#patchwork ottomans

[greatblueheronfurniture]

Elevate Your Living Space with Unique Patchwork Ottoman Patterns and Designs

When it comes to infusing style and functionality into your home decor, ottomans reign supreme as versatile and popular choices. Among the plethora of ottoman styles available, patchwork ottomans stand out as exceptional pieces that can enhance the aesthetics of any room. In this blog, we'll take a deep dive into the captivating realm of patchwork ottomans, exploring various patterns and designs that can revitalize your living space.

Small Leather Ottoman:

Small leather ottomans offer a touch of elegance and luxury that can elevate your interior. When adorned with patchwork designs, these ottomans take on a rustic yet sophisticated allure. Imagine a small leather patchwork ottoman from Great Blue Heron Furniture, featuring an artful fusion of brown and black leather squares meticulously stitched together. Such a design not only adds a stylish touch but also harmonizes effortlessly with a myriad of interior decor themes.

Cowhide Ottomans:

For aficionados of rustic charm and natural textures, cowhide ottomans provide an ideal blend of style and tactile allure. A cowhide patchwork ottoman, also available from Great Blue Heron Furniture, can serve as a striking focal point in your living room or bedroom. The inherent patterns of cowhide yield unique and captivating designs that vary from one ottoman to another, rendering each piece a veritable work of art.

Cowhide Storage Ottoman:

Bridging the realms of style and utility, cowhide storage ottomans are a functional marvel. These ottomans offer not only a comfortable place to rest your feet but also discreet storage space. Picture a cowhide patchwork storage ottoman, featuring contrasting patches of cowhide, courtesy of Great Blue Heron Furniture. This multifaceted piece not only elevates your decor but also helps maintain a clutter-free living space.

Sheep Ottoman:

When comfort and warmth are paramount, sheepskin ottomans, or sheep ottomans, deliver in spades. A patchwork sheepskin ottoman showcasing an array of sheepskin colors and textures exudes a cozy and inviting ambiance. These ottomans, readily available from Great Blue Heron Furniture, are perfect for creating a snug corner in your living room or bedroom, providing a sanctuary for relaxation.

Patchwork Ottomans:

Patchwork ottomans offer a wealth of choices in terms of shape, size, and design, making them a versatile addition to any room. Whether you opt for square, round, or oversized giant ottomans, you'll find the perfect patchwork design to harmonize with your space. Consider a patchwork ottoman incorporating a mix of fabrics, colors, and patterns for an eclectic and vibrant aesthetic.

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Reference From - https://farmhouseleathercouch.blogspot.com/2023/09/elevate-your-living-space-with-unique.html

[adore-laur]

Omgg I would love to see different times dadrry gets protective !! Like I can so see him being one of those dads that set boundaries the first time the baby is being introduced to family. He’d be like “no kissing on the face, no taking her away from mom without asking her first and wash your hands before holding her” etc etc. Or him getting defensive when people start to pity him when they find out he’s having a third girl and he gets annoyed and defends his girls 😭😭

Also ofc need to say your dadrry series is the best thing ever I still have tumblr solely to read your writing ☺️☺️

PROTECTOR

——

Pacific loons wailed hauntingly near the shoreline as you sat in the patio's swing chair, listening to the sundry sounds of nature. The oceanic view was a calm presence, one that often lulled you into a hypnotic trance with the endless ebb of waves and the horizon's dying light. Above the railing, brass wind chimes produced a plinking melody in the wind. The atmosphere of home engulfed you like a warm hug.

It was a moment of serenity while Harry went on a grocery run with the girls. He had offered to take them after work, and it was sweet of him to give you time to decompress after parenting alone all day. Plus, it got them out of the house. You would usually be able to take them somewhere for fresh air and fun sights to see, but pregnancy fatigue prevented any hopes of traveling past the front door.

A month had elapsed since you surprised Harry with the news of a third baby. Two weeks since you both had found out it was a girl. In that time, life had coasted by blissfully between the routine of working part-time, daycare drop-off and pick-up, and bonding with your little family over the weekend.

As much as you cherished the hustle and bustle, it was necessary to prioritize personal time. Sometimes it came in the form of sinking into a hot bath, venturing to the beach with a novel, or catching up on much-needed sleep. Today, it consisted of feeling the breeze pass through your hair and appreciating the beauty of southern California.

It would be easy to fall asleep out here. The crashing waves, birdsong, and rustling trees were a lullaby. But you knew the moment you closed your eyes, you would miss the last streaks of the sunset, with its delicate wisps and golden clouds. So you shifted slightly to wake your limbs that were becoming jelly-like, and as you did, the blanket previously draped across your collarbones pooled into your lap. You stared down at it, smiling. The bedroom's storage ottoman held approximately a dozen different blankets, all with some sort of sentimental value attached to them. The crocheted quilt your first daughter had come home from the hospital with; the heated one with Mom embroidered on it; the oversized fleece one Harry liked to specifically use for cuddling either you or his girls.

The one you had chosen for your peaceful patio time was a ragged, faded patchwork quilt that Harry had kept (possibly stole) from the walk-up apartment you lived in together nearly eight years ago. It had watched your love for him grow beyond your wildest dreams. Had seen moments of rib-aching laughter, frustrated tears, pain and passion, and a commitment that would always withstand rough waters. Neither of you had wanted to part with that blanket, so now it stayed in a special place in the home that had once been a far-fetched fantasy.

As your fingers plucked loose threads from the fabric, you felt your phone vibrate with an incoming call. It was hidden somewhere under the thick blanket, and after a moment of searching, you picked it up and looked at the screen. It was Harry, made evident by his contact photo—a family picture on the Temescal Canyon Trail, your youngest strapped to your chest in a carrier and Harry carrying your oldest on his shoulders. A generous elderly couple had offered to take it, with the stunning backdrop of the expansive coastline. You especially loved the picture because it showed off Harry's legs in his athletic shorts, all long and tanned.

"Hey," you answered, assuming he was calling from the grocery store. He often did with ideas for meals or questions about kiddie snacks. Sometimes he'd ask what desserts you were craving, and then he'd spoil you by bringing home more than you could even fathom eating.

"Hi, baby," he said, sounding winded. "Can you unlock the door for me? Both girls are out like a light in my arms."

"Oh!" you said, not expecting him back so soon. Nature's hypnosis made you lose track of time. "Okay, I'll be right there."

"Thank you. I'd hang up, but my phone is balancing rather precariously on my shoulder."

You laughed and hung up for him, then untangled yourself from the cozy confines of the swing chair before heading inside. You were careful to hop over the dolls and picture books and blocks scattered across the living room carpet.

