Embroidery project for christmas , part 1 of 3

After my good experience with the viking hat ,I wish to do another small project that will of course become a christmas gift.Last time I didn't used a hoop for a practical reason , this time I did.

My hoop , made of wood buy from Amazon for only 5$ .For a first attempt and did not want to invest too much I think it fill the need very well.The truth is I prefer to invest in different type of thread.

I bind the hoop but realize I must do it with only one .Otherwise after I place the fabric I cannot adjust the hoop.

I choose a velvet cotton I had , not a very good quality I'm afraid.Binding or not , you can see the trace of the hoop.It's worst without the binding.I put a layer of muslin under it and fix it with a temporary embroidery glue.

In progress.The center is an acrylic jewel surronded by tiny seed true freshwater pearl.I start stitching  the petals with a silver soie ovale , a flat and shiny silk thread.