A Valentine

For the first time ever, I've finished my husband's valentine before February 14. It's almost finished. I have to make a label for the back. I'll do that this morning. But the front is done. Wanna see? It measures about 6.5" x 4.5"

You can click on it to check the detail.

My friends tell me I've been spending too much time hanging out at Lisa's blog. Actually, it's Allie who has truly inspired me. Both of their blogs make me wish that I had crazy quilting tendencies, but I don't, not really. I don't mind embroidery, I just don't know how to use it.

But I can attach beads. Remember last week's class with Thom Atkins? I put that lesson into action. The new skill/knowledge that I focused on was what he called the "double pico border." hmmm. In my mind, it should be "double picot," like tricot, but who am I to argue with the teacher?

Anyway, back to the valentine. It is made from scraps from my wedding dress: silk satin and lace. No, I did not cut up my dress. I made my dress. We paid so much for the fabric, I couldn't just throw it away. I knew I'd eventually have a use for it. It only took 29 years...

I photo-transferred the picture onto a Printed Treasures sheet, then hand-appliqued it to the silk. That is not an easy thing to do. It takes perseverance. Then I added beads.

Most of the beads were leftover from "Cascading Crystal Kaweah," but not the pearls. See the freshwater pearls in the center of the flowers on the lace? My mom gave them to me to use in my quilting. My mom passed away in May 2000. It took almost 10 years to find the right project for them as well. It pays to be a packrat.

And I guess that's about it. Hope you like the valentine. I hope HE likes the valentine. Oh, and if you're interested in the valentines I've previously given him, you can click here. Last year's valentine is here. Enjoy!!