What is The Global Genes Project and what are 7000 Bracelets of Hope for?
The Global Genes Project exists to raise awareness and support for the more than 30 million people affected by rare diseases. There are currently over 7,000 rare diseases identified, and 75% of those affected are children. With the 7000 Bracelets Campaign, the Children's Rare Disease Network gives artists and crafters an opportunity to lovingly share their creative gifts with families who have a child suffering with a rare disease.
I used my needle felting machine to add wool, silk and cheese cloth to a bit of denim from a pair of jeans. As I am not sure who will be receiving this bracelet, I did not want the piece to be overly feminine. I added the orange seed beads for some hits of contrasting color. I lined the piece with some lovely hand dyed blue cotton fabric from Africa ( so no wool will be touching the skin, as I did not want the wearer to have any discomfort from the fiber content) and put on a sturdy black snap for a closure.
I wanted to combine all sorts of different fibers, beads and bits to make this piece as it represents so very many different people expressing their care and compassion for those who struggle with these rare diseases. I want the recipient to feel the love and care that other's who they do not know , are working to help them win their battles. I want them to know that they are not alone, nor forgotten. This little piece of a bracelet put together from so many different bits , represents all of the hope coming to them from all over the world.
Now I am off to put this piece in a lovely little box with a personal note of care and hope and send it off to the Global Genes Project in Dana Point CA.
There are many other artists participating in this terrific project and below you will find links to all of their blogs where they will be sharing their bracelet creations. please take some time to visit the blogs and leave a comment to let the artists know that you have hopped by for a quick peek at their creations. Eye candy is sure to abound and inspiration will be on display everywhere!!! Have fun !!
