RSN Goldwork Day 7(home work):Grapes

Once all the chip work was finished, it was time to stitch the gentle curved lines that run along the outside of the crosier. Prior to getting to this phase of the work, I had hand stitched tiny stitches to show where the curved lengths of pearl purl would go next to the main body of the crosier. Initially the idea was to use only pearl purl #2 and I did start with only that thread covering the beautiful curves. However, as you might be able to see from the photo above, the single line of the pearl purl #2 wasn't weighty enough next to the solid mass of gold on the crosier. After looking at it for a while (and talking to my teacher), I decided to add the outside row of pearl purl #1 fine.As you can see, it looks much better in terms of balance and - equally as important - I love the combination of textures!Just a note here about the change in color of the photographs: I took the photos in a conservatory and sometimes the sun was shining brightly and at other times it was bright but overcast. I tried to adjust the color of the silk to represent the deep green color that's correct but have had limited success!After doing the outside curved lines, it was time to do the little curlicue and the grapes.The grapes were done using #6 gilt spangles. They are attached with tiny pieces of bright check purl. I attached them without the aid of any pattern on the silk which was easy with the original in front of me. One of the most fun things was layering them so they looked like a bunch of grapes.I put some spangles into my velvet lined box along with some tiny pieces of cut bright check pearl purl. Then I brought my needle up from the back and picked up one spangle with the end of my needle.Next I picked up a piece of bright check pearl purl. I then took my needle through to the back of the fabric, going through the hole in the spangle again. The tiny length of the bright check pearl purl held the spangle onto the fabric.It didn't take long and by now my heart was beating pretty fast as I could see the end in sight. As I put the last grape in, I had a feeling of amazing pride. I looked at this thing I had made and couldn't believe it was something I'd produced. I also felt deflated and a bit sad to be finished.Without a doubt this has been my favorite project: my very, very favorite. I am hooked on metal thread embroidery. Already I have two more ideas for metal thread embroidery pieces, both also using appliqued silk.Next time I'll show you photos of the complete piece and talk a little about how the piece will be assessed.Then...on to new (and old) creations!