They open up so many possibilities for the embroiderer to imitate and add them
to their craft items.
I have created these 2 dragonflies with
Hand Dyed Silk Ribbons and have allowed the colours to be the highlight, along with the
bright coloured beads for the body.
You may desire a more subtle appearance in which case a softer tone Silk Ribbon could be used.
1st: Gather together some seed beads, bugle beads.
Use these to create the body. I have added a second smaller
bead to the eyes. These beads are mostly 11/0 to be in proportion
to the size of the wings and have used 7 mm. ribbon.
2nd: Add the wings, starting with the top 2 and then the bottom pair.
Take the ribbon through under the body keeping them even and in
proportion to the size of the body.
3rd: Add some features as desired, a few French Knots at the tips as
shown or embroidery stitches to imitate the markings. These will also
help to keep the wings fixed to the fabric as it is such a long Ribbon Stitch.
Butterflies:
If you do not feel confident at doing these free hand, do a simple sketch to help keep it in proportion. Before you begin, decide on the size, the body shape, whether you would like to use the same size
Silk Ribbon ( 7mm. for the top wings and 4 mm. for the lower are my preference.)
The colours are numerous, so go wild or match it to your embroidery.
A Google Image search on Butterflies will give you loads of inspiration.
1st. Stitch the body with a basic straight / satin stitch.
(My preference is Kreinik Thread, which adds some bling and reflection of light, plus I just love the colours available) then add 2 stitches for the antenna.
2nd. Start with the wings at the top, doing a ribbon stitch and then a corresponding one on the other side. Work your way down to the tail.
3rd. Add any decoration for the markings on the wings. ( French Knots - silk threads or metallic, beads, sequins).
4th. If a side version add a few stitches for the legs.
Just a sample of some different ways to create these.
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