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R E A D O N L I N E
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STEP 1
Twist one end of each of two 18-inch
chenille stems together, end to end, to
create a longer chenille stem approximately
33 inches in length. Repeat this step to
create a second long chenille stem. Twist
the two long chenille stems together to
create a figure-eight-patterned "chain."
STEP 2
Tie a length of No. 3-width ribbon
to the last loop on each end of the
chenille-stem chain. These will be
used to tie the finished design around
the cap part of the mortarboard hat.
STEP 3
Glue individual Israeli Ruscus leaves, end to
end and overlapping slightly, to one side of
the chenille-stem chain by applying liquid
floral adhesive to the chenille stems and
pressing the leaves atop them. This will
camouflage the chenille-stem mechanic
and create a smooth backside for the design.
STEP 4
Flip the chenille-stem chain over so that the leaves
are against the surface of your workspace. Attach
botanicals to the "topside" of the chenille-stem chain
by applying a drop of liquid floral adhesive to both
the chenille stem and the base of each botanical.
Hold each item in place until the adhesive becomes
tacky. Choose a selection of botanicals in different
sizes and textures, and consider grouping like
botanicals together to create a stronger focal point.
STEP 5
Once all of the botanicals are added and the chenille-stem mechanic is
completely covered, add nonbotanical accents. I created coils of aluminum
wire to introduce a touch of gold into the design.
STEP 6
Once the graduate has donned her cap, instruct
customers to snugly tie the flower design onto the cap,
just under the mortarboard, using the ribbons on each
end of the design.
Step by Step
