The first design came about in May 2004. I was visiting The Harbour Gallery when one of it’s directors, Pat Robson asked me if I would be able to embroider a rattlesnake on the back of a jacket.
David had once owned a jacket with such a design, but it had been stolen whilst he was traveling and he wanted to replace it.
Knowing of David’s good reputation and always keen to practice my skills and take on a challenge, of course I said, ‘yes’.
David provided the jacket and I got to work, designing the rattlesnake from a series of photographs.
Initially I drew out the design onto calico and then, working on a frame, applied fragments of old crocheted lace to piece the snake together. The main colour was added with fabric paint which I also used on the satin covered rattle. When finished, seventy hours later, the snake was carefully cut out and attached to the back of the coat with tiny stitches. Finally I added gemstones, rocaille beads and hundreds of french knots. The snake's tongue was sewn directly onto the coat as were defining lines to give a relief effect to its face.
David was delighted with the jacket. He still wears it frequently and when I looked at it recently I was pleased to see that it showed no sign of wear. It is important to me that my work should be strong, fit for purpose and good value for money.