Thanks for all the comments, folks!
In re: the machine -- I weeded out the collection before coming to Canada, getting down to my three favourite machines. I've mentioned two; the third is a Willcox & Gibbs chainstitch machine. They made them from 1865 to 1944, I think, and I don't think they changed the design much at all. It's a dinosaur and it's incredibly fun to watch it go.
I'm actually thinking about a new Janome treadle head. Comes with reverse and buttonhole and several specialty stitches. I've got a spare base kicking around for it.
I got confident, and I had other fabric -- a dangerous combination!
So I made a red one this morning...

You can guess I like bold colours! 
I now know some of the areas where I need to pay particular attention on the next one.
Tess, if you can find 2.25-inch black grosgrain, I might have you get me some. I'm using two pieces of 1.5-inch grosgrain stitched together because it's the widest I can find here. Makes the edging a little funky.
:ootd:
Dr. Charles A. Hays
The Kilted Perfesser
Laird in Residence, Blathering-at-the-Lectern
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