Project Priorities & Challenges:a modern twist to Rajasthani mirror work!

For my final project, I’m diving headfirst into a modern take on traditional Rajasthani mirror work. It’s not just about the glam…this piece is rooted in nostalgia, creativity, and the chaos of learning a new skill under pressure. Below are the five things I’m aiming for, and the five things that might make me cry into my embroidery hoop.

Top 5 things I want my project to look like, feel like, and do (aka how I’ll know it worked):

1. A modern twist on tradition – I want it to reflect the charm of Rajasthani mirror work but with a contemporary edge that makes it feel fresh and wearable today.

2. Something that feels like “home” – The colors, the sparkle, the embroidery—all of it should feel like a warm nod to celebrations back home, but in a way I can wear here, just because I want to.

3. Actually wearable – Not just for photos or display. It should feel good on, move well, and not fall apart if I sit down too quickly.

4. Handmade with heart (and steady-ish hands) – I’ll know it’s a success if the stitching holds up, the chamki doesn’t pop off mid-walk, and I can say, “Yeah, I made this!” without flinching.

5. Confidence booster – My goal is to come out of this project feeling more capable—not just in sewing, but in committing to a design and seeing it through.

Top 5 constraints I’m working around :

1. Time – The calendar is not on my side, and sewing doesn’t always go at the pace I think it will. (Spoiler: it never does.)

2. Skill level – I’m learning as I go, and while I have some basics thanks to my mom, I’ve never taken on a whole outfit before—this is my biggest sewing challenge yet.

3. Budget – Materials had to come through some creative logistics—i.e., my mom’s care package from India with fabric tucked between masala packets.

4. Tool access – I’m borrowing a sewing machine and dress form from a relative in Denver. So far, no technical meltdowns, but we’ll see!

5. Design indecision – Picking the final look was harder than expected. I kept switching between designs until I just had to say: okay, this one. (For now.)