When you reached the front door and opened it slowly, your heart melted. Harry stood there holding one daughter on each hip, their little bodies slumped against him as they slept. You could tell your youngest was in a deep sleep. Your eldest, though, was definitely pretending so she could be carried inside like a princess. The sunset's pink light peeked into the garage and softened Harry's handsome features ethereally. Who else could look this good after grocery shopping?

"We're home," he whispered, and those two simple words filled your heart with an unspeakable amount of happiness.

"I'll help put stuff away," you replied quietly, taking his phone to relieve him from his uncomfortable position. "You go tuck the girls in." It was nearing their bedtime anyway, so better to take advantage of a smooth transition.

Harry smiled with that attentive look on his face, then bent to tenderly kiss the sweet spot on your neck. "You're glowing," he murmured in your ear, then walked past you, leaving your cheeks flushing like a besotted teenager.

Once the groceries were put away and the kids were down for the night, you and Harry went to relax in the bedroom. The sky was now devoid of color with stars twinkling faintly, and the full moon spilled its light through the bay window.

You were already in your pajamas, collapsing onto the comforter, when Harry asked, "How was your day?" He shut the closet light off, dressed in just a T-shirt and black boxers. There were those legs again, the lean muscles a feast for your eyes.

"Mellow," you said. "We stayed inside mostly. Morning sickness has been kicking my ass."

"Good thing you didn't have to work today."

You nodded. That was the nice part about working part-time and partially from home—it allowed for the freedom to be with the kids more often. You didn't mind taking them to daycare, especially since it was imperative for socialization, but it lessened your anxiety when you had them under your supervision. It was a suitable balance.

"Did everyone behave at the store?" you asked, sliding your socks off under the sheets.

"Yeah. No tantrums." Harry raised his eyebrows proudly, and you both shared an air-five. "They seemed knackered. Slept all the way home."

"I tried my best to tire them out."

"Well, you succeeded," he said appreciatively, then joined you in bed, stretching his limbs. You were so thankful for his diligence. To work ten hours and then parent to take some responsibility off your plate was admired more than you could ever put into words.

Harry reached his hand over to the nightstand to resume the book he'd been engrossed in recently but paused and turned to you instead. "Can I gossip with you?" he asked.

You quirked your brows. "What happened?"

He breathed deeply and stared into the distance. "So, I was in the cereal aisle, right?"

You laughed while cuddling up to him. "This is juicy so far."

"It's not even gossip, really," he said. "Just something that irked me."

"Please continue."

He wrapped his arm around your shoulders and painted a picture of the scene. "I had the girls sitting in the shopping cart, and an old lady nearby started fawning over them. Which is fine, because they're adorable. Anyway, she started asking a bunch of questions—how old they are, what their personalities are like. Somehow I accidentally let it slip that we have a third one on the way, and I know we're telling our families next week, but I got caught up in the conversation and—"

"You're so bad at keeping secrets," you interrupted with a good-natured groan.

Harry kissed your forehead apologetically. "The worst. So, this lady had the audacity to act all surprised that I was going to be a father of three girls. Gave me a face like she pitied me. And then guess what she said..."

"I assume something mildly offensive," you replied.

"She goes, 'I bet you were hoping for a boy. To bring some balance to your home.'"

You scoffed and said, "More like chaos. What did she even mean by that?"

He shook his head, equally puzzled. "I don't know, but I just said, 'I'm very happy with my life,' then grabbed a box of Cocoa Puffs and went on with my day."

You frowned. "Why do some people think having daughters is such a burden?" It was mind-boggling. They had taught you so much and would continue to as they grew and spread their wings. It was your purpose to shape them into resilient, kind, and empathetic women. What a beautiful honor anyone would be lucky to experience.

"I'll never understand," Harry mused, locking eyes with you. "It's the most..." He trailed off with an emotional smile, and you stroked his cheek, letting him take his time. It wasn't often you or he could speak so rawly about the life you'd created together. "It's just the best feeling imaginable, you know? I can't describe it. All I know is that I wouldn't want it any other way."

You kissed him softly, feeling the sincerity of his words in the way he gracefully slipped his tongue past yours. With your palm still cradling his cheek, you halted his kisses using your thumb to say, "You're this family's heartbeat."

His lustful green eyes opened, his pupils dilating as if absorbing your admission. "If I'm the heartbeat, then you're the lungs."

"Sweet-talker," you teased.

"You started this love fest."

After a stretch of comfortable silence, Harry settled his hand on your small bump, a warm and knowing touch. "Please don't think I'm waiting on a son," he said.

You snorted. "Don't be ridiculous. I know more than anyone else how much you wanted daughters. You told me during our first date."

"I did?"

"We talked each other's ears off that night about our futures. The universe must have been listening." The conversation was burned into your brain. In that dim oceanside restaurant, you had known he was a keeper.

"Yeah," Harry whispered, kissing all over your stomach, leaving no skin unmarked by his gentle lips. He then rested his head in your lap. "I can't wait to meet her."

You hummed. "Have you ever thought about what she'll be like?"

"A combination of all four of us."

A ghost of a smile spread on your lips. "We're going to have our hands full then."

"I'm ready."

"I know you are," you said while playing with his hair. "That's why I chose you."

He was a protector, down to the fibers of his being. You didn't have to be in the room for him to remind the world of his devotion to being your husband. To being a father. He laid it all bare, and you could only hope that it would be passed down to your daughters like an heirloom blanket.

——

[whencyclopedia]

War of the Second Coalition

The War of the Second Coalition (1798-1802), part of the broader French Revolutionary Wars, was the second attempt by an alliance of major European powers to defeat Revolutionary France. The Second Coalition, which included Russia, Austria, Great Britain, Naples, Portugal, and the Ottoman Empire, was defeated by the French Republic, and hostilities ended with the Treaty of Amiens in 1802.

Origins: Victory of the Great Nation

With the signing of the Treaty of Campo Formio on 17 October 1797, the War of the First Coalition (1792-1797) finally came to an end. Born out of tensions surrounding the French Revolution (1789-1799), the war had seen the infant French Republic take on most of the great powers of Europe, including Austria, Prussia, Great Britain, and Spain, while simultaneously dealing with several counter-revolutionary rebellions within its borders. Through draconian efforts such as mass conscription and the bloodshed of the Reign of Terror, the French Republic managed not only to survive the existential threat posed by these enemies, but to triumph; by 1796, French armies had won a succession of victories in the Netherlands, on the Rhine, and in Italy. The frustrated nations of the First Coalition gradually dropped out of the war until October 1797, when Austria made peace at Campo Formio and left Great Britain as the only power to remain at war with France.

