leaves and branch brooches

I've received multiple e-mails about the branch brooch I was wearing with my new ruffle neck shirt. I decided the easiest way to answer them all was right here. Last week my children and I were walking in the woods and examining branches for little buds that are the first sign of spring leaves. Even though we knew it was far too early in these Northern parts, we were hopeful. Not yet, I kept saying to both them and myself. So, of course, I decided to create leaves... why wait! We're always gathering sticks and branches so we had plenty on hand. A forgotten scrap of light green leather had been patiently waiting for attention in my studio. I simply cut some leaf shapes and pinched the bottoms together with a couple stitches of thread. Instant leaf!

Next, the leaf got placed on a little stick and was wrapped multiple times with green thread. I had planned on just placing it on the mantle, but couldn't stop holding it. A lace ribbon wrapped around the bottom made the perfect spot to attach a safety pin. So that's how I "grew" a branch brooch. I think this is my new Vernal Equinox accessory!

There are two other branch ideas that I'm loving right here and over here.

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Now, I'm obsessed with leaves! I can't stop thinking about them. Felt works equally well, by the way... here' a sneak peek at something I'm working on.