velvet embossing

[jeseca.livejournal.com]

i think that this wreath: http://www.marthastewart.com/page.jhtml?type=product&id=product1573&site=&rsc= is really neat.

i would love to make a similiar one for my in-laws the only thing is (a) i don't particularly want to spend $79 + price of stamps (i wouldn't mind spending that on them if i had it to spend, but i don't. hopefully that price tag is avoidable) and (b) my father in law is color blind except to blues, so i would want to make it with shades of blue and silver or blues and golds.

(a) has anyone actually embossed velvet w/stamps, etc. before? any tips?
(b) i read that using velvet made with mostly rayon is best but i am having a hard time finding it. most of it is polyester and i read that should be avoided.

p.s.
i made "surprise balls" as my wedding favors (filled w/candy, glass hearts, and a marble magnet) and everyone loved them. i will post as soon as i have photos...

back to cramming for midterms...