The victory left the French Republic as the preeminent power in Western Europe, rivaled only by Britain itself. France had annexed Belgium, Luxembourg, and the west bank of the Rhine and indirectly ruled Holland and northern Italy through a collection of client states known as 'sister republics'. For the French, who had succeeded in their war goals to both preserve their Revolution and expand it into Europe, this was not just a victory but also an indicator of the greatness of the French people. Around this time, the French increasingly referred to themselves as "the Great Nation", a state superior to all others and unencumbered by international rules. This rise in nationalism coincided with a sharp turn back into extremist Jacobinism; the Coup of 18 Fructidor (4 September 1797) purged the Republic's government, called the French Directory, of its conservative and royalist members, many of whom were exiled to French Guiana. This neo-Jacobin resurgence resulted in a new wave of violence against priests and political opponents and reignited the disdain for the old regime monarchies of Europe. The new Fructidorian Directory promptly broke off preliminary peace talks with Britain and began to make plans for further territorial expansion.

At the Congress of Rastatt, which met in November 1797 to finalize the peace between France and the Holy Roman Empire, the first signs of France's aggressive post-war foreign policy became apparent. Despite Holy Roman Emperor Francis II's promise to the Imperial Diet that the empire would retain its "complete integrity", the French still compelled the German states to cede all lands on the west bank of the Rhine. The French also stipulated that German princes who lost land from the deal could be compensated by the secularization of ecclesiastical states, dealing a further blow to the unity of the empire.

The nations of Europe, unnerved by France's belligerent attitude at Rastatt, were further alarmed in January 1798, when a French-backed coup overthrew the government of Switzerland, which was replaced with a French puppet state called the Helvetic Republic. Meanwhile, a riot in Rome that led to the death of a French general was used as the pretext for the French invasion of the Papal States on 15 February 1798. The Eternal City was integrated into the patchwork of French client states as the Roman Republic, and Pope Pius VI was taken prisoner. Though the "Great Nation" was now at the center of a zone of influence that stretched in an almost unbroken line from Amsterdam to Rome, its appetite for conquest remained unsatisfied.

Continue reading...

[sonobeunitsarecool]

Sakurai Haruka: Theory pt. 2

Right, sorry for taking so long, but here's part 2 of the theory that Haruka spend a significant length of time in a psych ward. So the main parts of his MV's that imply this would be from AKAA, namely:

The room is a plain, unfurnished space, with light coming in from bars reminiscent of prison bars. They are high up, for safety. The chair is a simple folding chair, although it's a little too risky for something used on a psych ward (too dangerous, can be used as a weapon). I'd expect seats to be pillows, ottoman-like things, couches, or seating bolted directly into the floor.

A little window on the rooms of patients', it has a little hole on the side so it can be opened. This is used to check on patients at night, to ensure they are well and alive. It is not something seen in most other places, due to privacy.

There are two rectangles. One will be a light switch, and the other will be a panic button, if a patient needs assistance. They are loud. Many other places don't need two visible switches/buttons near the doors.

Here you can see the vent for the door, helps to hear patients and ensures proper air. The doorknob does not appear to be able to lock from the inside. The doorknob is a minor ligature risk, however ease of use and reduction of avaliable ligatures should make it a decent doorknob choice. The floor seen here is made of square tiles. Good for cleaning, however a risk for self-harm. It's shown as rectangular in other parts, but it may just be due to camera angle. All in all (knowing/agony), this can only be a depiction of a psych ward. This is backed up by Haruka's language skill level, as discussed in pt. 1, and what that implies in terms of education. What does this explain? Why would Haruka's time spent on a psych ward be shown, in a video depicting his mindscape regarding his crime? Does this fact put any other details into context? What can be inferred? Well, to start, were Haruka on a psych ward, it would explain his clothes. For the most part. In Weakness, the "current/teen" version of Haruka is in a plain, white outfit.

He wears shoes that aren't complex in design, and probably don't allow him any advantage in a fight. The clothes are white, good for washing and easy identification of patients, and don't provide any extra ligature opportunities. Now, there's a high chance that these are actually Haruka's clothes, not ones provided by the ward, because of something else later.

In AKAA, his shoes are different, but still white, harmless, and likely provided by the facility. Oddly enough, his socks are mismatched. He also wears his patchwork outfit, a combination of personal clothes and more formal/provided clothes. This is in line with some of his int. answers, such as: "How do you decide what clothes to wear for the day" - "I wear what's there" (because he doesn't have a lot of choice, plus spending a long time away from home would mean that he doesn't need many personal clothes to wear outside of the ward) "What do you think of the prison outfits?" - "They're kind of relaxing" (he's more used to the prison outfits than "normal" outfits, so it provides him with a sense of familiarity and comfort) Something that is not consistent with this theory would be his necklace! Except. If you look carefully, the only times we see him wearing his necklace in the MVs would be when he is unlikely to be on the unit at that moment. He doesn't wear it for most of AKAA, for example. But, he's still attached to it. Which makes me wonder as to where in his personal timeline did he come into possession of his mother's necklace? Because he cannot have worn it on the ward. It's an obvious ligature risk. But he's wearing it here:

Implying that he wore it during his murder of his victim. This is what makes me think that these are Haruka's clothes, because the ward would probably want its clothes returned to it upon discharge. (VERY low chance of killing someone while on the ward, and his victim was killed outside, judging by the little green patch in the background of the end shot of AKAA) Okay. That's a lot of reading into clothing. I think I'll cut it off here, and make a part 3. Didn't mean for it to get this long... Next time, I'll want to talk about how his time on the ward has impacted his behaviour, putting a lot of Haruka's actions into context that may not be immediately obvious for some viewers. It'll mostly be me going over a bunch of tiny details. Should I post about other things? I've been wondering about doing translyrics for Backdraft, a summary of how each character refers to everyone (honorifics, how they refer to self, how this changes), and a post on why Milgram makes no sense (or why it's not an actual prison), linking the info in this post to the Milgram facility. Should I do any of these? (And are there any other cipher texts I've missed, because for some reason I've become very interested in them. It's a whole other alphabet! I wonder if any of the merch has cipher text...? As an easter egg.)

[ancientcosmicsecrets]

The Piri Reis Map

Piri Re'is

The Piri Reis Map, one of several enigmatic maps drawn in the 15th Century and earlier, presents a puzzle. It holds more accurate information about the shape of the continents than should have been known at the time, sparking intrigue and curiosity.

The Piri Reis map, created by Ottoman-Turkish cartographer Ahmed Muhiddin Piri in 1513, has attracted significant attention due to its depiction of an ice-free Antarctic coastline. If this is true, someone had discovered and mapped Antarctica centuries before its reported discovery in 1773. This revelation challenges our understanding of history and raises intriguing questions about the capabilities of ancient civilizations. Could they know the world is only known to modern science, such as the structure and function of DNA, or advanced astronomy and physics?

