Mary Beale wreath

Hi.  Sadness seems to be the only emotion I'm capable of right now so this post is to show the steps of the piped finish and not much else.  Once again, please don't think I'm showing this because I know more than you.  It's more of a reference for me and others can point out flaws in my methods and teach me other ways.  This was done on 28 count and perfectly fits an 8 inch round frame.  I may look for one with an easel back to set in a display, to see if I prefer it outlined with a dark wood. 
I purchased piping instead of making my own.  A plate was used to create a template an inch larger than the design.  Holding the linen and template to light, I centered and pinned, then outlined in chalk pencil on the right side.  Medium fusible interfacing was used on both front and backing, but the front was cut smaller since I didn't want it in the seam with the piping.

Holding the raw edge of the piping to the outline, I sewed against the piping with a zipper foot and basting stitch.  As with any piping work, I opened the tape and cut out an inch of the cord, turned under the raw edge, cut and inserted the other end to meet inside.  Folded the open tape over, pulled the raw edges to tighten around the inserted piece and sewed the overlapped end. 

I turned the seam allowance edges to the back and checked to see if the design was centered and made any adjustments to the piping. The backing was lined up and sewn to the front following the stitching line I created when attaching the piping.

I cut the thickest quilt batting to fit, and cut the mylar at least a 1/4" smaller than the seam lines with a hole in the center for sewing the button.  Originally I cut it the same as the batting, but when the batting puffed the piece, the mylar became too tight.  I rolled the mylar to fit inside, then slid the batting onto each side of it and adjusted by inserting a ruler to smooth it out. 

I didn't like the covered button because it didn't show up at all so I just looked in my button box and found a large very odd dark brownish green that went well with the colors in the design.  That may change.  I didn't want the hanger the same as the piping and will use a heavy twisted hemp that matches the linen.  I sewed a muslin prototype before deciding on creating a center hole for a true wreath, but it was just too small and piping was too crowded.  I left the bottom area open for turning and the mylar really allows a nice curved finish, same as I use on the pears. 

I also received a wonderful stitched gift in the mail and will show you next time.  I haven't figured out the fringe application yet (prior post), and Leanna was kind enough to offer the Larkshead Knot as a possibility.  Sure looks like it, but this seems to be a continuous stitch.  I hope to figure it out soon because I'm liking it more and more.  That's it for now.

Thanks for visiting.