Elizabethan Holly Leaf Garland (continued)

The second leaf on the holly garland has been worked in Au Ver a Soie Perlee (#491).  The button-hole edge around the leaf was worked in Gobelins #2125.

Couched #371 gold wire used to create a vein.


The actual size of the leaf is 1-1/2" long.  I intend to add beads to represent holly berries, but haven't decided how I'll do this yet.

The second leaf was worked onto the DMC Memory Thread without cutting the first leaf off.  I'll progress in this way to create a garland.






The second photo shows the beginning of the first leaf, which was worked in Gilt Sylke Twist.

Using a contrasting color sewing thread, the DMC Memory Thread is couched over the holly leaf drawing.  Next, the center of the motif is filled in with corded detached buttonhole.  Both leaves were created in this way.


Someone asked me what I plan to do with the garland.  One idea is to wrap it around the base of a tall candlestick, molded to appear as if it's climbing up the candlestick.  Another use would be to wrap it around the handle of a basket.  Start at the bottom of the basket handle and wrap it almost half way up the handle; just enough to add color, but not so much that it interferes with holding the basket.  The garland could also be fashioned into a tiny wreath.  Or couched onto a black velvet scarf for a unique accessory.  The possibilities are nearly endless....