The Piri Reis Map is only one of several strange maps drawn in the 15th Century and earlier, and it appears to represent better information about the shape of the continents than should have been known at the time. In 1929, Director Halil Edhem went through the basement of a Turkish palace looking for old maps at the request of German theologian Gustav Adolf Deissmann. Edhem happened upon a very mysterious artifact. A small map was inked onto animal skin, although only a fragment remained. At first, it looked like any other aged map. However, upon closer inspection, something caught Deissmann's attention. It was ultimately identified as the Piri Reis map, incorporating the only known copy of Christopher Columbus' map.

The Piri Reis map is one of the cornerstones of the growing body of evidence for an unknown Ice Age civilization. This civilization existed during the last glacial period, leaving intriguing artifacts and mysteries behind. The Piri Reis map, with its accurate depictions and advanced cartographic techniques, is a testament to this civilization's knowledge and capabilities.

The Piri Reis map showed Antarctica's coastline and the proportions of the continent without its ice cap, which were only visible over 6,000 years ago. Our modern knowledge of the coastline under the ice was obtained using seismic-sounding data. This technique involves sending sound waves into the ground and measuring the time it takes to bounce back from Antarctic expeditions in the 1940s and 50s.

This data allowed us to map the coast under the Antarctic glaciers. The other way to map these coastlines would be to have surveyed them when they were ice-free. According to Hapgood, who based the claim on 1949 core samples from the Ross Sea, the last time the particular area shown in the Piri Reis map was free of ice was more than 6000 years ago. More recent studies show that this may be off by a couple of magnitude. In any case, this geography should have been unknown to the ancients. If this is correct, there are some big mysteries to explain.

In 1965, Professor Charles Hapgood from the University of New Hampshire and his students scrutinized the Piri Reis map. They were not only intrigued by its depiction of the Antarctica coastline but also by another peculiar anomaly. The map had been created using the Mercator Projection, a method of map-making that allowed for a more accurate curvature when transferring maps from paper to globe. This was a technique that European cartographers didn't adopt until 1569, making the Piri Reis map a testament to advanced cartographic techniques that were seemingly ahead of their time.

Hapgood concluded that a civilization with high seafaring and mapping skills surveyed the entire Earth in the ancient past. They left maps that have been copied by hand through many generations. The Piri Re'isRe'is map is a patchwork with gaps (most notably the Drake Passage between South America and Antarctica) that can be explained as non-overlapping areas between the source maps. Maps of the Ancient Sea Kings. Based on what we know, ancient civilizations needed the tools or capabilities to map continents on such a grand scale. Do you know how it could have been achieved? Scholars and historians began to speculate. Paranormal researchers pointed to some extraterrestrial assistance. Others hypothesized the possible involvement of a civilization based around the Lost City of Atlantis. Does the map show an ice-free Antarctica from over 6,000 years ago? Is it proof that an alien technology once existed on Earth?

[asensefeed]

8, 14, 18

8. I'd generally say that those people groups whom have been heavily affected and harmed by Eurasian colonialism and imperialism (with a loose list of such colonial powers being the Western European, Russian, Chinese, Japanese, and Ottoman Turkic powers) and were present before Eurasian mass-contact by way of state powers should be considered indigenous. This would generally include the Native Americans/First Nations of North and South America, Polynesians, Saami, Arabs of the Arabian Peninsula, Dravidians of the southern Indian subcontinent, Australasians, as an exemplary but incomplete and incomprehensive list.

14. The success of the gay rights movement I believe is attributable to the rise of the New Left and the replacement of old capitalist conservatism with neoliberalism for the 80s and 90s. The rise of the New Left, particularly I'd say within student populations and universities, divided many countries between those who wanted to reform and keep the country together/prevent revolution, and those staunch conservatives whom wanted to simply crush the New Left. While both reform and crushing of the New Left both occurred, I'd say reform won out, whilst the very existence of the New Left managed to push the overton window to a point where mass sexual liberation was within grasp; this culminated in the advent of neoliberalism, which, ironically enough, although at first staunchly conservative in terms of social policies, I would say eventually co-opted the New Left (after the New Left had essentially lost all its revolutionary steam) to appeal to the more socially liberal younger generations.

18. I would say the physicist's 'theory of everything' is sort of a chimera. Physicists currently have many separate theories, yes, and I think the eventual 'grand unified theory' will not be entirely correct; it will be able to describe all of nature, but not explain all of it perfectly. The grand unified theory will be patchwork, many of such separate theories welded together into something that only resembles a cohesive whole.

[qualityclassroom]

Grok Answers: ‘Politics question’ Title: "The Al-Sulaim Dynasty: Unaizah’s Historic Rulers and Their Role in Saudi Arabia’s Unification"

A fitting title for a blog post based on the provided text about the Al-Sulaim dynasty in Unaizah and the broader context of regional ruling families in Saudi Arabia could be:

"The Al-Sulaim Dynasty: Unaizah’s Historic Rulers and Their Role in Saudi Arabia’s Unification"

This title captures the focus on the Al-Sulaim family’s historical significance, their governance in Unaizah, and their integration into the unified Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under the House of Saud, while also hinting at the broader context of regional dynamics discussed in our conversation.

Question:

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has one royal family, House of Saud, am I right? If so, why do they have this Al-Sulaim dynasty in Unaizah, Saudi Arabia?

Grok Answer:

You're correct that the House of Saud is the ruling royal family of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, governing the country as an absolute monarchy since its founding in 1932 by King Abdulaziz Al Saud (Ibn Saud). The House of Saud, originating from the Al Saud family of the Banu Hanifa tribe, has been the dominant political and dynastic force in the region, establishing the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through conquests and alliances, particularly with the Wahhabi movement. Their rule extends across the entire kingdom, and the king holds the title of "Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques," signifying their authority over Mecca and Medina.

However, the Al-Sulaim dynasty in Unaizah, as mentioned in your text, refers to a distinct local ruling family that historically governed the city of Unaizah, located in the Al-Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. This does not contradict the House of Saud's overarching rule over the kingdom. Here's why both can coexist:

Historical Context of Local Rule:

The Al-Sulaim dynasty, as your text describes, has been a prominent family in Unaizah since 1817, when Prince Yahia bin Sulaiman Al Zamil Al-Sulaim ousted an Ottoman-appointed governor. They maintained local control over Unaizah, a significant city in the Al-Qassim region, for much of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Their rule was characterized by strong leadership, such as Prince Zamil al-Sulaim (1864–1887), known for his warfare skills, and Prince Abdulaziz Abdullah al-Sulaim (1901–1914), who secured a degree of sovereignty for Unaizah through a treaty with King Abdulaziz Al Saud.yourprovidedtext

During the 19th century, the Arabian Peninsula was not a unified state. It was a patchwork of tribes, emirates, and city-states, with local families or tribes often holding power in specific areas. The Al-Sulaim family’s rule in Unaizah was one such example of localized governance, similar to how other regions like Ha'il were controlled by the Al Rashid dynasty or the Hejaz by the Hashemite Sharifs before the House of Saud’s unification efforts.

