The only thing I changed from the original was the use of two pieces of "bright check purl" joining the scrolls at the bottom. The original only used one, and I thought it looked lonely with just one!
This is an example of trying a new technique. I had not done any goldwork before trying this, though some previous projects had called for some bits of metal (not metallic) threads.
While many of you may be familiar with the distinction, I can hear a few of you thinking - what's the difference between metal and metallic threads?
- Essentially, metallic threads are primarily synthetic materials, like polyester, made to shine like metal. You are probably very familiar with metallic threads. They come in forms like Kreinik braids, Rainbow Gallery Treasure Braid, DMC metallic floss, etc.
- To be labeled as metal, threads must contain some percentage of real metal. There are different grades of metal threads, depending on the amount of metal content.
If you're curious about goldwork, there are a few designers online who offer beginner's kits. One word of caution - I have not seen these kits or instructions, so cannot say anything about their completeness, but these ladies are well-respected teachers, so they must be doing something right! Check out the goldwork sections of the websites of:
- Alison Cole (make sure you go to the bottom of the page to see all 7 pages!)
- Tanja Berlin
Wow! I didn't know that! I admit I use just wool and wool blends, so I haven't even tried to use metallic threads, not to mention metal ones.
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