a new start

while my stocking was being painted i decided to start a new project over the weekend. this new orleans water meter ornament posed a challenge at first. it's simple in design and doesn't need anything too decorative or ornate. but i knew i didn't want to basketweave the background. i ended up choosing a horizontal bargello wave stitch to echo the "water". i think it gives off a nice visual element and makes it look more dimensional.

i'm working the bargello stitch over 3 with 4 plies of mandarin floss. once i complete the background i will go back and stitch the remaining silver elements. the moon and stars represent new orleans' other famous nickname, "the crescent city" originating from the shape of the mississippi river and how it bends around the city. 

and just in case you're curious...here's what the real meter box covers look like. 

these are coveted pieces of history in our city, and the design is seen all over from t-shirts, jewelry, tote bags, door mats to tattoos. to discourage stealing, some less attractive versions were introduced around town, but you can still find many of the originals lining the streets!

if interested in this design, you can purchase here