Integration into the Saudi State:

The House of Saud, under King Abdulaziz, began consolidating power in the early 20th century, capturing key regions like Riyadh (1902), the Hejaz (1924–1925), and eventually unifying the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932. Your text notes that Prince Abdulaziz Abdullah al-Sulaim signed a treaty with King Abdulaziz, granting Unaizah "total sovereignty" within the emerging Saudi state. This likely indicates a negotiated agreement where the Al-Sulaim family retained local influence or autonomy in Unaizah in exchange for recognizing the overarching authority of the House of Saud. Such arrangements were common as Ibn Saud incorporated regional powers into his kingdom through diplomacy, alliances, or conquest.

The term "sovereignty" in the context of Unaizah likely refers to administrative or cultural autonomy rather than independence from the Saudi state. The Al-Sulaim family would have operated under the umbrella of the House of Saud’s national rule, possibly as governors, local leaders, or influential notables in Al-Qassim.

Why Two Dynasties?:

The Al-Sulaim dynasty is not a rival royal family to the House of Saud but rather a regional elite family with historical significance in Unaizah. The House of Saud is the sole ruling dynasty of the entire kingdom, with the king as the head of state and government, controlling national policy, military, and religious authority.

Families like Al-Sulaim, Al Jiluwi, or Al Sudairi (cadet branches or allies of the Al Saud) often held prominent roles in specific regions or as governors, but they were subordinate to the Al Saud’s central authority. The Al-Sulaim’s prominence in Unaizah reflects their historical role as local leaders, not as contenders for the national throne. Their influence would have been integrated into the Saudi state’s structure, likely through appointments or alliances with the Al Saud.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

The Al-Sulaim dynasty’s story, as highlighted in your text, reflects the rich tribal and regional history of Saudi Arabia. Families like Al-Sulaim were influential in their locales, contributing to the cultural and political fabric of regions like Al-Qassim. For example, Prince Zamil al-Sulaim’s era was notable enough to be documented by Charles Montagu Doughty in Travels in Arabia Deserta (1888), indicating their prominence among Bedouin tribes and in regional governance.yourprovidedtext

The House of Saud, while unifying the country, often preserved the status of local elites to maintain stability and loyalty, especially in regions like Al-Qassim, known for its distinct identity and economic importance (e.g., agriculture and trade). The treaty with Abdulaziz Abdullah al-Sulaim suggests such an arrangement.

Modern Context:

Today, the House of Saud remains the sole ruling dynasty, with King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman holding central power. Regional families like Al-Sulaim may still hold local influence, perhaps through tribal leadership, business, or cultural roles, but they do not challenge the national authority of the Al Saud. The Al-Sulaim dynasty’s historical role in Unaizah is likely preserved as part of the region’s heritage rather than as an active political rival.

In summary, the House of Saud is the only royal family ruling the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Al-Sulaim dynasty in Unaizah was a regional ruling family with historical control over the city, integrated into the Saudi state through treaties and alliances. Their role reflects the complex tribal and regional dynamics of the Arabian Peninsula before and during the unification of Saudi Arabia, but they do not constitute a separate royal family on the national level.

If you have more specific questions about the Al-Sulaim dynasty, their treaty with King Abdulaziz, or their current status, let me know, and I can dive deeper!

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Question:

How many other regional ruling families exist in Saudi Arabia? How many of them did King Ibn Saud sign treaties with? I need to know their exact number, thanks.

Grok Answer:

To address your query, we need to determine the number of regional ruling families in Saudi Arabia historically and identify how many of them King Abdulaziz Al Saud (commonly known as Ibn Saud) signed treaties with. The response will aim to provide exact numbers as requested, based on available historical information, including the context from your provided text about the Al-Sulaim dynasty in Unaizah and relevant web sources.

Number of Regional Ruling Families in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, before its unification in 1932 by Ibn Saud, was a fragmented region composed of various tribal territories, city-states, and emirates, each often governed by local ruling families or tribal leaders. These families held significant influence over specific regions or cities, though they were not necessarily "royal" in the sense of the House of Saud, which became the sole ruling dynasty of the unified kingdom. Below is an analysis of the prominent regional ruling families that existed during the period leading up to and during Ibn Saud’s unification efforts:

Al-Sulaim (Unaizah): As your text indicates, the Al-Sulaim dynasty ruled Unaizah in the Al-Qassim region since 1817. They were a significant local power, with figures like Prince Yahia bin Sulaiman Al Zamil Al-Sulaim and Prince Abdulaziz Abdullah al-Sulaim, who signed a treaty with Ibn Saud granting Unaizah a degree of sovereignty. yourprovidedtext

Al Rashid (Ha’il): The Al Rashid family ruled the Emirate of Jabal Shammar, centered in Ha’il, and were major rivals to the Al Saud. They controlled much of northern and central Arabia during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, backed by the Ottoman Empire. Ibn Saud defeated them in 1921, annexing their territory into his domain.

Hashemites (Hejaz): The Hashemite family, led by Sharif Hussein bin Ali, ruled the Hejaz region, including the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, as the Sharifs of Mecca. They held significant religious and political authority until Ibn Saud conquered the Hejaz in 1924–1925, forcing their exile.

Banu Khalid (Al-Ahsa): The Banu Khalid tribe controlled the Al-Ahsa (Eastern Province) region before Ibn Saud’s conquests. They were a powerful tribal confederation, and Ibn Saud married into this tribe to consolidate alliances, though they were not a centralized ruling family like the Al Saud or Al Rashid.

Ajman (Eastern Arabia): The Ajman tribe, another influential group in eastern Arabia, held regional power. Ibn Saud also married into this tribe to secure alliances, indicating their significance as a regional force.

Shammar (Northern Arabia): The Shammar tribe, distinct from the Al Rashid (though sometimes allied), had influence in northern Arabia. Ibn Saud incorporated their leaders into his alliances through marriage and diplomacy.

Al Idrisi (Asir): The Al Idrisi family ruled the Asir region in southwestern Arabia as an emirate. Ibn Saud incorporated Asir into his kingdom by 1930, often through treaties and negotiations, though specific treaty details with the Al Idrisi are less documented.

Other Tribal Leaders: Beyond these, numerous smaller tribal leaders and families governed local areas or oases, such as in Al-Jouf, Najran, or smaller towns in Najd and Al-Qassim. These were often less formalized "ruling families" and more tribal chieftains who pledged allegiance to Ibn Saud through treaties or conquest. Examples include minor leaders in Al-Qassim towns like Buraydah or local Bedouin tribes. However, specific names and numbers of these smaller entities are harder to quantify due to their decentralized nature.

