It was quite the shock to go to Scotland last month and learn about midges (pernicious minuscule biting flies?). We had midge hats, thank god, courtesy of one of our more intrepid guests — but they looked rather silly in photos. Camping gear is always a touch silly, even if I do think these “midge trousers” have a somewhat gossamer effect? (Dropping mosquito repellent wipes here; not healthy, not safe, I love them.)
It got me thinking, why aren’t more brands helping you avoid bugs in style? If you search “mosquito” on World of Interiors, there are only four results.1 (Truly odd for the speciality kings!) A single article on a house in Deià had the goods: The couple has strung “canopies of indigo-dyed Mallorquín linen and emerald silk antique mosquito net over dix-huitieme cane beds.”
Searching for antique mosquito nets on Etsy brought up a satisfying array of results. The most promising seemed to be antique Japanese mosquito nets made from hemp. I enjoyed this blog about the aristocratic history of mosquito nets.
The best options are, of course, philosophical. The artist Do-Ho Suh is a go-to inspiration. He makes intricate structures out of mosquito nets — entire “translucent fabric homes” and structures. They’re beyond beautiful. If I was a collector, I’d buy one and… live in it. Very unprofessional impulse.
The mosquito section of the Maison Empereur site is a more logical place to start. Citronella spiral candles give me goosebumps of pleasure!
Pomodoro Technique Freaks
If you solved your procrastination with the Pomodoro technique, may I recommend some European kitchen timers:
TFA Dostmann. Trust the Germans!
Zassenhaus!! So serious.
Why is this one so satisfying? Maybe graphic design.