I recommend that before you start, you read through the instructions so that you can make notes about any options there may be or changes that you would like to make, questions that you would like to ask, and about any alternative ways of doing things.

Be sure to handle your pieces very carefully. The majority of the cut edges in this project are on the bias, which means that they will stretch out of shape very easily. In carrying my pieces from my worktable to my sewing machine, I slide them first onto a manila folder (or book or magazine), and carry them that way. If I need to pick up a piece, I pick it up at a point where the fabric is on the straight or cross-wise grain, to avoid stretching. I do not pick up the pieces by the edge. This may all sound way too picky…but it can save you a lot of disappointment and headaches later on.

*100% cotton flannel and batting are recommended, as polyester will wick moisture, causing pins and needles to rust.

**Approximately 5 yards of 7mm silk ribbon in various colors was used to embellish the Pansy Fan silk print in this project, with approximately 2 yards of 4mm silk ribbon for leaves. Note that variations in ribbon add to the appeal of the embellishment. This is a great opportunity to use up scraps from your "ribbon compost bin." Making a petal, for example, from two slightly different shades of plain ribbon, gives the illusion of hand dyed ribbon having been used.

***I learned about using an elastic ponytail holder from Marie Alton, who designed a chatelaine pattern that I made. To learn more about Marie's work, her Chatelaine pattern, and her upcoming website, please email Marie at sredeluxe@home.com.