Based on historical records, the most prominent regional ruling families with significant political control were the Al-Sulaim (Unaizah), Al Rashid (Ha’il), Hashemites (Hejaz), Banu Khalid (Al-Ahsa), Ajman, Shammar, and Al Idrisi (Asir). This gives a total of 7 major regional ruling families with clear historical prominence. Smaller tribal leaders existed, but they are not typically counted as "ruling families" in the same sense due to their limited territorial control and lack of centralized governance. The exact number of minor families is difficult to pinpoint due to the fluid tribal structure of pre-1932 Arabia, but the major families listed above are the most documented.

Treaties Signed by King Ibn Saud with Regional Ruling Families

King Ibn Saud was known for his strategic use of diplomacy, marriages, and conquest to unify the Arabian Peninsula. He signed treaties with various regional leaders to secure allegiance, neutralize rivals, or formalize control. Below is an analysis of treaties specifically with regional ruling families, focusing on exact numbers as requested:

Al-Sulaim (Unaizah): Your provided text explicitly states that Prince Abdulaziz Abdullah al-Sulaim signed a treaty with Ibn Saud around 1901–1914, granting Unaizah “total sovereignty” (likely meaning administrative autonomy) under the Al Saud’s overarching rule. This is a clear instance of a treaty with a regional ruling family. yourprovidedtext

Hashemites (Hejaz): Ibn Saud signed the Treaty of Jeddah (1927) with the British, which indirectly affected the Hashemites by recognizing Ibn Saud’s sovereignty over the Hejaz after his conquest and the Hashemite defeat in 1924–1925. While this treaty was primarily with the British, it formalized Ibn Saud’s control over the Hejaz, supplanting the Hashemite ruling family. There is no evidence of a direct treaty with the Hashemites themselves, as their defeat was military rather than diplomatic.

Al Idrisi (Asir): Ibn Saud signed a treaty with the Al Idrisi family in 1926, known as the Treaty of Mecca, which integrated Asir into his domain while allowing the Al Idrisi limited local authority. This treaty followed negotiations after Ibn Saud’s forces entered Asir, securing the region by 1930.

Al Rashid (Ha’il): There is no record of a formal treaty with the Al Rashid family. Ibn Saud defeated them in 1921, annexing Jabal Shammar through conquest rather than negotiation. The Al Rashid were Ottoman-backed rivals, and their defeat was a military victory, not a diplomatic agreement.

Banu Khalid, Ajman, and Shammar: Ibn Saud frequently used marriage alliances rather than formal treaties to secure the loyalty of these tribal groups. For example, he married into the Banu Khalid, Ajman, and Shammar tribes to consolidate power. There are no documented formal treaties with these groups as distinct ruling families, though informal agreements or pledges of allegiance likely occurred during his conquests. The lack of centralized governance in these tribes makes formal treaties less common.

Other Tribal Leaders: Ibn Saud signed numerous agreements with smaller tribal leaders across Najd, Al-Qassim, and other regions to secure their loyalty, often through the Ikhwan (a religious-military brotherhood) or direct negotiations. For instance, the Treaty of Taif (1934) with Yemen resolved border disputes but also involved local tribal leaders in the region, though these were not prominent ruling families like the Al-Sulaim or Al Idrisi. The exact number of such agreements with minor leaders is not well-documented, as many were informal or subsumed under broader unification efforts.

Exact Numbers

Number of Regional Ruling Families: Based on historical evidence, there were 7 major regional ruling families with significant control over defined territories: Al-Sulaim (Unaizah), Al Rashid (Ha’il), Hashemites (Hejaz), Banu Khalid (Al-Ahsa), Ajman, Shammar, and Al Idrisi (Asir). Smaller tribal leaders existed, but they are not typically classified as ruling families due to their decentralized authority.

Number of Treaties Signed by Ibn Saud with Regional Ruling Families: Ibn Saud signed formal treaties with 2 regional ruling families:

Al-Sulaim in Unaizah (as per your text, circa 1901–1914). yourprovidedtext

Al Idrisi in Asir (Treaty of Mecca, 1926).

Other regional families, such as the Al Rashid and Hashemites, were defeated militarily rather than through treaties, and tribes like Banu Khalid, Ajman, and Shammar were integrated through marriages or informal agreements rather than documented treaties. The Treaty of Jeddah (1927) with the British and the Treaty of Taif (1934) with Yemen involved regional dynamics but were not direct treaties with ruling families.

Notes and Limitations

The exact number of minor tribal leaders or families is difficult to quantify due to the decentralized nature of pre-1932 Arabia. Historical records focus on major families like those listed above, but smaller groups may have existed without clear documentation.

Ibn Saud’s unification strategy often relied on conquest or marriage alliances rather than formal treaties, especially with tribes like Banu Khalid, Ajman, and Shammar. This reduces the number of formal treaties compared to the number of regional powers.

If you’re seeking information on less prominent families or specific treaties not covered here, please provide additional details, and I can refine the search or analysis.

If you have further questions or need clarification on specific families or treaties, let me know!

[homeinterior012]

Cow Hides: The Versatile, Natural Choice for Interiors and Design

Cow hides have long been appreciated for their durability, texture, and natural beauty, making them an ideal material for a variety of uses in interior design and decor. From luxurious rugs to chic furniture accents, cow hides offer a unique aesthetic that can elevate any space. Whether you are designing a cozy living room or a modern office, incorporating cow hide into your decor can add warmth, texture, and a touch of rustic charm. In this blog, we will explore the many ways cow hides can be used, their benefits, and why they continue to be a popular choice in design.

What Are Cow Hides?

Cow hides are the tanned and processed skins of cows that are typically used for upholstery, flooring, and decorative items. Unlike synthetic materials, cow hides are natural products, known for their unique textures and patterns. No two cow hides are alike, which adds an individualistic charm to any space where they are used.

Cow hides are often sourced from the leather industry, where they are a byproduct of meat production. After they are carefully tanned and dyed, they are transformed into durable and functional design elements. With proper care, cow hide products can last for many years, providing both beauty and practicality.

Benefits of Cow Hides in Interior Design

Natural Aesthetic

One of the most compelling reasons to incorporate cow hides into your home or office design is their ability to create a natural, earthy ambiance. Their rich, organic textures and patterns add a tactile dimension to any room. The mix of colors—ranging from bold blacks and whites to more subtle browns, grays, and tans—blends seamlessly with a variety of decor styles, from rustic and country to contemporary and minimalist.

Durability

Cow hides are known for their incredible strength and resilience. When treated and tanned properly, they become a durable, long-lasting material that can withstand heavy foot traffic. This makes them an excellent choice for furniture, such as chairs, sofas, or ottomans, as well as for rugs and throws in high-traffic areas. Their durability also extends to resistance against wear and tear, stains, and moisture, which makes them easy to maintain.

