Cuff Love

October was full of travel.  I always take some type of handwork along when I fly. After visiting the Gilded Lily in Fullerton, CA, which I mentioned here, I made a little kit to work on. 

First, I visited The Wool Lady in Temecula, CA and bought some felted wool and beautiful embroidery threads. There was no plan or pattern, I just decided to "wing" it. That was quite a challenge for me. I've worked on this project sporadically just trying to design as I go. I The color combination of these three ribbons with the added Victorian buttons was inspiring and a interesting beginning. I tried different things, like old pieces of jewelry and beads. I tried different stitches. One thing I learned is that velvet is not the best material to embroider. Simplicity was key.  

I thought the linear element of the ribbons needed the contrast of a flowing vine design.

Of course I didn't plan on the closure until after I had finished the edges.  I looked and looked for brass snaps.  Evidently you can only buy HUGE ones in the United States.  I purchased the perfect size on Etsy from a woman in Turkey.  I finally received them yesterday and they were perfect. Then at the last minute I added a few beads.  I love the final result and even put together a new outfit out of my closet to coordinate with it.  That was a fun surprise!  

You can't see my shoes, they were the cutest part.