsy of the openwork fabric (usually created when a thread is looped, twisted or braided to other threads independently from a backing fabric) may appear grandmotherly from a traditional standpoint, but its modern applications are limitless. Japanese ceramicist Hidemi, who now lives and works in New York, sees lace as the perfect embellishment to her delicate creations. I discovered these small bowls on her Etsy shop and loved not only the employment of the lace details but also the versatility of the pieces themselves; As decorative votives they create a striking design; a set of three sold in spring colours (with matching spoon rests) is utterly sweet. The handmade bowls are food-safe, although they are not microwave- or dishwasher-safe.