Buying garments and accessories today is so ordinary. You can walk in a mall and see several women with the same item and their style is all so similar. Talk about cookie-cutter. I really think that is why I sew and machine embroider. While my style may not suit yours, it is unique. I can craft it just the way I want and the best thing is that my garments fit my particular body measurements. You cannot get that in your local department store or even at a high-end retailer. They must accommodate the shape of the majority.

Pashmina scarves at one time were quite unique and not very many women could afford to buy them, but today it is a different story. Amazingly, in New York City, the street vendors sell them for as little as five dollars. Sure they may not be the highest quality as the ones of old, but they are still beautiful. While I am so very thankful that this is the case and that I can own not just one, but many, it does pose a bit of a problem when you want to be individualistic.

However, in five minutes, the embroidery machine can transform a common pashmina scarf into something truly one-of-a-kind.

*Swirly Initials Font by Anna Bove Embroidery*

Anna Bove Embroidery has a full selection of machine embroidery fonts. Her specialty is beautiful older styles like Victorian and art deco, but this swirl initial is quite modern and appeals to the younger generation. My college daughter loves it and I have had several people ask for it once they saw it.

The thread can make all the difference in how the design looks. Here it is quite subtle. The thread is a silver metallic by Floriani.

It really pops with a contrasting color such as black or like this navy blue with gold metallic on a white silk scarf. It all depends upon the individual's personality (especially if it is a gift), what it will be worn with and its purpose - warmth, attention grabber, subtle color, etc.

Always be as unique as you are!