I learned about Nicolaus Day on 6th December after I moved to Germany. Such a nice tradition: children leave their shoes outside the bedroom door on Saint Nicolaus Eve in hope that Saint Nicolaus will leave them a gift…
But even if you are not a child, it is still wonderful to believe in miracles and receive a present!
I was a regular visitor in the local sewing shop full of beautiful fabrics, threads, sewing machines – everything you need for your sewing project. One day they announced a competition for the best handmade Nicolaus boot, and I decided to participate. After studying the traditional designs I was not very inspired: Nicolaus boots are normally flat with a primitive shape and differ only in the decoration. My idea was to create a three-dimensional boot with an unusual rolled-up toe, and with simple colour scheme. I decided to add decorations of edelweiss flowers. I chose a medium thickness felt, red and white, so they could be sewn on the machine. The first patterns were made from the paper in a small format. After the right proportions were achieved, I made full size details, all twice (outer parts and lining). To help the boot hold its three dimensional shape, I folded a construction out of wire. This was later incorporated in all seams inside between the shell and cover, positioned in special tunnels. For the edelweiss I chose much thinner felt, cut two layers of stars and fixed them on the boot with a few beads. A final touch was small bell on the toe. Done!
To my surprise, my boot got a lot of compliments, and won the third price (a red rucksack). After the competition my boot continues its magical life, but this is a topic for the next amazing story…
Assia Brill 