Day 99 : Ginocchiera

Day 99 : Ginocchiera

Today's button is based on one that is on a late 16th century Italian Smock in the MET. The metal thread I've chosen isn't quite a match for the type used in the original, but fairly close. 

I am currently, finally, putting together my next book, The Button Maker Vol 1, which will focus on textile buttons up to the 17th century. Lockdown has meant I can keep some odd hours and knuckle down - and this is one that will be included.

I currently do not have internet access so am uploading this from my phone. It's a bit difficult to add links, so I will fix it later. But I have used Au Ver a Soie threads - the silk is Sole Ovale and the metal thread is Bourdon.

Size: (length) 25mm / 1" / 40L

Day 98: Whorl

Day 98: Whorl

Today's button is another "Lincolnshire" button ;)

My problem is, I get on a roll. I really liked the surface created, and so thought I would try some dimensional embroidery. And I have discovered recently that orange isn't that popular a colour. I really like orange! I don't think there is a colour I don't like to be fair. I once knew someone who hated green... 

I've used No 12 perle and a No 39 ring. 

Size  24mm / 15⁄16th" / 38L

Day 97 : Blackthorn

Day 97: Blackthorn

Today's button is based on a pretty vintage set in my collection. The set includes little buttons and a larger button brooch (with a safety pin). I've no idea when it was made, but the card that everything has been stitched to is certainly dog-eared (what a funny expression - dogs have lovely ears!). The interesting thing about the originals is that they are not Dorset buttons, nor are they zwirnknopfes (you can read more about the differences here). In fact, the ring hasn't been covered with blanket stitches at all! I do wish I knew where these were made! Perhaps I'll need to call them Lincolnshire buttons, as that's where we are....

I've used a No 39 ring and perle cotton No 12. And lots of French knots this time, instead of my usual colonial knots.

Size: 24mm / 15⁄16th" / 38L