Versatility in Design

Cow hides are incredibly versatile in terms of design applications. They can be used in various forms, including rugs, upholstery for furniture, wall coverings, throw pillows, and even as unique art pieces. Due to their natural variation in color and pattern, they add an interesting, one-of-a-kind touch to any piece they adorn. Whether you’re looking for a bold accent piece or a subtle neutral addition to your home or office, cow hides can fulfill many design needs.

Sustainability

As a natural, biodegradable material, cow hides are a more sustainable option compared to synthetic materials that may take hundreds of years to break down. Moreover, because cow hides are often sourced as a byproduct of the meat industry, they help reduce waste by repurposing materials that would otherwise be discarded. This makes cow hides an eco-friendly choice for those looking to incorporate natural and sustainable materials into their design.

Warmth and Comfort

Cow hide rugs, throws, and upholstered furniture add warmth and texture to any space. The unique feel of cow hide underfoot is soft yet firm, making it a comfortable and inviting material. Whether you use a cow hide rug in your living room or a cow hide-covered chair in your office, the tactile and visual warmth that this material adds can create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

Common Uses for Cow Hides in Design

Cow Hide Rugs

One of the most popular uses for cow hides in interior design is as rugs. Cowhide rugs are available in a variety of sizes and designs, from traditional whole hides to smaller, patchwork-style options. A cowhide rug can make a bold statement in a living room, bedroom, or hallway. They are easy to clean and maintain, making them ideal for both homes and businesses. Their natural texture creates visual interest and adds depth to any floor.

Upholstery

Cow hides are also commonly used for furniture upholstery. Whether it’s a chair, sofa, or ottoman, cowhide-covered furniture exudes luxury and sophistication while maintaining a natural, rustic appeal. Upholstered cowhide furniture is ideal for creating a bold design statement, especially in spaces that blend modern and rustic styles.

Pillows and Throws

Smaller pieces of cow hide can be repurposed into pillows or throws, which can add subtle elegance and warmth to your home. A few well-placed cowhide pillows on a couch or bed can elevate the look of a room and create an inviting atmosphere. Cowhide throws also make beautiful accent pieces on sofas or chairs, offering both style and comfort.

Wall Art and Decor

For those looking for an unusual and striking decor piece, cow hides can be used as wall coverings or as a backdrop for custom art installations. Their natural patterns and textures make them an eye-catching feature in any room, whether displayed in a home or office. Cowhide wall art can add an element of rustic charm or modern flair, depending on how it is framed or displayed.

How to Care for Cow Hides

To ensure the longevity of your cowhide products, proper care and maintenance are essential. Here are some tips:

Regular Cleaning: Gently vacuum the surface to remove dirt and debris. You can also use a soft brush to lift any matted fibers.

Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the colors to fade. Keep cowhide items out of direct sunlight whenever possible.

Spot Cleaning: If you spill something on a cowhide rug or upholstery, clean it immediately with a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the hide.

Professional Cleaning: For deep cleaning, especially with larger items like rugs, it's best to consult with a professional cleaner who specializes in cowhide.

Conclusion

Cow hides Abu Dhabi are a timeless, versatile, and sustainable material that adds a unique touch to any interior. Whether used as a rug, upholstery, or accent piece, cowhide enhances the visual and tactile experience of a space while offering durability and longevity. Its natural beauty, combined with its practical benefits, makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to create a stylish, functional, and comfortable environment. By incorporating cow hides into your decor, you bring a piece of nature indoors while making a statement in design.

[bestbeds-nz]

Patchwork Storage Ottoman

One of our perennial best-sellers the Patchwork boasts a cacophony of colour is a true statement piece full of texture and character. 

Explore Ottoman NZ.

[gullethead]

so the foundation of a world religion rests on a bedrock of two major things: colonization and missionary impulse. i dont think there would have been as big a foundation or impetus for overseas colonization by europe without christianity and islam for a huge array of reasons. first and foremost, if you think about it, the catholic church was a HUGELY stabilizing force in europe after the collapse of the roman empire; lots of the kingdoms and empires of europe derived legitimacy with their people from christianity, and the missionary aspect of christianity spread it across europe very rapidly, so all of these cultures that used to have vastly different religious traditions and beliefs suddenly had a common ground that facilitated diplomacy. without christianity, you have hellenic syncretism across the northern mediterranean, celtic traditions in northern gaul and britain, germanic beliefs north of the rhine and up through scandinavia, and a huge jumble of pantheons east of that. the polities that arose during the medieval period could still find some common ground, sure, but itd be much more patchwork

christianity as that unifying force is a large part of what allowed these colonizing nations - spain, france, portugal, britain, the netherlands - to become as large as they were, it provided the basis for the holy roman empire to exist and eventually for the hapsburgs to come into power, and it was the entire reason for the crusades and the Christian Struggle against the Muhammadean Threat that was most present in spain and southeastern europe. which, even further, the absence of islam means no umayyads conquering spain, no abbasids or ottomans providing a barrier to european trade across the middle east. the closest thing to a unifying force in the middle east and eastern europe might have ended up being the mongols, but they wouldnt have had any particular beef with europeans because theres no christian-muslim divide to drive it, and i assume without that, european gold would have been more than enough to maintain silk road trading relations, meaning nobody has a real driving force to look for an alternative

what this means is that contact between eurasia and the americas remains sporadic for much longer. in fact, it might have ended up being china that initiated lasting contact, as they ran fairly close to having exploratory missions that went that direction (see zheng he, chinese explorer most of a century before columbus). it feels impossible to tell whether they would have colonized in a similar way to europeans, given their already massive resource base at home and the lack of interest the government at large showed in exploration, but its possible they would have ended up doing it.

to that end, i think its possible the nearest thing to a world religion might have ended up being buddhism, if some kind of new religion didnt establish itself in the meantime. it's one of the few religions outside of christianity and islam to strongly proselytize and, in some branches, has central structures that might have created a parallel to the papacy and clergy. it's also heavily syncretic, spreading as it did between india, southeast asia, china, etc, so i can see it being adopted nominally in various places, even if itd be unrecognizable to others.

besides that, i cant really see a religion spreading across the world the same way christianity and islam did, just because most religions dont think about themselves the same way christianity and islam do. theyre just completely different beasts from the older traditions they replaced

One question that's been buzzing around my head recently: if Abrahamic religions never really took off outside the Levant, would any other group of faiths have taken their place as major world religion?

If Judaism never left the Levant we probably wouldnt have Christianity or Islam. So the dominant religion of Europe would probably be something derived from Roman polytheism, and over in the near east it would be Zoroastrianism.

