Although the very first trio of beads that we saw two years ago was inspired by a photograph, my intention was always to create palettes using everyday objects that come in three distinct colors. Once in awhile I deviated from this rule to try out fun new things; and now it’s time to change it up again, but this time for good. I had to really stretch to find a three-color palette for our last experiment, and I couldn’t come up with anything at all for last month. I’m at a loss for palette inspiration, but I’m not about to let this segment go!
Instead of using an outside object to start palettes from, I’m going to select a different accent bead or focal each month, and add beads in two more colors that contrast or complement the main beads. I’m looking forward to exploring different color approaches for a single element, and I hope the ideas are just as inspiring with this new direction!
For our first attempt, I chose some beads that I absolutely love, but haven’t had a chance to use yet. You may have seen these blue-brown Picasso coins standing in for Pantone’s sodalite blue back in January. The variegated finish is absolutely gorgeous, and makes the perfect challenge for bead trios.
At the risk of being a little predictable, the first color I reached for was dark beige in 8/o seed beads. My favorite colors aside, it does go well with both the blue and brown, and leaves lots of room for a bold contrast. I added some sassy lustered orange coral seed beads to create a Desert Sunset - warm and cool at the same time.
Next I grabbed some red lined blue seed beads, which complement the two-tone look of the Czech coins. Unlike the first palette, there isn’t much room here for additional colors, so I played it safe and added another double finish seed bead, though a little more subtle. The black lined garnet AB 6/o’s keep up with the two-tone theme, and play along with the other dark reds and blues like a bowl of Pomegranates and Blueberries.
Last, but not least, we have Blue Oasis. I couldn’t resist the fresh, vibrant contrast of transparent lemon lime against the rustic-looking coins. These beads always stand out in a crowd, thanks to the abundance of light that they gather up, enhancing whatever beads they are paired with. Transparent aqua seed beads bring up the rear and tie everything together.
What kinds of beads and colors would you combine with these coins?
Copyright 2012 Inspirational Beading
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Dark tarnished brass and really dark blue. I think a pretty good steampunk piece could be made with that; the discs look kind of 'aged'.
ReplyDeleteOr bright metallic gold and lapis blue.
Maybe an opaque olive-green and metallic reddish purple. I'm glad you didn't decide to stop doing triads. I love pretty colours. [=
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