About this Product
When discovered, this beautiful hand painted cup and saucer had no handle on the cup. The Royal Stanley china was too pretty to discard, so what could I do? The first thing to do was figure something that could become a handle. And then how to make it work. Since I knew I wanted to make a pincushion, I looked at my wooden spools. There was still a gap, so then it was time for lace and trims. Now I had my supplies, so time to put things together. It was a two day process to attach the spool to the cup. Then the cup to the saucer and then to make a pincushion and attach it to the cup. Of course, it needed a little "more", so out came the pearls and she was done. Beyond unique and one of a kind.
Tower Creations by Madeline
Meet the Maker
I’ve always loved creating, with a philosophy of renew, redo, and repurpose. My work includes scarves with a unique edging technique, fabric baskets, soft fabric pins, and repurposed treasures like wooden spool scissor holders and chipped china jewelry trays.
Driven by both sustainability and imagination, I transform scraps and vintage finds into functional art while also designing new, one-of-a-kind pieces. Each creation is made with care, carrying its own quiet story of transformation.
Inspired by the meaning of my name, Madeline, I see my work as a tower—grounded in strength, elevated by creativity, and open to light. I’m deeply grateful for my supportive husband, our blended family of four children, two daughters-in-law, and three grandchildren—my greatest motivators. And of course, Ollie, our four-legged house boss, who graciously allows us to share her home.
How it’s Made
This set was so beautifully painted, I knew I had to find a way to save it. It wasn't possible to take off the rest of the handle without ruining the cup, so, time to improvise. I thought why not try to make a handle out of a wooden spoon, especially since I wanted to make it into a pincushion and bobbin holder. When I found one with the beautiful dark red thread, I was thrilled until I saw the gap. I could use what was left of the bottom of the handle, but there was nothing at the top. With an extra dose of patience, I discovered I could use some trims I had and make it work. And yes, it took 2 days. Attaching the cup to the saucer was easy but making the pincushion was a little more challenging. It was wider than what I had been used to and I needed to find a bigger scrap. So, I did and then made the pincushion and attached it. Because the painting was so pretty, I decided to finish it off with pearls. there will never be another one like it
Shop Policies
Processing time: From the time the item is purchased, it will be shipped usually within 2 to 5 days depending on holidays and weekends.
Return policy: A customer can return an item at their expense in the original packaging within 14 days of receiving it for a full refund.
Care Instructions: Any fabric scarf can be cold water washed but never dried in a dryer. Other fabric items can be wiped with a damp rag. Small handmade items should always be gently handled and dusted. All china and porcelain items should always be handled with care and gentled wiped or hand washed if necessary.
