Day 178 : Lily of the Valley

Day 178 : Lily of the Valley .

Today's button is actually inspired by a stunning button by my friend (and artist) Yoko in Japan. She created the most beautiful iris button. I was going to actually make a tulip (perhaps tonight!) but I saw the beads and thought I would give them a try. I like the effect, and Lily of the Valley is one of my favourite flowers. My button is no where as lovely as hers, but I'll keep practising. 

I've used a No 39 ring, and cotton perle No 12

Size : 24mm / just under 1" / 38L

Day 178 : Shine

Day 178 : Shine .

Today's button uses a really old, traditional technique with some modern thread. I'm afraid the photograph doesn't do the thread justice - it is one of the DMC light effects (I am currently working on a kit using this), and it has all sorts of beautiful colours running through it. It really is best in person.

I've just done one of these buttons with very expensive gilt thread as a sample for a large group I will be doing as a commission. It will eventually end up as uniform decorations being made by Hawthorne & Heaney embroidery specialists in London. As I said, they are very traditional, these days you tend to find them on tassels most often. 

Size: 10mm / 9⁄16" / 22L

Day 177 : Snake

Day 177 : Snake .

Today's button is an idea I've had for a long time - it isn't quite what I wanted, but there is at least one reason for that. This is made with a two-person, fine silk fingerloop braid, the "Thick lace bordered" . A 15th century (at least) pattern, and one that can be found in my book, Tak V Bowes Departed.

My intention was to add Powertex or Paverpol to fully harden the shape after I had stitched it all into place. However, this braid was worked by Elizabeth (my co-author) and I, and I really did not want to ruin it as she has now passed away. I can't replace it after all. 

The eyes are tiny colonial knots in a metal thread, but I reckon teeny beads might be better. 

Size: 12mm / 1⁄2" / 18L