I started off with some Lacey’s Stiff Stuff as the bead embroidery foundation. I dyed it to a suitable shade of black.
I had a beautiful African turquoise cabochon which I had stashed away, waiting for the right moment of creativity to spark. I sewed different semi precious stones around the cabochon, choosing muted tones that would not take away from the cabochon.
I used my usual 6lb test Berkley Fireline in smoke colour and a 12/0 size beading needle. I also added fresh water pearls in a refreshing cool colour; once again in keeping with the muted tones. I added aged Picasso seed beads and tiny Czech seed beads to finish off the design.
I added the brooch backing to the back of the cut out embroidery. When the glue had dried and set for a day, I added a matching piece of soft black Ultrasuede to finish it. I then embroidered a finishing line of brick stitch which is my favourite border for my bead embroidery. The end result is Woodland Brooch; a lovely softer colour palette to remind me of the softer light to be enjoyed during autumn in the Australian bush.
