Velvet Christmas Stocking

Yes, it is after Christmas but sometimes when I set aside seasonal items to pursue at a more appropriate time of year, I forget about them or can't remember where I've put them. This kit was for a Christmas stocking with coordinating ornaments created by French designer odille bailloeul.

I love the brilliant colors and the very gypsy-like vibe of the work of this designer. I first learned about odile bailloeoul at the Road2CA show I attended in January of 2018. She has an online boutique of her own but I have bought her designs also from Renaissance Ribbons. One of the ribbons she designed shows a gypsy caravan wagon and I wonder if this is the an homage to a colorful, vivacious, flamboyant gypsy background. The moniker "gypsy" can be construed in a negative sense, such as in the song made famous by Cher; but I take only the best feelings of joyfulness and gay abandon from the gypsy-associated symbol. Gypsy to me means happy, fun-loving, and free-spirited. 

 

This kit is made from a heavy 100% polyester velvet, luxurious to the touch and striking for the eyes. It whipped up quickly. I admit, I also feel a bit smug that the directions were in French and I still could follow them. The self-cuff at the top came from a clever way to double and fold over the edge. The shocking lime fringe was added afterward. The ball detail at the pointy toe makes me giggle.