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Crowning Glories - Artworks

Crowning Glories hat

Mammillaria Prolifera

by Jacky

Media: Velour, chiffon, satin, machine embroidery, pintucks, beading.

The cactus caught my eye because it had flowers and berry-like shapes which looked like they would make it a self-pollinating plant - male and female forms - intriguing. I worked the hat from my sketches of the cactus, and it has come out quite true to the plant. I think visiting the cactus house has renewed my interest in flowers.

I tried lots of different techniques before making the hat. I selected pintucks as one of my main techniques as I think the texture they create is outstanding. I chose to work with velour to give a sumptuous feel - luxury fabrics and ornamentation (beads, eyelets and embroidery) gave me the look I wanted.

The effect of the hat was to produce a warm glow in me. I am surprised at how well all the techniques go together - the varied beading is complementary.

Through the construction of the hat, I have learned that it is worthwhile to persevere, to have the courage to make changes. I found it worth going slowly, even though the work has been painstaking at times - the results speak for themselves.

 

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