Just a quick note to add this picture of a padded silk velvet heart embellished with a gorgeous piece of vintage beading, half of an Edwardian buckle and a photo pin. I wear it on my coat lapel or as the centerpiece on a vintage lace colored blouse. I made it years ago and just found it in a drawer recently. Actually, it is inspiring me to get out the old lace, etc., and make another one or two. Easy enough - just find (or make) a heart pattern the size and shape that suits you. Cut two hearts out of a piece of fabric (soft velvet is nice, but you can use any fabric - I think a faded vintage print would be wonderful, or turn a piece wrong side out to show the much more faded side). Sew it up with wrong sides together - this gives you a little ledge to attach your edge trimming. Then cut a slit in the back and push in a little bit of stuffing. Don't make it too full or stiff - you want it to be soft. Then get in your vintage stash drawer and pull out your very best stuff. Drape it, dangle it, collage it - just have a good time until it pleases your eye. I always like to have a focal piece, so I usually finish with a brooch or a particularly lovely piece of bric-a-brac. Just somewhere for your eye to rest. The possibilities are endless and the results can be stunning.
