This summer my daughter and I were having a great timer wandering through several second-hand stores (Just Junk’in as as we call it…), in Creston, BC. While she was on the hunt for things to stuff babies into for newborn photos, I was rummaging for more exciting stuff…anything I could “up-cycle”into a wearable piece. Through the dust and cobwebs, I opened a rusty old drawer and could hardly contain myself. I found 5 old filigree escutcheons–just a fancy word for an ornamental or protective plate, as for a keyhole. Didn’t want the Seller to know I thought I’d found Fort Knox so acted like I was doing him a big favour taking ALL of them off his hands. It worked-got a discount and NO TAX!! Hallelujah!

After attaching the plate to a brass cuff I’d stamped and antiqued, I just couldn’t resist adding a final touch. This old single rhinestone seemed perfect! Hope you think so too!

Please scoot over to my store and take a look at the rest of my available pieces, while you’re here, please leave a comment!

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Mystics feel that poppies can be talismans for good luck in love, money and health. Because these flowers can be both lucky and respectful, they make fantastic gifts for someone who is in transition in their life. I had no idea about any of this while making this cuff…honestly. I just happen to love poppies-they bring back memories of my Ukrainian Grandmother who grew them in profusion behind the barn. They were gigantic to my 5 year old eyes! She used the seeds to adorn the wonderful breads she made and my own Mom is well known for her unbelievably luscious poppy seed chiffon cakes. You might say they run in the family–so I’ve always had a warm spot in my hear for poppies, all kinds in every color.

I love this brass poppy filigree , no small wonder it has made it’s way onto one of my pieces. I kept this design fairly simple (well-MY idea of “simple”). The brass cuff is acid-etched with a lace motif and a bit of stamped silver solder. The poppy was embellished with a few vintage rhinestones and then it was done. Promise. I am not adding any dangles or any more bling…

Please scoot over to my store and take a look at the rest of my available pieces, while you’re here, please leave a comment!