The tree outside is almost completely void of leaves, the sky is gray, and all of the heavy blankets have been brought out for winter. With summer now completely behind us, I have been trying to think warm thoughts.
My musings encouraged me to return to a project that has been half finished and long neglected for some time: a summery, watery dragonfly collar that doesn't deserve to be shelved any longer.
"Purple Dragonfly" from AllPosters.com
The Beads:
The shimmery purple seed beads were the original inspiration to create a dragonfly. They are perfect for a beautiful insect's wings. To create the scene, blue iris mix, brown silver-lined mix and green iris mix become a marshy wonderland. These 10o Czech glass beads are great for embroidery.
The Beadwork:
This embroidered collar is done in back stitch, with one side in spiral rope. Although the design seems over-sized, it isn't too overpowering when worn, and would make a nice dramatic statement with a black top. The toggle is made using peyote stitch, and the entire piece is stitched on simple felt. For the edges, beads were stitched on in rows of loops, rather than the traditional picot edging. This helps to increase the feel of flowing water and wavy grasses that the necklace represents.