[zhejiangliantonghome]

Patchwork pet bed LT-U6058

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[greatblueheronfurniture]

Weaving Comfort and Style with GBHF Patchwork Ottomans

Experience both comfort and creativity with our delightful range of patchwork ottomans. These unique pieces seamlessly weave together a variety of vibrant fabrics, adding a distinct touch to your home decor. Whether you're seeking a cozy footrest or an attention-grabbing seat, our patchwork ottomans fulfill both roles effortlessly. These ottomans add a touch of boho flair to any space. Elevate your decor with their one-of-a-kind style. Visit - https://greatblueheronfurniture.com/

[whencyclopedia]

War of the Second Coalition

The War of the Second Coalition (1798-1802), part of the broader French Revolutionary Wars, was the second attempt by an alliance of major European powers to defeat Revolutionary France. The Second Coalition, which included Russia, Austria, Great Britain, Naples, Portugal, and the Ottoman Empire, was defeated by the French Republic, and hostilities ended with the Treaty of Amiens in 1802.

Origins: Victory of the Great Nation

With the signing of the Treaty of Campo Formio on 17 October 1797, the War of the First Coalition (1792-1797) finally came to an end. Born out of tensions surrounding the French Revolution (1789-1799), the war had seen the infant French Republic take on most of the great powers of Europe, including Austria, Prussia, Great Britain, and Spain, while simultaneously dealing with several counter-revolutionary rebellions within its borders. Through draconian efforts such as mass conscription and the bloodshed of the Reign of Terror, the French Republic managed not only to survive the existential threat posed by these enemies, but to triumph; by 1796, French armies had won a succession of victories in the Netherlands, on the Rhine, and in Italy. The frustrated nations of the First Coalition gradually dropped out of the war until October 1797, when Austria made peace at Campo Formio and left Great Britain as the only power to remain at war with France.

The victory left the French Republic as the preeminent power in Western Europe, rivaled only by Britain itself. France had annexed Belgium, Luxembourg, and the west bank of the Rhine and indirectly ruled Holland and northern Italy through a collection of client states known as 'sister republics'. For the French, who had succeeded in their war goals to both preserve their Revolution and expand it into Europe, this was not just a victory but also an indicator of the greatness of the French people. Around this time, the French increasingly referred to themselves as "the Great Nation", a state superior to all others and unencumbered by international rules. This rise in nationalism coincided with a sharp turn back into extremist Jacobinism; the Coup of 18 Fructidor (4 September 1797) purged the Republic's government, called the French Directory, of its conservative and royalist members, many of whom were exiled to French Guiana. This neo-Jacobin resurgence resulted in a new wave of violence against priests and political opponents and reignited the disdain for the old regime monarchies of Europe. The new Fructidorian Directory promptly broke off preliminary peace talks with Britain and began to make plans for further territorial expansion.

At the Congress of Rastatt, which met in November 1797 to finalize the peace between France and the Holy Roman Empire, the first signs of France's aggressive post-war foreign policy became apparent. Despite Holy Roman Emperor Francis II's promise to the Imperial Diet that the empire would retain its "complete integrity", the French still compelled the German states to cede all lands on the west bank of the Rhine. The French also stipulated that German princes who lost land from the deal could be compensated by the secularization of ecclesiastical states, dealing a further blow to the unity of the empire.

The nations of Europe, unnerved by France's belligerent attitude at Rastatt, were further alarmed in January 1798, when a French-backed coup overthrew the government of Switzerland, which was replaced with a French puppet state called the Helvetic Republic. Meanwhile, a riot in Rome that led to the death of a French general was used as the pretext for the French invasion of the Papal States on 15 February 1798. The Eternal City was integrated into the patchwork of French client states as the Roman Republic, and Pope Pius VI was taken prisoner. Though the "Great Nation" was now at the center of a zone of influence that stretched in an almost unbroken line from Amsterdam to Rome, its appetite for conquest remained unsatisfied.

Continue reading...

[somediyprojects]

DIY Patchwork Chair

Project by Jane Schouten: 

jane is the proud owner of a vintage pierre paulin oyster chair, but was unhappy with the state of its thread-bare original upholstery. so she decided to customize and personalize its upholstery using decorative cut-outs, crocheted flowers and embroidery. with a large collection of vintage blankets to draw from, jane created a patchwork-style upholstery base, on top of which she added the details mentioned above. while we certainly all at the level of upholstering and embroidery that jane is, after examining her photos for a few days i felt strongly that the essence of this project was something that most clever diy-ers could tackle. if you have some leftover fabric, old blankets or maybe even old shirts, you could create a similar patchwork background to reupholster your favorite seat or stool. so, i hope jane’s project will be as inspiring for you as it was for me (or at least provide some much-needed chair eye-candy).

Jane’s Reupholstered Patchwork Chair

You will need:

-a chair, an ottoman or anything else you want to re-upholster (for those with less upholstery experience we’d suggest something small like a stool or ottoman) -vintage blankets or fabric (those with a quilted or thicker texture work best) -scissors -pins -power stapler (optional, but very helpful) -flowers or other interesting objects cut out of fabric -crocheted flowers (click here and here for tutorials) -embroidery thread and needle (click here for a great embroidery tutorial)

1. Remove any existing upholstery cleanly from your chair or ottoman. You will use this to make a pattern for your new upholstery pattern. Using the old fabric as a pattern, cut your new upholstery pattern out of your blanket. (If you have more than one blanket you want to use, sew them together before cutting the pattern- see photo below). If you’re unfamiliar with the process click here for an illustrated look at cutting a new pattern from an old upholstery piece.

2. Gather any cut-fabric shapes or flowers you’ve created (there is a tutorial for creating these in the supply list above) and arrange them on the new cut-out blanket in a pattern or arrangement that you like. Pin them in place and then hand-stitch them onto the blanket.

3. At this point Jane added decorative embroidery and embroidered text to the chair (see photo below), but you can either skip this step if you’re not comfortable with embroidery, or follow the simple embroidery tutorials in the supply list above to add some personal embroidery details to the blanket upholstery.

4. Now you should have your blanket upholstery cut to size, decorated with cut-out or crocheted decorative details and embellished with any embroidery you like- so you’re ready to attach it to the chair. Jane used a power-stapler to reattach her form (which was cut to match the old pattern so you shouldn’t have much overlapping fabric to cut) but you can also stitch the new upholstery to the chair if you’re an experienced sewer or upholsterer. If you’re like me (D*S) you’ll want to get a strong stapler and attach (wherever the staples will be less visible) your new fabric that way. This method works best on a small chair seat, stool or ottoman where there are good places to attach and staple that won’t be visible. If you’d like to watch a fun video tutorial with D*S DIY editors Derek and Lauren, click here (this will show you how to attach and staple new fabric onto a chair. Just scroll down to the “re-upholster a chair” video)

5. Voila! You have a newly upholstered chair/ottoman/stool. Have a seat and enjoy your the results of your hard work.

[layla963]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Natori Pj set 2 Pc.NWT.