Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Beaded Coneflower

Beaded Coneflower Post Card
4" x 6"
 
I worked on the beading for several weeks since I can only do a little bit at a time because of arthritis in my hands.  I feel it was not worth the effort.  I think it is too heavily beaded.  This was a trial in preparation for a larger quilt.  Since it is too much beading, how else can I finish the flower center?  Comments very much appreciated.
 
This is seventy, number 19
 
For more information on "seventy", please see the post below.
 

11 comments:

Cedar Ridge Studio said...

I am like you I thinnk that beading because of my arthritus is not worth it.

KAM said...

Ann
I believe that the beading would be more successful for you if the beads were scattered more rather than so linear....just my view of beading.
Kristin

Andy said...

OMG this is GORGEOUS! Thanks for posting it!

Lynn K. said...

What size beads did you use? A smaller size might make the look more delicate. However, the smaller the bead, the harder it is to stitch. I'm also trying to picture coneflowers in my mind. How about lots of stick-like stamens with a tiny bead at the top of each? Just a couple thoughts. In general, I like the flower; it makes a great post card.
Lynn Kunz

Kathy said...

Are you married to the idea of beading? I am happier when using an eclectic mix of beads, but I think you could easily use a mix of beads and embroidery, such as French knots and beads scattered rather than so intense can sometimes give you the effect without all the work!

Kathy said...

Are you married to the idea of beading? I am happier when using an eclectic mix of beads, but I think you could easily use a mix of beads and embroidery, such as French knots and beads scattered rather than so intense can sometimes give you the effect without all the work!

Janet Hartje said...

I did a coneflower with French knots but it may be even harder for arthritic hands. It did take me longer than anticipated. I really like the finished look though.

Lisa Chin said...

I think the amount of beads is okay, it's the SIZE of the beads that are too much. And perhaps the beads should all be so solid in color - a variegation of beads?

Alison Schwabe said...

Ditch the beads. Too big, too shiny =-overwhelming. The flower beneath is beautiful, the lines of stitch sensuous. Do some random very small french knots, or a bit of seed stitch areas - not entirely over that area - just enough to suggest that the area is all that texture - and I think you'll be far happier with the result.

Lyric said...

Yes - it is the size/scale and the value contrast of the beads that is overwhelming the soft and delicate flower. The beads are big, shiny, and a very deep black and red. The rest of the flower is a softer black and pink.

I don't think the beads are a terrible idea and they could work very well in another application.

Or - instead of undoing the whole thing - take some paint or watercolor pencils in red or bright pink and intensify the petals and use black ink or paint to intensify the black background.

It has potential to be a lovely piece - and is something well learned either way.

Judy Warner said...

Would you consider free motion quilting small circles?