If you take a look closer, you’ll see this is more than just a pretty cuff, it’s a statement - one that, depending on how you’re feeling, may evoke different emotions, ones that may prompt deeper exploration.

How do you feel about being… different?

Are you the button? One of the shell beads? Are you one of the beads peeking out from under the veil? Are you in the center or out, along the edges? Alone, or in a group?

What sets you apart? What do you have in common? Where are you in this picture?

While some may stand out more than others, we are all unique, each and every one of us. Even the shell beads, similar at first glance, are slightly different from one another in their patterning - some striped, some wavy, some monochrome, others rainbow, which we can only see when the light shines on them. In a crowd, everyone seems similar until they’re in the spotlight.

This textile art cuff is part of a new series of wearable art that I’m currently exploring in my personal stitch meditations, created from a combination of upcycled, thrifted and vintage elements. With my pieces, I am always conscientious of the materials I use, opting either to repurpose old materials or, when including newer materials, aiming for natural over manmade. This cuff is stitched together (entirely by hand) from a vintage linen napkin, lace, saree silk and found fabric scraps (most likely given to me at some point), using a combination of vintage threads and 100% mulberry silk. There are shell beads representing the crowd, with a vintage button (and czech glass micro seed beads for eyes) for the one seemingly standing out from the crowd, with added seed stitch embroidery for texture. The clasp is made of a vintage navy button and hand stitched leather strap to create a loop. There’s also a tiny, secret “pocket” at the very top, enough to maybe stick a few extra bills in there “just in case,” a note from a loved one you’d like to keep close, or maybe a favorite quote or affirmation.

This cuff will fit up to a 7” wrist (so please have the wearer measure their wrist before purchasing). Hand wash/spot clean only if necessary, do not iron.